'There are no shortcuts to any place worth going'
- Jaryd Hickson

When I was 7 I started Taekwondo with my sister Jess, back then we both used to say to each other how cool the black belts looked and how good they were. We were white belts and had a lot to learn. Through hard work and training we advanced through our belts and grew in not just skill, but also in character. I made heaps of new friends who made the journey to black belt with me and supported me on the way.

In 2006 I achieved the ultimate goal of any martial artist and achieved my 1st Dan Black Belt, but I still had a long way to go learning more skills and working hard for my 2nd Dan Black Belt which was achievement in June 2009.

In 2008 I decided to enter my first tournament and came 2nd, although I lost I know I could become better and train harder, knowing that 'there are no shortcuts to any place with going'. Since then I have competed in local, state and national tournaments and still want to enter more.

Also in 2009 Dianne asked me if I wanted to teach a kid's class at Irontiger, I immediately accepted. After my first class I learned the joys of teaching and I now look forward to my next one.

Now, Taekwondo practically runs my life with all other events surrounding it. It is my gym and my office at the same time; I love it and will continue for many years to come.