He has been learning TKD since he was 4 years old; during that time he has always trained with the Chand Institute under the expert guidance of Mr. Yogi Chand, 5 Dan.
He has progressed from the very first white belt to an impressive black tag, just one more grading away from black belt. A fine achievement especially when you consider he is just 9 years old!
Over the years Alex has built up a collection of medals and awards that are weighing down the mantel piece at home, they include:
- Gold in the 2005 team event at the Battle Royale
- Bronze for sparring in the World Kup at Birmingham Indoor Arena in 2007
- Bronze for sparring at the 2008 Imperial British Championship
- Gold for patterns and silver for sparring at the 2009 Chand Institute Championship
- Awards for the toughest junior 2006 and best junior male in 2008
Where will it end? Alex has ambitions to compete for his country and would love a crack at getting his black belt hopefully sometime in 2010.
His preferred discipline is sparring, so when he tells me he loves TKD because of the friends he makes, I am not sure it adds up! But that is one of the amazing qualities of TKD; contact with your opponent in sparring is skilful and respectful. After the bout, they just walk off talking and laughing a credit to the sport and the students.
Alex uses massage and breathing techniques taught to him by Body health UK to help control his nerves on grading days. If he continues to use these techniques and continues his dedication to the sport of TKD I am sure he will realize his goal and collect that all important black belt. It will be a proud day for him and his mum and dad Sarah and Mark, good luck Alex |
