Black Belt grading Report 2010 – Steve Harper

The 8am start on the Sunday saw quite a few sore bodies back on the floor. I had woken in the middle of the night with a cramp running down the inside of my hamstring. OUCH! We were all quite fatigued Sunday morning, our thoughts while we worked on our step sparring routines were with our seniors still on the floor performing 3^rd and 4^th degree patterns. I found my core was quite stiff and sore as well as hamstrings and quads. Po Eun sitting stances had been worked on for quite a while the day before! After the 3^rd and 4^th degree patterns were completed we ran though some step sparring and breaking. We finished off the 2 day session with a fitness test. Nothing could prepare any of us for this. Our heart rates were maxed out multiple times!

The entire grading was a physical and mental challenge. Everyone was thoroughly exhausted but each of us certainly earnt our promotion. As Master Daher had told us during the grading we were the first (but not the last!) to earn a black belt promotion over two days. Il Shim is the only organisation to run black belt grading over two days. The experience was something each of us will remember for the rest of our lives. Master Daher has promised that the next black belt grading will be even harder. I am already looking forward to my next grading.

Thanks to Master Daher in his guidance and advice over my years of training. I would also like to thank my brother Paul and sister in law Michelle. Finally, I would also like to thank my wife Catherine for her support and my children Amber (especially for being my step sparring partner!), Rose and Zavier. Also a special mention to my constant canine companion when I get up to train at 5.45am five days a week! Thanks Hannah!

Recovery after the grading consisted of relaxing in a swimming pool, well earnt I believe!