Wexford and Murrintown Taekwon-Do held their Kup Grading on 23 November in the Murrintown Community Centre, where 32 students demonstrated their technical improvement, growing confidence and dedication to their martial arts journey. The grading was conducted by Master Kenneth Wheatley (8th Dan) from Greystones and sanctioned by the Irish Taekwon-Do Association (ITA), ensuring that the examination was carried out to recognised national standards.
Grading days are important moments in a student’s development, providing the chance to demonstrate the skills learned throughout the year. They encourage discipline, resilience, respect and determination — values that extend far beyond the dojang.
The first students to be assessed were from the ITF Kids Development Programme, aged between 4 and 7. The programme focuses on building strong foundations: balance, coordination, concentration, confidence and teamwork. The level of progress demonstrated by the youngest members was clear to see, both in their movement and in their attitude. Special mention goes to Agustin Hurtado, who showed excellent application of his skills, and Eve Sutherland, whose confidence and effort were apparent throughout. All children in this group earned their stripe promotions, reflecting their continued progress.
The older students, grading from 10th Kup upwards, then took to the floor to demonstrate their work across a variety of technical categories, including fundamental movements, patterns, sparring drills, combinations, self-defence elements and terminology. The standard was strong throughout, and the growing maturity and focus shown by many students spoke volumes about the dedication they have brought to their training.
Among the group, Arina Anishchenko produced a performance of exceptional quality. Grading for 9th Kup, Arina achieved a Double Promotion (D/P) — one of the highest acknowledgements possible at Kup level, awarded only when a student significantly exceeds expectations across all examined areas. As a result, she progressed directly to 8th Kup, reflecting not only her technical skill but also her consistent focus, preparation and commitment.
For the club, Kup grading represents much more than belt colour. It is an opportunity to recognise personal development, to encourage self-belief, and to reinforce the values of respect, perseverance, resilience and teamwork. Many students have been training diligently throughout the year, and the grading provided well-deserved recognition of that dedication.
Instructor Mr John Barry (3rd Dan) expressed pride in his students:
“We are very proud of all our students. The dedication they showed leading up to the grading was clear throughout the day. Their progress is measured not just in belts and stripes but in confidence, attitude and resilience — qualities that Taekwon-Do helps develop in every student.”
Wexford Taekwon-Do, founded in 1973, continues to play an important role in the local community. The club trains 90 students aged from 4 to 60 across its Wexford Town and Murrintown locations, promoting physical fitness, mental resilience, mutual respect and lifelong learning. New members are welcomed at both centres, whether complete beginners or those returning to the art.
For more information or to enquire about training, visit wexfordtaekwondo.com.
Wexford Taekwon-Do 
Leave a comment