Top martial arts accolade for John

Dec 6 2012 by Andrew McGilvray, Hamilton Advertiser

John Kirkwood, Master of the Action International Martial Arts Association (AIMAA) Scotland was inducted into the martial arts hall of fame.

John Kirkwood, a sixth degree Taekwondo Master, attended a 400-strong evening organised by the UK’s leading martial art magazine, ‘Martial Arts Illustrated’, where he and others had been chosen to receive such an accolade from their peers.

This award was for John’s contribution to the martial arts and being at the forefront of taekwondo in the country while also still competing – during 2012 Master Kirkwood has won British and European titles.

Master Kirkwood has been involved in martial arts for over 40 years and has taught in Lanarkshire for over 30 of those, in the communities of Hamilton, Blantyre, Larkhall, Lesmahagow and Motherwell.

John, from Burnbank, Hamilton, has passed on his skills and knowledge to hundreds of students over the years.

His own instructor is the world-renowned Grandmaster Hee Il Cho, who sent a message from Hawaii upon John’s achievement, reading: “Congratulations on this outstanding award, representing a lifetime achievement. It is a wonderful reflection on AIMAA Scotland and your good efforts.”

John said: “It was a true honour to be inducted, to share the stage with so many great people. I was overwhelmed and humbled by this award.

“This award is for all my students and instructors, for without them I would not be where I am today.”

John’s plans to continue his work in 2013 include teaching at an international camp and making trips to America, Norway and Europe to further enhance his knowledge and skills.

Master Kirkwood offers new students a month’s free training, alongside a free uniform and badge. Anyone interested should call AIMAA Scotland on 01555 890871 or 07771 940092. For class listings visit www.aimaascotland.com.