The Porco's Karate Academy in Sandy Hook had a productive few weeks with the promotion of its newest Black Belt member and its participation in the Edward Vargas Tang Soo Do Youth Challenge in Meriden.
The Porcoâs Karate Academy in Sandy Hook had a productive few weeks with the promotion of its newest Black Belt member and its participation in the Edward Vargas Tang Soo Do Youth Challenge in Meriden.
Bonnie Lundblad, 16, a sophomore at Newtown High School, recently completed her three-hour test in Meriden for First Degree Black Belt. The initial phase of the test was an intensive written portion covering topics such as martial arts history, philosophy, Korean language and overall knowledge of martial arts techniques. The second phase of testing covered personal endurance and fitness. Third phase consisted of complete martial arts knowledge, including hand and foot techniques, jumping ability, all forms, partner work, tactical self-defense, weapons, free sparring and board breaking.
Miss Lundblad is an assistant instructor at Porcoâs Karate Academy and an assistant instructor with the Porcoâs karate program through the Parks and Recreation Department. When she isnât training, she is a member of the Newtown High School cross country team.
Meanwhile, Porco students competed at the Edward Vargas Tang Soo Do Youth Challenge last month in Meriden. Students, ages 3 to 17, from beginner to Black Belt, competed in three events â board breaking, forms and sparring. Students from all over New England participated with all proceeds going to the Connecticut Childrensâ Medical Center.
Jacob Baron, Amelia Schill, Angella Kousidis, Yanni Kousidis and Matthew Guinee competed in the orange belt division and all received participation medals. In the intermediate rank division, under 12, Daniel Badiola took second in forms; Nicholas Badiola took third in breaking, third in sparring and third in forms; and Christina Badiola took third in breaking and third in sparring.