Instructor Profile: Mike Tuohy, 5th Dan

Mr Tuohy started martial arts in 1977 attaining a brown belt in wado ryu karate, moved to Canada in 1981 and started training in taekwon-do in 1986. He joined Tecumseh in 1987, and attained a 1st degree black belt in 1993. He was one of the founding members of Chinook TaeKwon-Do, along with Mr. Moretti, in 1994 Together, they ran the University of Calgary Chinook TaeKwon-Do club until 2007, when they both returned to Tecumseh. Mr Tuohy attained his 5th degree black belt from master Stanley in 2009, and he also holds a brown belt in jujitsu.

What do you love about TaeKwon-Do?
I love the challenge it presents to both body and mind as the aging process goes forward. Plus, I love to watch students progress from 2-left-feet students to competent marital artists.

What is your favourite TDK Technique, and why?
I find the techniques we progress to while doing advanced patterns are more demanding and challenging,and can be practised at any time and anywhere.

What advice might you have for younger or new TKD practitioners?
If you like it when you start, you`ll love it when you get the hang of it. Perseverance is the key.

What are you favourite pasttimes?
Training Tae Kwon Do, going to gym, and travel.

Favourite sports?
TKD, TKD, TKD! And some golf [if you could call it that].

Current job/career/studies?
I have been involved in the automotive business all my life. I have run my own auto dealership since 1982. I'm also the current president of the Irish Cultural Society of Calgary.

Any TKD Distinctions?
Until recent years, I have participated in tournaments at national, provincial and local level, and have won my fair share of medals. But to me, the most important thing is the friends you make while participating in the art of Tae Kwon Do.