2026 Challenge Camp | Hong Ik Martial Arts of New Rochelle
2026 CHALLENGE CAMP – HIMA New Rochelle
Hong Ik Martial Arts of New Rochelle led the Taekwondo program for the 2026 Challenge Camp hosted at Iona University. Challenge Camp is ACA accredited and this year marked its 46th Summer of Fun and Learning. The main instructors for the 2 sessions from early June until mid-August, were Master Shinmin, MyungSa Jonathan, and MyungSa Ryan, assisted by Susa Musa Korin and Susa Alina. This year’s Celebration Day, held on August 2nd, invited the Taekwondo campers to the Dojang to display what they practiced at Iona University to earn their next rank. Master Chun Shim judged the day’s promotion. Many Challenge Camp Alumni were present, either as Susa Leaders cheering on the candidates or participating themselves after training in session 1 and/or 2. Some CC Alumni who have continued their training from years past are Susa Chloe R. (Bodan Yellow belt), Gavin G. (Red/Black belt), Susa Arden J. (Red belt), Talia A. (Blue belt), Rhea M. (White belt), Owen B. (Red belt), Audrey G. (Red/Black belt), Max E. (Green belt), Kiaan M. (Green belt), Susa Benjamin B. (Red belt), Susa Madison D. (Purple belt), Ethan D. (Purple belt), Lucas R. (Blue belt), Isla R. (Green belt), and Susa Musa Kaylia J. (Black belt). Extra congratulations to those who achieved a new belt rank: Miles M. (white to yellow belt), Shoshana E. (yellow to orange), Isla R. (orange to green belt), Emma G. (orange to green belt).
When students begin at Challenge Camp, they are taught the white belt curriculum. They study the three important trainings for Self-Respect (Jung Choong, Ki Jaang, Shin Myung). Any color belts who choose to do Taekwondo at CC review their current rank requirements (poomse, kicking combination, board breaking, principle). Classes finish with Korean Taichi Qigong and/or Meditation and a discussion on the Hong Ik Philosophy of contributing to the prosperity of the world community. Celebration Day additionally featured board breaking and Hyunsa/Susa/Musa demonstration.
Thank you to all Challenge Camp staff. We very much enjoy the opportunity to be a part of this continuously evolving program.
– written by: Shin Min HyunSa (Master Patrick Malonso)