Sunday, September 22, 2013

Battle for the Mountaintop

Saturday, September 21st brought us the first regional tournament of the season with the 18th annual Battle for the Mountaintop. For those who attended, the rewards were so much more than the trophy.

New friends were made.
Nerves were braved.
Extreme and creative limits were challenged.
New things were tried.
Skills were displayed.
It was a chance to hang out with fellow students outside of the dojo.
It was fun!
New goals were set...

The trophies were just the icing on the cake!


Thursday, September 19, 2013

Grand Opening and Board Break-a-Thon

The Grand Opening of the new Arvada school location and annual Board Break-a-Thon was a HUGE success! And...it didn't rain! The weather was not only cooperative but absolutely gorgeous.
The kick-off class brought students of all ages from Golden and Arvada, some parents, siblings, and even some people who had never tried Taekwondo before.
Everyone did an awesome job with warm-ups, pad drills and some useful self-defense techniques.
Next, Mr. Riley Pederson inspired everyone with his Xtreme form and then taught an action-filled XMA class.
Even those new to this performance-style of Martial Arts, brought energy and enthusiasm to their extreme moves.
As soon as prizes were awarded to class participants, the action was moved outside to the parking lot where lots of raring to go, eager kids bounded upon the much-loved Dragon Bounce House. 
As money was collected for the Board Break-a-Thon, participants began breaking their boards. Those who raised $50.00 or more got to choose techniques to break 19 plastic boards and 1 wooden one. Some chose to buy a wooden board for $5.00. 
Raffle tickets were available for lots of fun prizes- 3 Wave Masters, a Jahng Bong (long staff), Private Lessons with Action Family ATA Instructors, and a heavyweight uniform. There were lots of very happy winners!
All in all, it was a very successful day. A total of $3,000.00 was raised for Team Pride- a non-profit organization which provides Martial Arts training for kids who cannot afford it. The top fund raiser was Cody McKibben who raised $500.00!
Many thanks to all of the participants- kids and parents alike who took the time to raise money and show support for not only Team Pride but also for Action Family ATA and all that it stands for.