Promotion Testing on Saturday brought out the best in everyone: a spirited mix of determination, discipline, and skill. From new color belts taking moving on up to black belts refining advanced forms, students showed composure, focus, and genuine passion for the art.
Now we celebrate an extraordinary achievement. Bella Orta began her 4th Degree Black Belt testing nearly a year ago and has now completed the final segment, earning the title of Master of Traditional Taekwondo.
Her journey has been defined by years of steady work, patience, and dedication to the art. Bella’s calm confidence, sharp technique, and quiet determination continue to inspire everyone at LOMA. It’s an honor to officially recognize her as Master Orta.
After a return to training this year after a long layoff, Cate and Dr. Robert Meyer have
Her father, Steven Orta, also tested this month for his Recommended Black Belt, showing that martial arts truly runs in the family. Congratulations to both for representing the best of what Live Oak stands for.
We also recognize Nolan and McKale Smith, who demonstrated strong focus and technical precision during their tests. Special thanks to their father, Keith Smith, for serving as one of the judges on the panel.