Grandmother gains 8th Dan black belt in Taekwondo

5:26:00 AM Tkd kwan 0 Comments

In a remarkable achievement, a 52-year-old grandmother has made history as the first British woman to attain an 8th Dan black belt in Taekwondo. Renowned world master, Annabel Murcott, with training schools spread across the Peterborough area, has dedicated herself to martial arts since the tender age of 11.

At the British Championships in London, Mrs. Murcott shattered records by becoming the youngest member of the Taekwondo Association of Great Britain (TAGB) to ascend to the prestigious rank of grand master. Embracing this milestone, she aspires to empower more women to embrace the Korean martial art that she holds dear.

Reflecting on her groundbreaking accomplishment, Mrs. Murcott expressed her joy, stating, "I am proud to be the first female within the TAGB. It has taken years of unwavering dedication to reach this point." Waiting patiently for eight years to earn this distinguished belt, she now proudly possesses eight black belts symbolizing her immense skill and expertise.

Hailing from Stamford, Lincolnshire, Mrs. Murcott's journey in Taekwondo began at just 15 years old when she earned her first black belt. Inspired by a friend's brother to embark on this path, she found her calling in the world of martial arts and never looked back. Over a distinguished career spanning four decades, she has clinched numerous medals at world championships, served as a respected referee, and shared her knowledge as a teacher for the past thirty years.

Together with her husband, Dale Pollard, a 5th Dan black belt holder, Mrs. Murcott oversees ten branches of Annabel Murcott Schools of Taekwondo, leaving a lasting impact in Peterborough and Lincolnshire. Advocating for self-defence classes in secondary schools and striving to encourage more women to engage in the sport, she seeks to break barriers and showcase the prowess of female athletes in Taekwondo.

In her pursuit to champion martial arts as a life skill and instill discipline and fitness in individuals, Mrs. Murcott emphasizes its benefits for mental well-being and physical vitality. Her husband, Mr. Pollard, lauds her remarkable achievement and the family's collective dedication to Taekwondo, a legacy passed down through the generations, fostering a deep-rooted connection to the sport. In their shared pride for Mrs. Murcott's extraordinary commitment and achievements, the Pollard family stands united in their passion for Taekwondo.