Martial Arts: Ross passes Tae Kwon Do test with flying colour: black

Sep 17 2009 by Eric MacKinnon, West Lothian Courier

ROSS BOYD has punched and kicked his way into the record books as one of the youngest ever martial artists in the UK to gain a black belt in the Korean art of Tae Kwon Do.

The 10-year-old from Murieston was tested in Livingston by a panel of experienced black belts one of whom is the world’s only female black belt master, 8th degree.

And alongside all the punches, strikes, sparring, kicks and jumping kicks - collectively known as patterns - Ross also had to master the required Korean phrases and pass a written exam.

After the award Ross, who is a pupil at the Robin Blair School of Tae Kwon Do in Muiriston, said: “I took up the sport when I was five and I really love it. It teaches you dedication and discipline and gives you lots of confidence.

“It’s great to get my black belt and I dream one day of being a Grand Master”.

Robin Blair, himself a black belt 5th degree, says: “I’ve known 11-year-olds to get their black belt but it’s very unusual for a 10-year-old to make the grade.

“Such an achievement takes lots of hard work and dedication and every credit to Ross on his success.

“Ross is a model student who gives 100% effort. His enthusiasm is an inspiration to my younger students.”

If you would like to know more about the sport of Tae Kwon Do, you can contact Robin on 01501 733 542.