2026 Challenge Camp: Iona University

Hong Ik Martial Arts of New Rochelle led the Taekwondo program for the 2026 Challenge Camp hosted at Iona University. Challenge Camp is ACA accredited and this year marked its 46th Summer of Fun and Learning.

The main instructors for the 2 sessions from early June until mid-August, were Master Shinmin, MyungSa Jonathan, and MyungSa Ryan, assisted by Susa Musa Korin and Susa Alina.

This year's Celebration Day, held on August 2nd, invited the Taekwondo campers to the Dojang to display what they practiced at Iona University to earn their next rank. Master Chun Shim judged the day's promotion. Many Challenge Camp Alumni were present, either as Susa Leaders cheering on the candidates or participating themselves after training in session 1 and/or 2. Some CC Alumni who have continued their training from years past are Susa Chloe R. (Bodan Yellow belt), Gavin G. (Red/Black belt), Susa Arden J. (Red belt), Talia A. (Blue belt), Rhea M. (White belt), Owen B. (Red belt), Audrey G. (Red/Black belt), Max E. (Green belt), Kiaan M. (Green belt), Susa Benjamin B. (Red belt), Susa Madison D. (Purple belt), Ethan D. (Purple belt), Lucas R. (Blue belt), Isla R. (Green belt), and Susa Musa Kaylia J. (Black belt). Extra congratulations to those who achieved a new belt rank: Miles M. (white to yellow belt), Shoshana E. (yellow to orange), Isla R. (orange to green belt), Emma G. (orange to green belt).

When students begin at Challenge Camp, they are taught the white belt curriculum. They study the three important trainings for Self-Respect (Jung Choong, Ki Jaang, Shin Myung). Any color belts who choose to do Taekwondo at CC review their current rank requirements (poomse, kicking combination, board breaking, principle). Classes finish with Korean Taichi Qigong and/or Meditation and a discussion on the Hong Ik Philosophy of contributing to the prosperity of the world community. Celebration Day additionally featured board breaking and Hyunsa/Susa/Musa demonstration.

Thank you to all Challenge Camp staff. We very much enjoy the opportunity to be a part of this continuously evolving program.

https://youtu.be/HH-9JszjswE

- written by: Shin Min HyunSa (Master Patrick Malonso)

Church Street Multicultural Night 2026: Church Street Elementary School

On the beautiful Friday evening of April 17th Church Street Elementary School in White Plains hosted their annual Multicultural Celebration. The Church Street PTA was kind enough to welcome Hong Ik Martial Arts of New Rochelle back a third time to celebrate with them and showcase what HIMA represents. A dedicated team of SUSA and MUSA students brought their loud voices and bright spirits to the event and were happy to contribute back to the community.

The team, including Church Street School students Genevieve and William To, displayed Hong Ik skills such as a nunchuck poomse, MUSA qigong and kicking, SUSA kicking, sword skills, and board breaking. Most importantly after their demo they had time to welcome children at the event to learn some basic skills like punching and kicking. Some of the students were even able to break boards.

It is not always easy to go into a new space and perform for people you do not know. The gym was full of families enjoying the event and they were tasked with taking the center of the room for their performance. This team was able to rise above any distractions or nerves and put their best efforts towards providing a great demonstration. The demos performed by HIMA are always an amazing opportunity to witness the harmony amongst SUSA and MUSA students and their dedication to spreading Hong Ik philosophy to the world.

https://youtu.be/nk5bBWWdBYw

– by Ashley Malonso, Hong Ik Martial Arts of New Rochelle

2026 WARD Back to School BBQ: William B. Ward Elementary School

Staff Masters: Master Shinmin, Master Dahnsong, Master Malcolm 

Assisting Susas/Musas/Jr. Leaders: Mentor Korin B., Mentor Anabella Scheck, Mentor Raegan Mytides, Recruit Ava B., Recruit Kensington Konen, Mari Holly B., Mari Harper Mytides, Isla R., Lucas R. 

On Saturday, September 19th, Hong Ik Martial Arts of New Rochelle participated in the 2026 Back To School BBQ held at William B. Ward Elementary School.  The event took place from 4 - 7 PM.  Among the day's activities were Bounce Slides, Obstacle Courses, and Carnival Games. 

The HIMA team gathered together to give mini-lessons to any children interested in trying Taekwondo.  Furthermore, they displayed the various training programs featured at the school to exemplify leadership and character building.  We hope everyone experienced personal growth and greater connection with one another through this annual occasion.

A special thank you to the chair of the committee Jessica Edelman and the entire Ward Elementary School PTA for having us at this great event!

https://youtu.be/qm6aDof9-Mk

- written by: Shin Min HyunSa (Master Patrick Malonso)