On 7 December 2024, Wilkinstown Community Centre, Co. Meath, became the stage for a proud moment in the Irish Taekwon-Do community. Four members of Wexford Taekwon-Do reached significant milestones at the National Black Belt Grading, conducted under the authority of the Irish Taekwon-Do Association (ITA) and the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF). Three students earned their 1st Dan Black Belts, while one achieved the highly respected rank of 4th Dan.
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Pictured after earning their Black Belts are (from left): Ms Leah Roche Brennan (1st Dan), Mr Ger Brennan (1st Dan), Mr John Corish (4th Dan) and Mr Fiachra Mehigan (1st Dan).
The successful candidates were Mr John Corish (4th Dan), Mr Fiachra Mehigan (1st Dan), Ms Leah Roche Brennan (1st Dan) and Mr Ger Brennan (1st Dan). Mr Corish and Mr Mehigan train at the Murrintown school, while Ms Roche Brennan and Mr Brennan train at the Wexford Town school. The occasion held particular meaning for the Brennan family, as father and daughter achieved their Black Belts side by side.
The grading was carried out under the supervision of Master Niall Jones, with a panel consisting of Master Kenneth Wheatley, Master Stephen Cooley, Master Nigel Stobie, Mr Carl Smullen and Ms Sabina Mason, while power and special technique testing were examined by Master Hong Looi, and theory examinations by Master Declan McMullen and Ms Nicola Bergin. In total, 39 candidates tested for 1st Dan, along with six for 2nd Dan, one for 3rd Dan, and three for 4th Dan, demonstrating the scale and professionalism of the event.
This grading was the culmination of months of preparation. All candidates were required to complete the ITA Preliminary Black Belt Test held on 22 November in Newbridge, and to assist at two ITA tournaments over the year. In addition, Mr Corish, who tested for 4th Dan, was required to complete the International Instructor Certificate, successfully complete the International Do Course and attend at least one International Instructor Course — commitments that reflect the high level of proficiency expected at senior rank.
A Dan Black Belt represents more than technical proficiency. It reflects maturity, discipline, resilience, and an understanding of Taekwon-Do as both a physical art and a personal philosophy. Candidates are examined across fundamentals, patterns, step sparring, free sparring, self-defence applications, terminology, history and both power and special breaking techniques. It is a thorough evaluation of skill, knowledge, control, attitude and spirit.
At just 15 years old, Mr Fiachra Mehigan balanced his grading preparation while studying for his Junior Certificate examinations. Successfully managing both commitments reflects an impressive level of discipline and determination and speaks volumes about his character.
Wexford Taekwon-Do has been a key part of the sporting community since 1973 and currently trains 90 students aged between 4 and 60 across its Wexford Town and Murrintown locations. The club promotes confidence, respect, discipline and personal growth in every student, regardless of age or ability.
Instructor Mr John Barry (3rd Dan) expressed his pride in the club’s achievements:
“We are extremely proud of the commitment and perseverance shown by these four students. Earning a Black Belt is more than just a physical accomplishment; it reflects years of dedication, respect, character development and personal growth. Taekwon-Do brings out the best in young people and adults alike — building confidence, discipline and resilience. Their success represents the strength of our entire club community.”
The next event on the calendar for Wexford Taekwon-Do will be the Munster Open on 14 February, where students from both schools will have the opportunity to compete and continue their martial arts journey.
Wexford Taekwon-Do welcomes new members of all ages and abilities. More information is available at wexfordtaekwondo.com.
Wexford Taekwon-Do 
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