A taekwondo master closes shop

Editor’s note: This letter was submitted in early April and due to an oversight, did not make it into the newspaper earlier.

To the Taos Community:

It is with sincere regret and a saddened heart that I am announcing the closure of the Taos Taekwondo Academy. Due to the legitimate concerns and fears related to the COVID-19 virus as well as the required closing of all nonessential businesses until at least May 1, I am at the point that it is no longer financially viable for me to keep the taekwondo school open.

I started this school in 1981 when I moved to Taos. Over the past 39 years, I have had the privilege of working with thousands of students and parents in this community. I want to thank all of you for allowing me the opportunity to have a positive impact on your and your kid’s life through taekwondo training. To the hundreds of those who earned their black belt with me, I congratulate your effort and commitment.

Although there are so many in this community that have helped me in the success of the taekwondo school, I would like to specifically thank Dr. Stephen Cetrulo. He was the sole reason I moved to Taos and he was enormously instrumental in helping me start my taekwondo business.

To all my current students, I apologize for not being able to give you the opportunity to continue your training. I commend you for all the hard work you have put into your training regardless of what belt you have attained (be that white belt through black belt).

Moving forward, I plan to stay active in the ATA taekwondo community. I hope in the future to possibly offer training/seminars to the community of Taos in the areas of self-defense and personal protection. I can be reached at taostaekwondo@gmail.com.

Respectfully,

Master Dan Thor, Taos