Mr. Randy Langley is an integral part of the community at Asheville Sun Soo Tae Kwon Do. As one of the most experienced students, Mr. Langley’s leadership helps to set an example of excellence and encourages all students to persevere to succeed. At the age of 73, Mr. Langley keeps up with teenage students and is always humble about his accomplishments, which include achieving 3rd degree black belt and attending 1500 classes since he began his practice. Additionally, Mr. Langley puts in many hours of practice outside of normal class times – for which he gets no official credit – but the extra time shows up in his technique and his ability to assist other students with their curriculum.
We are so fortunate to have Mr. Langley as a student at Asheville Sun Soo. He provides inspiration and friendship to all who interact with him, living life with a code of honor, effort and dignity while encouraging classmates with his indomitable spirit. Thank you, Mr. Langley for your contributions, your kindness toward others, and your fantastic work ethic! We are honored that you practice here at Asheville Sun Soo.
How old are you?
73
What is your rank?
3rd Degree Black Belt
What is your occupation?
I retired almost 15 years ago from a career in engineering – primarily in supervision & management. During my “retirement” I taught cycling (nee spinning) classes at the Reuter YMCA (using music from the 50’s 60’s and 70’s), later was an insurance agent, and up to this past July 15 “worked” (if you can call pouring wine and talking work) at the Biltmore Estate Winery tasting room.
Why do you practice?
At first it was a strong curiosity. I knew Master Morris though a networking group and my older daughter is also a master in northern Virginia. After starting at Asheville Sun Soo, the challenge of an organized sport and the attainable goals via the belt system kept me going. Now, it’s the investment in friendships and the practice that keep me going.
How long have you been practicing?
Eight years.
What do you enjoy about your practice so far?
This is difficult to answer; surprisingly not for fitness as I have always believed that physical fitness is a personal responsibility. What I take pleasure in is the agility and confidence I have gained from the challenge of both form-work and self-defense. I also appreciate the belt system, which I believe is key to retention – most people really appreciate the sense of accomplishment of reaching the next level. Finally, the friendships I have developed, particularly among the staff of Asheville Sun Soo, make each class a pleasure no matter how worn out I get!
What are some of your other hobbies and interests?
My family, particularly Sandra, my wife and best friend of more than 51 years, is my first interest and priority. Then come my daughters and their families, including four grandchildren. Politics and current events come next. My hobby and passion is photography.
What is something people at Tae Kwon Do probably don’t know about you?
Sandra and I have lived in seven states and have owned seven homes. After graduate school, I spent two years in the US Army attaining the rank of Captain. I have managed engineering groups, taught spinning classes, sold insurance, and was a server in the Biltmore winery.
What is your favorite Tae Kwon Do moment?
Completing my latest form successfully (though, I keep reminding myself that I always need to improve.)
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Wasn’t that enough? Probably like drinking through a fire hydrant!
https://www.martialartsasheville.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Logo-Dark-Background-300x198.png00board_breakerhttps://www.martialartsasheville.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Logo-Dark-Background-300x198.pngboard_breaker2015-11-11 10:49:302016-02-26 12:52:00Asheville Sun Soo’s resident septuagenarian raises the bar for indomitable spirit!
Our student spotlight this week is on Sofia Murphy. Sofia is a mature 16 year old who recently achieved the rank of 1st degree Black Belt by training hard with integrity and bringing a positive attitude to each class that she attends at Asheville Sun Soo. She practices alongside her step-dad, Mr. Adeeb Fakhoury, who is an experienced 3rd degree Black Belt at Asheville Sun Soo. Off the mat, Sofia is a sweet and cheerful young woman who excels academically and is a supportive friend and family member. Although Sofia is very humble and does not seek to draw attention to herself, as a Tae Kwon Do practitioner she demonstrates recognizable excellence. Sofia moves with grace and is an inspiration to all students who seek to improve their power and finesse. We are proud to have Sofia as a member of our community at Asheville Sun Soo and are grateful for the skill self-control and compassion she brings to her practice.
How old are you?
I’m sixteen years old.
What is your occupation?
I’m a junior at West Henderson High School
Why do you practice?
I practice for self-defense, to step out of my comfort space, and to keep pushing myself to new limits.
How long have you been practicing?
I’ve been practicing a little over three years.
What do you enjoy most about your practice so far?
I enjoy meeting new people and the Asheville Sun Soo community.
What are some of your other hobbies or interests?
One of my other hobbies is yoga. I practice yoga at Anjali Hot Yatra Yoga at least twice a week.
What is something people at Tae Kwon Do probably don’t know about you?
When I was little I used to play the piano. During those years that I played, I went to a couple of competitions and was highly scored.
What is your favorite Tae Kwon Do moment?
My favorite moment would have to be board breakings during testing. When you watch someone who doesn’t break the board their first try, but perseveres and eventually succeeds. Watching their expression is always the best, it goes from disappointed to excitement.
https://www.martialartsasheville.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Logo-Dark-Background-300x198.png00board_breakerhttps://www.martialartsasheville.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Logo-Dark-Background-300x198.pngboard_breaker2015-10-01 00:13:502016-02-26 12:55:52Sofia Murphy – A fierce, friendly martial artist in our midst
Killian Hoyer is an exemplary member of the Asheville Sun Soo advanced kids’ class. He demonstrates both excellent technique and character, while consistently striving to do his best with integrity and set an awesome example for his younger sister. Killian is humble and open to feedback from instructors. We are proud of Killian for his participation in tournaments. He always demonstrates fantastic sportsmanship and uses the opportunity as a learning experience. Overall, Killian’s great attitude facilitates his commitment to excellence as a martial artist, a student, and a family member. We are thankful that he is part of our community at Asheville Sun Soo.
How old are you?
9
What is your rank?
Blue-red
Why do you practice?
To learn better self defense.
How long have you been practicing?
1 ½ years
What do you enjoy most about your practice so far?
My forms. Once I learn them they are really fun!
What are some of your other hobbies or interests?
Basketball and soccer.
What is something people at Tae Kwon Do probably don’t know about you?
I like spinach.
What is your favorite Tae Kwon Do moment?
When I broke a board at the tournament.
https://www.martialartsasheville.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Logo-Dark-Background-300x198.png00Ms. Goyerhttps://www.martialartsasheville.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Logo-Dark-Background-300x198.pngMs. Goyer2015-09-24 13:36:382015-10-07 00:39:18Killian Hoyer - A Leader by Example
Asheville Sun Soo’s resident septuagenarian raises the bar for indomitable spirit!
/in Student Spotlight /by board_breakerMr. Randy Langley is an integral part of the community at Asheville Sun Soo Tae Kwon Do. As one of the most experienced students, Mr. Langley’s leadership helps to set an example of excellence and encourages all students to persevere to succeed. At the age of 73, Mr. Langley keeps up with teenage students and is always humble about his accomplishments, which include achieving 3rd degree black belt and attending 1500 classes since he began his practice. Additionally, Mr. Langley puts in many hours of practice outside of normal class times – for which he gets no official credit – but the extra time shows up in his technique and his ability to assist other students with their curriculum.
We are so fortunate to have Mr. Langley as a student at Asheville Sun Soo. He provides inspiration and friendship to all who interact with him, living life with a code of honor, effort and dignity while encouraging classmates with his indomitable spirit. Thank you, Mr. Langley for your contributions, your kindness toward others, and your fantastic work ethic! We are honored that you practice here at Asheville Sun Soo.
How old are you?
73
What is your rank?
3rd Degree Black Belt
What is your occupation?
I retired almost 15 years ago from a career in engineering – primarily in supervision & management. During my “retirement” I taught cycling (nee spinning) classes at the Reuter YMCA (using music from the 50’s 60’s and 70’s), later was an insurance agent, and up to this past July 15 “worked” (if you can call pouring wine and talking work) at the Biltmore Estate Winery tasting room.
Why do you practice?
At first it was a strong curiosity. I knew Master Morris though a networking group and my older daughter is also a master in northern Virginia. After starting at Asheville Sun Soo, the challenge of an organized sport and the attainable goals via the belt system kept me going. Now, it’s the investment in friendships and the practice that keep me going.
How long have you been practicing?
Eight years.
What do you enjoy about your practice so far?
This is difficult to answer; surprisingly not for fitness as I have always believed that physical fitness is a personal responsibility. What I take pleasure in is the agility and confidence I have gained from the challenge of both form-work and self-defense. I also appreciate the belt system, which I believe is key to retention – most people really appreciate the sense of accomplishment of reaching the next level. Finally, the friendships I have developed, particularly among the staff of Asheville Sun Soo, make each class a pleasure no matter how worn out I get!
What are some of your other hobbies and interests?
My family, particularly Sandra, my wife and best friend of more than 51 years, is my first interest and priority. Then come my daughters and their families, including four grandchildren. Politics and current events come next. My hobby and passion is photography.
What is something people at Tae Kwon Do probably don’t know about you?
Sandra and I have lived in seven states and have owned seven homes. After graduate school, I spent two years in the US Army attaining the rank of Captain. I have managed engineering groups, taught spinning classes, sold insurance, and was a server in the Biltmore winery.
What is your favorite Tae Kwon Do moment?
Completing my latest form successfully (though, I keep reminding myself that I always need to improve.)
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Wasn’t that enough? Probably like drinking through a fire hydrant!
Sofia Murphy – A fierce, friendly martial artist in our midst
/in Student Spotlight /by board_breakerOur student spotlight this week is on Sofia Murphy. Sofia is a mature 16 year old who recently achieved the rank of 1st degree Black Belt by training hard with integrity and bringing a positive attitude to each class that she attends at Asheville Sun Soo. She practices alongside her step-dad, Mr. Adeeb Fakhoury, who is an experienced 3rd degree Black Belt at Asheville Sun Soo. Off the mat, Sofia is a sweet and cheerful young woman who excels academically and is a supportive friend and family member. Although Sofia is very humble and does not seek to draw attention to herself, as a Tae Kwon Do practitioner she demonstrates recognizable excellence. Sofia moves with grace and is an inspiration to all students who seek to improve their power and finesse. We are proud to have Sofia as a member of our community at Asheville Sun Soo and are grateful for the skill self-control and compassion she brings to her practice.
How old are you?
I’m sixteen years old.
What is your occupation?
I’m a junior at West Henderson High School
Why do you practice?
I practice for self-defense, to step out of my comfort space, and to keep pushing myself to new limits.
How long have you been practicing?
I’ve been practicing a little over three years.
What do you enjoy most about your practice so far?
I enjoy meeting new people and the Asheville Sun Soo community.
What are some of your other hobbies or interests?
One of my other hobbies is yoga. I practice yoga at Anjali Hot Yatra Yoga at least twice a week.
What is something people at Tae Kwon Do probably don’t know about you?
When I was little I used to play the piano. During those years that I played, I went to a couple of competitions and was highly scored.
What is your favorite Tae Kwon Do moment?
My favorite moment would have to be board breakings during testing. When you watch someone who doesn’t break the board their first try, but perseveres and eventually succeeds. Watching their expression is always the best, it goes from disappointed to excitement.
Killian Hoyer – A Leader by Example
/in Student Spotlight /by Ms. GoyerKillian Hoyer is an exemplary member of the Asheville Sun Soo advanced kids’ class. He demonstrates both excellent technique and character, while consistently striving to do his best with integrity and set an awesome example for his younger sister. Killian is humble and open to feedback from instructors. We are proud of Killian for his participation in tournaments. He always demonstrates fantastic sportsmanship and uses the opportunity as a learning experience. Overall, Killian’s great attitude facilitates his commitment to excellence as a martial artist, a student, and a family member. We are thankful that he is part of our community at Asheville Sun Soo.
How old are you?
9
What is your rank?
Blue-red
Why do you practice?
To learn better self defense.
How long have you been practicing?
1 ½ years
What do you enjoy most about your practice so far?
My forms. Once I learn them they are really fun!
What are some of your other hobbies or interests?
Basketball and soccer.
What is something people at Tae Kwon Do probably don’t know about you?
I like spinach.
What is your favorite Tae Kwon Do moment?
When I broke a board at the tournament.