Masters of Martial Arts – Tony Vohra

Why did you start martial arts?
I started for Self defence and fitness.

What do you think is the greatest benefit they offer?

Most definitely confidence. Especially in my case.

What is your greatest achievement?

Testing and passing 8th Dan at Kukkiwon. This was a great achievement for me to be tested at the Kukkiwon and having my capabilities, mentally and physically tested /accessed at the headquarters in Korea.  

Can martial arts be a guiding light for society?

Spirit of Martial arts is a way of life.

What’s your favourite technique?

Breaking with an air break technique, or materials held very lightly where speed and accuracy is essential.

What’s your favourite pattern?

Hansu. The meaning of the form is below. The form and feeling of Taekwondo as a martial art is necessary to practice it. Water can be hard as well as soft. Training in Taekwondo can be done soft as well as hard on impact.

The word “hansu” means water which is the source of substance preserving the life and growing all the creatures. Hansu symbolizes birth of a life and growth, strength and weakness, magnanimity, harmony, and adaptability. Especially, “han” has the various meanings, namely, the name of a country, numerousness, largeness, evenness, longevity, even the heaven, and the root of everything among others. Above all, the nature of water characterized being unbreakable and flexible, in addition to all of the above significances, is the background of organizing this poomsae.

The new techniques introduced in this poomsae are sonnaldeung momtong hecho-makki, mejumeok yangyopkuri (both flanks) chigi, kodureo khaljaebi, anpalmok arae pyojeok-makki, sonnal keumgang-makki, etc., and also modumbal as a stance. Actions should be practiced softly like water but continuously like a drop of water gathering to make the ocean. The poomsae line symbolizes the Chinese letter which means water.

What’s the funniest moment you can think of?

During a demonstration I was doing flying jump front kick breaking and as I landed I was hit with the broken piece of wood on my head, which the audience enjoyed more than the demonstration of kicking at 9 foot.

What’s the worst injury you’ve suffered?

The worst injury is a knee injury which was due to over-use and training. Both knees have been operated on know.  

Where would you like to see martial arts in 25 years?

More open to individuals to participate from all walks of life, ages and be for martial arts to be politics free.

How would you like to be remembered?

I would like to be remembered as having touched many people, and given them a skill that would be with them for life. Having helped individuals achieve training from beginner to black belt and beyond ………obtaining Kukkiwon certification which is recognised world wide. Giving them the potential to reach the same certification as me or going even higher.