Martial arts school’s students make grade

Dec 4 2008 by Andrew McGilvray, Hamilton Advertiser

A HAMILTON Tae Kwon-do instructor and six students gained promotion at a recent Action International Martial Arts Association (AIMAA) Scotland black belt grading.

Tracey Belgacem (23), who trains and instructs at husband Karim’s School of Cho’s Tae Kwon-do in Hamilton, came through a near four-hour testing and was promoted to fourth degree black belt, and awarded international instructor status.

Mrs Belgacem has been involved in the Korean martial art for over 15 years.

On the same day, Samantha Shaw and Alannah Martin were promoted to second degree, while Ross Martin, Alastair Martin, Aaron Irving and Taylor McQueenie were promoted to black belt first degree.

The testing was chaired by AIMAA European director Master John D’arcy and AIMAA Scotland director Master John Kirkwood, both of whom hold the rank of sixth degree.

Delighted Karim said: “These results have been the culmination of a lifetime’s worth of effort.

“Everyone who tested showed great character in achieving their rank and I am exceptionally proud of all of them.”

Belgacem’s School of Cho’s Tae Kwon-do have schools in Hamilton and Larkhall, wo are both currently enrolling new members of all ages.

For further details, calll 07729 452988 or visit: www.chostkd.co.uk.