In January 1994, my journey into UK Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan commenced under the expert guidance of Master Hedges Sa Bom Nim. Over the years, I achieved significant milestones in my martial arts journey, each reflecting my commitment and dedication:
- 1st Dan on January 16, 2001, in Horwich with Hedges Sa Bom Nim (5th Dan)
- 2nd Dan on November 24, 2003, in Preston with Hedges Sa Bom Nim (5th Dan)
- Kyo Sa (Instructor) on November 24, 2003, in Preston with Grand Master H.C Hwang (9th Dan), Master Yap (6th Dan), Master Hedges (5th Dan), and Master Kidd (5th Dan)
- 3rd Dan on November 28, 2006, in Preston with Hedges Sa Bom Nim (5th Dan)
- 4th Dan (Master) on October 29, 2015, in Seoul, Korea, after an 8-day grading at Ko Dan Ja Shim Sa (Master Testing) with Grand Master H.C Hwang (9th Dan)
Hedges Sa Bom Nim played a pivotal role in my grades up to 3rd Dan, evaluating my technical knowledge and skills in Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan.
Since 2008, I have served as a Technical Advisory Member and Board of Directors for the UK Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan.
My teaching journey began in 2001, shortly after achieving my first Dan, under the mentorship of Master Hedges Sa Bom Nim. Starting with classes at Fulwood Leisure Centre, I later became a full-time instructor in various schools under Master Hedge's guidance. Upon relocating to Northern Ireland in 2007, I opened my first Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan class at Kilkeel Sports Centre on January 15, 2008. Subsequently, I expanded to Attical Community Centre, Newcastle Centre, and Newry Sports Centre.
In October 2015, the Ko Dan Ja in Korea marked a pivotal moment in my martial arts journey, emphasizing that being a Black Belt is just the commencement. Fueled by this realization, I transformed our school into Newry's largest martial arts centre, featuring a newly renovated 5000-square-foot facility catering to individuals starting, resuming, or continuing their martial arts journey.