Traveled with Andy and Joey Arduini, Karina Tolentino and Jill McVaugh. We represented Cranberry ATA in the District Championships bringing together 13 states and their respective champions. On a very hot 90 plus degree day, indoors in a non A/C controlled building we gathered with all the best of the best in the North East. My competitive ring did not start till after 2:00 pm making it one hot & long day. In the Black Belt ring were two familiar faces I have competed against before from PA and Virginia. New faces that made it through were from New Jersey. I faced the NJ State Champ in Sparring and Combat CBME. I did compete in Forms and weapons. Forms, Shim Jun, lets say I have much improving to do. Weapons, Ssahng Jeol Bong was my first time in a tournament with the weapon. I had not even tested with it for rank advancement. Sparring, I placed third and lets say I could and should have done better and I am very much looking forward to my next opportunity.
Here it is; Combat Sparring with a Bahng Mahng Ee I took District Champion. I am very proud of this as I felt very strong and particularly fast that day. The competition was at a very high level. The heat was my friend. I took up Taekwondo to help with my competitive cycling. In this case it was my cycling strength and skills that helped me gain the advantage win the title.
