International Martial Arts Academy Master Torkornoo

  March 21, 2014, 3:49 pm

By Kara Traveller

Taekwondo, a mental and physical discipline designed over 2000 years with the ultimate goal of mental and physical health, is both an ancient Korean Martial Art and a modern International Olympic sport. Saratoga Springs is home to the International Martial Arts Academy and Master Torkornoo.

Master Augustine Torkornoo is currently a Kukkiwon 5th Dan Black Belt. He began Taekwondo at the age of eight years old in his native country of Ghana. Master Torkornoo is well respected in the Taekwondo community and has actively organized and coached in local, national, and international Taekwondo events. Master Torkornoo has constantly maintained an active role in developing high-level athletes from all over the world and helping them achieve their goals and dreams.

As a high-level athlete himself, Master Torkornoo has quite the record—being a former Ghana Taekwondo National and Olympic Team Member from 1995 to 2004. He has been directing the Utah State Tournaments since 2005. In 2013, he was recognized and inducted into the martial arts hall of fame. He is currently the Ghana National Taekwondo Olympic Coach.

The International Martial Arts Academy first opened in Saratoga Springs in January of 2004; it is located at 2032 Hillcrest Road. The school is a top-of-the-line Taekwondo training facility specifically designed for martial arts training. Taekwondo programs and classes are divided into a variety of levels and age groups.

Master Torkornoo feels Taekwondo isn't just about kicking and punching. One of the

valuable lessons to learn from the martial art of Taekwondo is learning to meet challenges head on and overcoming our trials in life. Master Torkornoo feels Taekwondo can enhance self-esteem by heightening your physical and mental powers and build confidence by encouraging you to succeed and to take control of your life. He feels you can develop increased level of discipline by thoroughly training your body and mind in the tenets of Taekwondo: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indomitable Spirit.