On 03-29-08, Jonathan Tiu and Kegger O’Neal, students from the Livermore United Studios of Self Defense passed their test for black belt at a test that was conducted at USSD’s Northern California Headquarters in Dublin, CA. There were also ten other students from cities around the Bay Area testing as well. USSD has over 200 locations nationwide, with 13 in the Bay Area.

The test, which lasted a little over four hours, was a very short test in terms of length, but was one of the most difficult tests in recent memory. With only 12 people testing, there were ten instructors present to make sure that every student was pushed to their limit. After the new black belts put their belts on and were dismissed from the test, everyone was clearly thrilled, but also exhausted, as they all just lingered around the lobby for about a half-hour after the test to gather enough energy to go home. Conversations with Jonathan and Kegger the next day confirmed that both were so sore, just walking was difficult! It should be noted, however, that nobody was injured at the test beyond a few days of soreness.

Kegger is well known throughout the Bay Area for his success in tournaments. He has won national competitions in the Bay Area, Las Vegas, and in Irvine where USSD regularly breaks their own record for tournament attendance. When he arrived at the testing location, he was immediately recognized, so instructors were watching him very carefully. He performed remarkably well at the tournament in all areas he was evaluated for. He was also matched up against opponents who outweighed him by almost 100 pounds at times, but he did not let this stop him or even slow him down.

Jonathan is a great example of a quiet martial artist who gathers respect by his actions, not his words. While he wasn’t quite as well known at the start of the test as Kegger was, he was just as well known by the end of it. Jordan Penman, an instructor from San Rafael, commented that Jonathan was a perfect example of an all-around martial artist, with no weak points to speak of. There is no doubt that Jonathan has the respect of his classmates at the Livermore school.

Kegger and Jonathan join Brian McKee as the only active black belts at United Studios of Self Defense in Livermore. If you have any questions about belt testing, tournaments, or other special events at USSD, please call 925-449-1746 or visit us at 4429 1^st Street in Livermore.