Last Saturday I tested for black stripe (1st geup) and today(technically yesterday) I was awarded my 1st geup belt. This test was important to me because I had to do a series of board breaks. It had been challenging to do these breaks when we practiced them in class. I failed to break them multiple times. Thanks to the many supportive members of MT I was able to attain useful information and use that to help me better understand board breaking. Saturday I was able to break all 4 boards with minimal difficulty. I would like to thank everyone who takes the time to answer any questions I may have on this forum. I really enjoy the insight, and I do appreciate the input.