Thanks so much everyone, I've been so busy training at home and at class that I had completely missed this thread! It's great to feel the support of my fellow MAPpers, it's much appreciated Gradings don't get easier as you get older, and the real value in them is the effort you put in, so it felt great to pass after a good run in of consistent hard work. Thanks all, and best wishes in your endeavours too
The head of our group is now 9th Dan, as was the founder of TKD himself, so that's the ceiling. Our grades up to and including 5th Degree are done by examination, but beyond that they are honorary titles so my next grading will be my last test. I'll be around 55 by then, if I grade as soon as I'm eligible, so I'm hoping I hold together for it; last night's class under my Instructor was movement and kicking counters for sparring, with lots of spinning kicks, and my legs are feeling it today...