May 25, 2008
Submitted by Master George Vitale.
Grandmaster Hwang Kwang Sung, one of the first Taekwon-Do
students to ever be promoted to IX Dan black belt by the Founder, General Choi
Hong Hi conducted a seminar in the Bronx New York on Sunday May 25, 2008. The
training took place over the American Holiday weekend now referred to as
Memorial Day. The holiday was originally called Decoration Day. It was a time
when the graves of soldiers who died in the American Civil War were decorated
with flowers, honoring their ultimate sacrifice. It was fitting that the seminar
was held in New York, as it was the first State to officially recognize the
holiday back in 1873.
Since the training was being held over this Memorial Day weekend, Grandmaster
Hwang started off by highlighting this point. He explained the reason why
Americans hold this Holiday. He then asked the participants to also take a
moment to remember Taekwon-Do's Founder, a Korean Army 2 Star Major-General &
former Ambassador. Grandmaster Hwang reminded those in attendance that it was
almost 6 years since the passing of General Choi, who died on June 15, 2002.
Grandmaster Hwang then started to share General Choi's Taekwon-Do with all those
that were there for the class. As usual, he tailored the training to the level
of the students, giving something to all those who attended. The trainees
included beginner level to master instructor, with 2 Masters taking the course,
New Yorker George Vitale & the host Master Miguel Reyes. Grandmaster Hwang
emphasized that anyone can learn, no matter the age or rank. He gave a very
poignant example that even he, as a 7th Degree master, turned to General Choi to
learn his original Taekwon-Do. Those students who did take the time to attend
this special training were very impressed with his knowledge, ability, humility
& dedication in spreading not his Taekwon-Do, but that of the Founder.
Grandmaster Hwang travels world-wide teaching & sharing General Choi's
Taekwon-Do with all that are interested, regardless of their affiliation. Please
check this website for future training opportunities with one of the few 9th
Degree Grandmasters to be promoted to the Art's highest level.
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| Hands on instruction from the grandmaster | Clapping for Reem of Brooklyn, NY | The masters with the most important group, the parents of the students | Grand Master Hwang & the Black Belts |
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| Group Photo | Demo Team Member Mr. Jose Ramos gets fine tuned | The children listening intently |