12-year-old High Peak martial arts student gains black belt
A 12-year-old martial arts student has gained her elusive black belt after being graded by seven world Grand Masters.
Jasmine Hallows has been learning martial arts since just before her sixth birthday.
Now after training for half her life her dedication has paid off and she has gained the top award in her discipline
Teacher Jane Kirk from Buxton TAGB Taekwondo Club said: “This is a fantastic achievement for one so young and really shows just how much hard work and training Jasmine has done.
“She has been here every week for six years and really pushed herself and I am so proud of her.”
Jane said the black belt is an equivalent to an NVQ and she will be able to put it on her CV when she starts job hunting.
“This shows employers that you can commit to something and you are prepared to put in the hard work to get the results.
"It originates from an army training programme so it is strict about respect and discipline but these aren’t bad things.
“Taekwondo is also really good for improving self confidence and especially for young girls it gives them a voice and the power to stand up for themselves.”
Jane who has competed in national and international championships says it is great to see talent emerging in the next generation.
“Being part of a sport can really take you places and these opportunities deepen a person’s character and sense of self.
“Jasmine has worked so hard to get to the level she is at.
“She was one of 500 students who went to Daventry and graded that day which in itself is a big deal to be with that many people.
“And she absolutely smashed it.”
Jane has more than 30 years of competing and teaching under her belt and her classes meet on a Wednesday night at Bath Road Day Centre, Bath Road, Buxton 7-8.30pm and she is looking to start a Tuesday evening session as well.
New members are always welcome and she takes children from aged five and up - anyone who would like any information should contact her on [email protected]