Life & Work with Grace Blackmer of Traverse City

Today we’d like to introduce you to Grace Blackmer.

Hi Grace, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started Martial Arts in 2005 after retiring from a career in contemporary dance. Songahm Taekwondo is a system that is heavily based in patterns and forms, training with weapons, hand to hand combat, stick sparring, open hand sparring, and board breaking. In 2006 I began competing in the national circuit. Since then, I have earned 16 State titles, 4 District titles, and received 2nd place at World Championships twice. I was awarded judge of the year in 2023 for the region of Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. Over the past 20 years, I have strived to share my passion for martial arts with those of all ages. I purchased my school in February 2020 and immediately my resolve was put to the test with the Pandemic. After suffering significant loss, my team and I rebuilt Martial Arts Grand Traverse back from ground level. I continue to offer classes for all ages and all walks of life, as well as compete and train nationally.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Not a smooth road at all. After purchasing the school in February 2020, the pandemic took 97% of my student base. My team at the time quit and I was left to pick up the pieces. I formed a new team and we have worked tirelessly to rebuild what was lost.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in traditional Taekwondo focusing on forms, weapons, sparring, combat, self-defense, and board breaking. I am most proud of rebuilding the school when the staff quit and my family stepped up and created a whole new environment, where everyone is welcome and encouraged to push themselves. We have a motto of failure gives you 2 options: 1. Quit 2. Get better. We provide a community where we are all supportive of each others wins and encourage through the losses.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Our system is ranked so I have a senior who is under our regional Grand Master. There are strict rules to keep the organization running smoothly and the curriculum to be the most cohesive option in Taekwondo. Everyone is a team and the seniors support the juniors so it allows for success not just on the mat, but logistically as well.

Pricing:

• 8 week start up membership
• Includes uniform
• pay in full $198 or 2 payments of $99
• Family options available
• check website for details!

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.martialartsgrandtraverse.com