May 2009 - The 3rd annual New England Regional APTSDF Black Belt Camp took place from May 15th-17th, 2009 at the picturesque YMCA Camp Jewell in the mountains of Northwestern Connecticut at Colebrook. This now being the 3rd annual event, we in the New England region have come to expect nothing short of an inspirational, motivational, and highly educational experience. These expectations were met and surpassed by far. Over 90 participants of all ages with ranks from red belt to Senior Masters joined with Grandmaster St. James for a spectacular weekend.  Friday evening’s events included our regional Black Belt test, with 23 participants testing for their Cho Dan (1st degree) or E Dan (2nd degree) Black Belt. Testing was very successful and it was evident early on that our test candidates had come prepared. Special congratulations go out to Haley McClure of the Southbury Academy of Karate and to Chad Zawisza of Apple Valley Family Karate for attaining the honor of “Best of Test” for children and adults respectively. A general workout led by some of our 3rd Dans took place early Friday evening for those campers not testing. Leadership presentations by Grandmaster St. James and Master Becker later Friday evening allowed participants to learn about the foundations of Mastery and the importance of maximizing one’s personal performance.
 Dan Test CandidatesSaturday’s events started at 7 a.m. with jogging, Capoeira, and Chi Gong / meditation. Throughout the event-filled day, sessions included detailed instruction in hyung (forms), weaponry, Aikido, sparring, and advanced self-defense. For our younger campers, time was carved out for some fun extracurricular activities that included archery, rock-climbing, and canoeing. Following dinner, presentations on Certified Instructor Training, principles of breaking barriers, and Moo Do philosophy were offered to all participants. Time was also set aside to review the important principles of tournament judging.
 Sunday’s events included a two hour Master’s workout in the morning led by Grandmaster St. James and attended by all of the New England Regional Masters. Instructional sessions led by our Regional Masters soon followed and the entire weekend’s activities culminated with group hyungs to the drum beat led by Grandmaster St. James.
 The energy and the spirit of Tang Soo Do was quite evident throughout this Black Belt Camp. Just ask Michaela Narus of Apple Valley Family Karate who received the honor of "Most Spirited" student. Participants came from all over the New England region and well beyond. Instruction was given and received, but just as importantly, ideas were shared and friendships were strengthened. The history, culture, and general philosophies of Tang Soo Do were embodied during this time, as was the richness and the fervency of this ancient martial art. Sincerest thanks go out to Grandmaster St. James, Senior Masters Rivera, Klacko, and Sattler, and Masters Becker, Fernandez, and Duva. It is often said that to share one’s wisdom with enthusiasm and desire is the sign of a truly selfless teacher.
Tang Soo!
     Submitted by Dr. Anil Mathew - Cho Dan Bo |
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