Quick with a joke or a smile, Mr. Sullivan certainly makes his presence known in class. (As if his height alone wouldn’t make him stand out in class. 😉 Mr. Sullivan has been studying within the Mountain Academy of Martial Arts school for several years, and is often a favorite with the kids in class. Very patient, he is able to explain many complicated techniques to even our youngest of students. Although mostly found at MAMA Littleton these days, he still occasionally makes an appearance at the other MAMA locations.

1. What got you into taekwondo?

I had an interest as a youth but no $$$. When my son Evan started at another school, Master Ohara started teaching at Oracle. I joined to have a common interest w/ my son (now both sons are in TKD :).

2. What’s your favorite thing about taekwondo?

Knowing that there is always some technique I need to be improving, and learning new techniques.

3. Have you studied any other martial arts?

I have not studied another art but it’s on my list before 2nd degree test.

4. What do you do when you’re not doing taekwondo?

For fun: flyfishing, snowboarding, golf, ride bike (not for fun: work).

5. What aspect of taekwondo have you struggled most with?

I wish I had started at a younger age.

6. Favorite weapon and why?

Bo staff because I like the reach.

7. Favorite technique and why?

Inside out crescent kick because if done well it’s very hard to defend.

8. How has taekwondo changed you?

I have met many friends, and I get a lot of perspective, both from practicing TKD. Also I am in better shape and have fewer back problems and roll my ankles less.

9. What would you tell someone just starting out in martial arts?

Don’t be afraid of the commitment; it is well worth the time and efffort.

 10. What’s something most people don’t know about you?

I enjoy classical piano and musical theatre.

11. Favorite form?

Pyong E Dan

12. Favorite place?

Williams Fork River

13. Favorite book/author?

Peter the Great by Robert K. Massie

14. Favorite movie or tv show?

South Park

15. Favorite season?

Spring

16. Dream vehicle?

Jaguar e-Type V-12 convertible

17. Dream vacation?

Touring Europe (for as long as it takes)

18. What do you want to learn?

I’d like to learn to fly

19. Star Wars or Star Trek?

Star Wars

20. One thing you wish you were better at?

I wish I had more patience