03/23/2026
A note from Mrs. Starnes on the strong amazing women who train at Star City TKD:
Huge congratulations to some truly incredible women from Star City Taekwondo who competed at our regional tournament this weekend in Concord 💪🥋
What makes this group so special is that every one of these women walked through our doors looking for something simple—exercise, a hobby to share with their kids, or just the courage to try something new. But like so many of us, they found something more: a community that lifts each other up, cheers each other on, and shows up for one another.
We have about a dozen women in our 30s and older who train together regularly—but this post is especially about the five who stepped onto the mat this weekend:
🥋 Mary Ellen, our newest member, needed a LOT of convincing to sign up. But she faced those nerves head-on, competed in her very first tournament, and walked away with TWO medals—silver and bronze!
🥋 Christi, a blue belt in only her second tournament, ended up sparring in a ring full of black belts (which is intimidating, to say the least)… and still held her own and earned a medal!
🥋 And Clare, Tami, and Janet—newer black belts who have trained side-by-side for the past three years, building not just skills but strong friendships. All three performed beautifully and earned medals in their events.
Medals aside, what matters most is this: they showed up. They faced fears. They stepped into a traditionally male-dominated sport later in life than most start a new sport and gave it everything they had.
Over the years, we’ve done more than just train together—we’ve hiked, shared meals, celebrated wins, and supported each other through tough times. That’s what makes this group so special.
I am so proud that each of these women chose Star City Taekwondo… so proud of them for trying something new in adulthood and excelling…. and even more proud to call them my friends ❤️