Testimonial by Mr. Chris Michael 'SA' Dan B.U.T.F.

I started training in Tae Kwon-do many years ago under Master Roger Koo (Grandmaster Choy's first black belt). Since then I have had the great privilege to train under or attend seminars by many great Tae Kwon-do masters, including the founder himself, General Choi Hong Hi. However, none have left such an impression or had such an impact in my life as Grandmaster Choy.

I remember the feeling of fear the first time I was graded by Grandmaster Choy - as a green belt in the early 1980s.

I remember competing in countless tournaments throughout the 1980s and 1990s - none of which would have happened without the leadership and organisational skills of Grandmaster Choy.

I remember those great Thursday night sessions at Putney where you had to line up and spar with at least 10 other black belts, ranging from 1st to 6th Dan. If you started the session not being able to do the splits, you sure could do them by the end. Quitting was never an option and Grandmaster Choy always managed to get the best out of everyone - as can clearly be seen by the high standard of all his students.

I remember the atmosphere of friendship and openness upon which the B.U.T.F. was founded and which still exists today.

I also remember difficult periods in my life outside of Tae Kwon-do, when Mr Choy has been there as a friend and mentor.

Above all else, I remember the scale of impact that Grandmaster Choy has made. Having dedicated his life to the teaching of Tae Kwon-do, I would estimate that he has either directly or indirectly passed on his knowledge and pursuit of excellence to tens of thousands of students. A true 'father' of Tae Kwon-do. A true Grandmaster.

With the Greatest of Respect.

PLEASE NOTE: Further testimonials or acknowledgments may be emailed to headoffice@butf.com with the subject line "Grandmaster Promotion". We will endeavour to publish all appropriate messages.

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