Black belt success and 'landmark' milestones at Enso Taekwondo Academy
A taekwondo academy in south Cumbria has been celebrating a 'landmark occasion' following recent successes for its members.
Enso Taekwondo Academy, based in Milnthorpe, conducted a series of black belt gradings held under the supervision of 8th Dan Grand Master Phil James, Grand Master Gary Sykes and British Taekwondo CEO Grand Master Ian Leafe.
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Leading the celebration was Head Instructor Steven Grabek, who was promoted to 6th Dan black belt, marking more than two decades of dedication to the art in and becoming the first instructor in the local area to achieve this rank.
Enso instructors Rachel, Olivia, Steven, Rich, and Andy (Image: Steven Grabek)
Beginning his taekwondo journey at the age of 23 in Kendal, Master Grabek is now placed among the most senior instructors nationwide.
Other recent black belt promotions for the club were: Andrew Syverson (4th Dan), Rachel Wray (3rd Dan), Olivia Hollister (3rd Dan), Megan Hayhurst (3rd Dan), Rich Flight (2nd Dan), and Arthur Wray (2nd Dan).
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READ MORE: Kendal girl represents team GB at Taekwondo Championships | The Westmorland Gazette
Among the younger members, Finn Reid, Izzy Jackson, Emily Hartropp, Eli West, Tom, and Milnthorpe adult member Jamie Warren all achieved their 1st Dan.
Meanwhile, Toby Flight, Cerys Hughes, Oliver Powlesland, and Zara Fecitt all earned their 2nd Dan black belt.
Students Toby Flight and Finn Reid celebrating their black belt promotion (Image: Steven Grabek)
Chris Brown was promoted to 1st Dan black belt, a 'particularly proud' moment for instructor Andy Syverson as Chris became the first black belt to emerge from Enso's Kendal Rugby Club-based class.
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Master Grabek said: "These results reflect the hard work, commitment and camaraderie that define our club.
'Each black belt isn't just a milestone—it's the product of years of effort, growth and the decision to keep moving forward.'
He started his involvement in the practice under the guidance of Grand Master Phil James, who continues to play a key role in the club's development by now overseeing black belt gradings for its students.
The academy operates from Dallam School in Milnthorpe and Kendal Rugby Club, offering classes for all ages and abilities, and continues to have a 'meaningful impact' in the local community.
More information about Enso Taekwondo Academy can be found here.
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