Beginning his Taekwondo journey in 2018, David Flanders has taken part in a range of opportunities to improve his Taekwondo skills. From assisting with the junior classes to winning medals at Poomsae competitions, David Flanders discusses his experience of beginning his training as an adult and those who have inspired him on his journey.
How did you get into Taekwondo?
This is a bit of a long story. In summer 2006 my daughter attended a summer school run by Master Gerry Reilly at the local school hall and joined officially in September and has carried on since then. She has progressed to Black Belt whilst at university.
For many years she had suggested that I join her, particularly as I was taking her to training sessions and “just sitting waiting”
However, it was not until after my wife (her mother) had passed away, that I felt that I could take her up on this invitation (a feeling of “nothing to lose” perhaps), and I started in January of 2018
What was it like training as a beginner? How did you become comfortable training with your club?
I was welcomed into the community, and although the oldest member felt supported as I began to learn. It did not take too long before I was able to start to progress and feel that I was part of it all and learning in the same way as other younger participants.
Unfortunately, the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns did have an effect on me and I began to feel that my progress was stuck and I became somewhat despondent (to the extent that I contemplated giving up).
Fortunately I attended a seminar by Grand Master Shin Byeong Hyun, where I felt so encouraged by meeting many other practitioners that I resolved to try again. My enthusiasm had returned and I have made a great deal of progress.
How have you made the most out of your Taekwondo Journey? (this can involve competitions, taking part in demos, courses and other events)
In more recent years, I have been encouraged to take part in poomsae competitions as well as the general training offered at Bluewave. In addition, I have started to assist with junior classes (up to 12 years) which is part of my being able to “give back” for all the help and assistance I have received. I intend to take up the options of instructor training courses as I feel that this would benefit both me and the club.
What’s your favourite memory from training?
My favourite memory is of the World Taekwondo Chungdokwan Federation summer camp in Korea which took place in July this year. This was to mark the 80th anniversary of Chungdokwan and was let by Grand Master Shin Byeong Hyun. This was an event with many training sessions leading to a competition, at which I was fortunate enough to win a gold medal. As the most junior (in rank as a 1st Kup) I was overwhelmed by the encouragement and support I received from all the other participants.
Is there anyone who inspires you to train?
Obviously the coaches at Bluewave are the most influential, but many other members of the club are encouraging. The fact that I am retired means that I can take more time but I am always impressed by those who have much more pressure on their time and can still commit as much as they do. I could name names, but this would single out some members when I feel the whole club is behind me (as they are for everyone).
Additionally, all the people I meet from other clubs at competitions and regional Poomsae training events keep me in the “I can do it” frame of mind.
If you could give advice to any other adults who are considering training, what would it be?
First of all – give it a go! Don’t be shy, the club will want you to succeed and will be able to assist you with any difficulties you may feel as you get started.
Second – accept that there may be things that are more difficult or that you may find you don’t like. You can discuss this with the coaches and they will always try to help you find the right way for you.
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