Congratulations MichaelEdward!!

Carol

Carol

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Hearty congratulations to Mike for earning his 1st degree Black Belt in December!

:partyon::partyon::partyon::partyon:

Great job Mike! Care to post a bit about what the test is like or is that not for public disclosure?
 
Congratulations Mike!
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Congrats!!!:ultracool :ultracool :ultracool :ultracool
 
Well done, Michael–what a great milestone to have reached!
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Thank you, each and all.

On December 9th, Mr. Hogan tested and passed five candidates at our school. Prior to the test date, all of the candidates had to complete a quantity of rigorous physical activities; calisthenics, kenpo basics, continuous sparring and fighting rounds. We also had to prepare a personal form and a black belt thesis. There was, further, a written test.

On the test date, Mr. Hogan had all of us run all of the requirements for out belt level. For me, that was 151 self defense techniques, 11 sets and 7 forms. Mr. Hogan focused quite a bit on the forms. We each ran our complete series of forms several times throughout the test. The test itself was about five hours of activity. Everyone left with bruises.

It certainly hasn't been a secret. I updated my profile on the 9th ;)

But, for all my strong opinions, I try to be a humble man. I feel personally rewarded from my hard work. And, because I see this as a step in the over-used metaphor of the 'journey', I guess I didn't see the need to ring my own bell, don'tcha know. :shrug:

Again ... thank you ...

And, further, Kudos to the others at the test:
  • Dee H. - 3rd Degree Black Belt
  • Jim M. - 3rd Degree Black Belt
  • Jan R. - 2nd Degree Black Belt
  • Martin E. - 1st Degree Black Belt
Lastly, a special recognition .... Sharon M. - 3rd Degree Black Belt - Posthumous. :asian: Sharon was one of my teachers at the school. She had gone up the belt chart with Dee and Jim. She passed on at the age of 61, late last winter. She had all of the material for her 3rd black, and would have excelled at this test. My memories of her include her thumping me when I deserved it, and her patience in working with my on the Bo Staff Set.

Thank you with sincerity,

Mike Atkinson
 
Congrats on achieving such a great milestone and best wishes for the many that still lie ahead!
I am sorry to hear of your loss of your teacher.
 
Congratulations, Michael! Now you get to start all over!
 
Way to go, Michael! So, did you really think it would be kept a secret? Just kidding! Again- congratulations!
 
Congrats...Outstanding...
 
Congratulations Michael!!!

:partyon::partyon::partyon::partyon:

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