On June 19, 1999, Hubert Border graded successfully for his black belt at East York Hapkido-Karate Club. You can click the smaller images to view larger ones. Please use the "back" button of your browser to return.

Hubert is demonstrating a diving shoulder roll. Later in the test, Mr Border dove over three people!

Even a black belt candidate has to do the basics. Here Hubert is demonstrating a side break-fall, a technique taught to all beginning white belts. That's part of the reason a black belt test can take hours to complete.

Mr Border had to demonstrate every single block, strike, and kick in our Hapkido-Karate system. A black belt grading requires tremendous stamina and excellent cardio-vascular conditioning.

Hubert with Sensei John Foster. This was a rare for opportunity spectators and participants to observe more advanced Hapkido techniques.

Twelve-hand sparring. Several club members, past and present, came out to help with Hubert's test.

Tamishiwari, "the art of breaking." Mr Border had to break three pairs of 3/4-inch boards -- first with a reverse punch, then an elbow strike, and, finally with a thrust kick (not shown). Notice that the first pair of broken boards are still in mid-air after he has struck the second pair.

In the fourth hour of his black belt test, Hubert punches eight boards. Six of them break. They were separated by dominoes. You can see one in the foreground.

A successful grading. The examiners pose with Hubert: John Foster and Anthony Foster (left) and Max White (right).

The team. Club members, past and present, came out for Hubert's grading. From left to right... Standing: Gord, Tucker, Pete, Brandon, Mike, Brad, Gary, Cam, Richard. Kneeling: John, Hubert, Max, Tony.

Photos on this page courtesy of Gordon W.E. Nore © 1999 - 2007