Forsyth Warriors

In the fall of 2004, a group of dedicated martial artists from the Forsyth Taekwon-Do Academy decided to start a Martial Arts Demonstration Team with the goal of attending the United States Taekwon-Do Federation's (USTF) Spring Nationals in Dallas, Texas in May 2005. The Forsyth Taekwon-Do Academy is located in Forsyth Missouri, a small town with a population of about 1,670. Five hometown children, ages 9-12, stood up to the challenge and called themselves "Warriors". Training three days a week, two hours at a time, for two months, they were ready for their first test. In October 2004 at the TCB Martial Art Championships the Warriors went up against several demonstration teams, including a nationally recognized traveling team. Though the competition was tough, the Warriors were victorious. This victory showed them that they had a chance for a National Championship. Their next test was a talent show in February 2005 where they won 1st place in their age group and also won 1st place over-all. This earned them enough money for boards and gear to continue training. Needing the money to make the trip to Dallas, they went door-to-door selling candy bars. They earned nearly $900 which paid for their travel, food and lodging needed to attended the USTF Spring Nationals in Dallas Texas. On arrival to the tournament they found they were competing against two former National Championship winners, one being a 6 time winner. These teams were not only more experienced but had at least twice as many members. The panel of eight high rate judges was overseen by Master McNeely of the USTF and Grand Master Kong of the ICTF. The competition was tough, but the Warriors walked away with a unanimous decision awarding them the Championship. Five young men from a small town did what some would think impossible, but it shows that with a lot of hard work and dedication big goals can be met. On June 15th Mr. Middleton informed the Forsyth Taekwon-Do Academy that Grand Master Kong had invited the Forsyth Warriors to perform at 50th Anniversary Championship Tournament in Las Vegas, NV celebrating the 50 years of Taekwon-Do on July 23rd. This leaves the team a month to raise money to attend this historic event. The Warriors, who worked, earned and fought their way to the top, now have an opportunity of a lifetime. They, who have done numerous charity events for others, now need your help. Any donations to help these children fulfill their dreams would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. Bill Hagler Forsyth Taekwon-Do Academy PO Box 1353, Forsyth, MO 65653 info@forsythtkd.com 417-546-1552

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