Instructor Mark A. Meighan of the Downtown Columbia Club got their start at the MU Youn Wha Ryu Club. Mark trained under 4th DanGabe McKinnis .and gained much teaching experience under Gabe and 4th Dan Natalie Eichor (now Master Natalie Meighan, 5th Dan) at Brookfield Martial Arts , where he served as assistant instructor, gaining instructor certification in the spring of 2001. In September of 2001 Mark started the Downtown Columbia Martial Arts Club along with Ronna Rothenberger.
This club boasts a fun and friendly atmosphere mixed with a high level workout. Classes are for all experience levels and for children age 6 and up as well as adults (you are never too old to start!!)
Promotional testings occur every two months in one of our local schools and are conducted by Grandmaster Han Master Yujin Han or Master Ceth Jordan, 6th Dan. Students are also encouraged to train at any of the over 40 schools throughout Missouri, as well as schools throughout the country.
TheYoun Wha System promotes self-improvement through gains in physical and mental fitness, alertness and confidence. There are opportunities for members to undergo instructor training and to teach at other schools if they desire. Although competition is not the main emphasis of the club, the association now hosts four tournaments per year in Missouri and members are encouraged to attend.
A typical class consists of a warm up routine, traditional forms and basic training as well as kicks. Also incorporated are such techniques as one-step fighting, sparring, and our Youn Wha self defense system!
