Right: Yun Jung Taekwondo student Michael Nguyen limbers up as he prepares to kick through a wooden board and become a black belt. Above: Liem Phan shows serious determination as he kicks through his wooden target.By Glen Atwell
FLYING kicks, lightning arms and the sound of breaking wooden boards caused a stir of excitement in Springvale on Saturday afternoon.
The students from the Yun Jung Taekwondo School put on a public display on the corner of Heatherton and Springvale Road, as the group underwent their annual assessment and end-of-year celebrations.
All active students had the chance to go up a grade and progress to a higher belt level.
Yoshiko Kera from the Yun Jung School said there were five students who made the progression from red to the esteemed black belt.
“They all did really well,” he said. “Our head instructor, Yun Jung Bang, was impressed with all the students and the effort they put in.”
More than 100 are in taekwondo training at the Yun Jung school, with students given the opportunity to compete in tournaments throughout the year.
“There are three tournaments in Victoria and students have the chance to take part,” Yoshiko said.
The board-breaking prowess of the Yun Jung students drew a crowd to the demonstration as onlookers let out a collective gasp every time a bare foot or fist smashed through a wooden board. The Yun Jung Taekwondo School, at 233 Springvale Road, welcomes anyone wanting to try their hand, or foot, at taekwondo.
“It’s a great sport and very enjoyable,” Yoshiko said.
The centre is open five days a week.
