Saturday, April 25th 2014 a Black Belt Test for Chandler Lee & Alma Solis was conducted at the Highland Studio conducted by Coach Darrell Collins. Coach Collins hard work over the last year was clearly evident as both students executed an exceptional test mentally, physically, and spiritually. Alma Solis and Chandler Lee both successfully completed all requirements for their 1st degree black belts in and exceptional test over seen by Grandmaster Jon Wiedenman and Master George Fullerton.
Their test included all their forms, freestyle techniques, one steps, and sparring. The most significant and interesting were the verbal answers to the judges’ questions. Both Alma and Chandler were very insightful and articulate. Mr. Darrell Collins, Coach Collins, on his impressive prep work on getting the candidates ready, as he did an unbelievable job of taking the "helm of the ship" after the passing of his beloved friend and teacher Master Gene Hahn the former head instructor of the Highland and Rialto studios just this last January. All agreed, Master Hahn would have been honored to see the dedication and "spirit" of his legacy.
Gerardo Avarado on your first tour of duty as a judge. He had approached Grandmaster Jon Wiedenman at the Laughlin, Nevada Spring Nationals in February 2014, and asked if he could judge at Alma and Chandler's upcoming test. Mr. Alvarado had spent many hours with the two young ladies preparing them for the test. After listening, Grandmaster Jon Wiedenman conferred with Master George Fullerton, and the responded with a resounding "absolutely."
This may have been one of the deepest emotional tests to date. Grandmaster Jon Wiedenman as both Alma and Chandler were asked to open up with their own question to Grandmaster Jon Wiedenman and Master George Fullerton. Both senior instructors opened up with very emotional and heartfelt responses. I one question both were asked about their respective idols. For Grandmaster Jon Wiedenman, Muhammad Ali was an easy answer. He went on to explain how the boxer had inspired him to stand up against being bullied in elementary school. Master Fullerton share how his mom had inspired him to accomplish anything he could put his mind to. She was the wind in his sails. Both instructors shared the importance of getting as much education as possible.
All agreed, this was an great day for Chang Moo Kwan spirit.
