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Harrogate taekwondo students celebrate grading success with Mayor

Monday, 10 August 2026 08:44

Harrogate taekwondo pupils with Harrogate Mayor Viv Poskitt (centre).

Taekwondo students in Harrogate are celebrating after successfully earning their next belts at a special grading event attended by the town's Mayor.

Harrogate Taekwondo Academy (KTA) held its latest Kup grading at Rossett Sports Centre on Saturday (8th August), with students put through a series of examinations and demonstrations.

The event was organised by academy founder and 7th Dan Taekwondo Master Kambiz R Ali, with the Mayor of Harrogate, Councillor Viv Poskitt, attending as guest of honour.

The Mayor watched the examinations before presenting successful students with their new belts and certificates.

All those who took part successfully achieved promotion to their next grade.

Commendation certificates and new belts were awarded to Ted Moody, John Moody, Lawrence Russell, Sebastian Bickley, Joseph O'Rourke, Harvey Ricardo, Samuel Ricardo, Ethan Downend, Daniel Dawson and Charles Anderson.

Master Kambiz said:

“I am so very proud of all my students and their achievements at this grading.

“This grading has marked a crucial milestone for many of our members. While some have just completed their very first tests, others are now only a few steps away from achieving their much-desired black belt.

“The hard work, commitment and perseverance of our students have once again shone through today, and even more so in the presence of our esteemed guest, the Mayor of Harrogate.

“It was a truly special occasion and one that I know our students, instructors and families will remember with great pride.”

He added:

“My sincere thanks go to our dear guest of honour, the Mayor of Harrogate Viv Poskitt for attending this event and for her kind words of encouragement and support.

“Her presence and support is a great inspiration and motivator to all our participants.”

Harrogate KTA is now preparing for the sixth TaeKangwon Open Poomsae Championships, which will take place online later this month.

The competition is expected to attract competitors from around the world, with a team from Harrogate KTA preparing to take part.

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