Show Notes
Keith Kelly is a 8th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo whose martial arts journey began at 16 years old at the South Second Street Youth Center in Plainfield, New Jersey, under the instruction of Joe Tucker.
As a young red belt, he entered the AAU Karate circuit in 1979 and quickly made an impression—earning an invitation to try out for the National AAU Karate Team. After receiving his black belt in early 1980, he continued his training under Grandmaster Ki Chung Kim and Master Tony Alvarez, sharpening his technique and preparing for the highly competitive tournament scene that lay ahead.
Through the early 1980s, Keith—alongside teammates Mark Williams and future Olympic gold medalist Herb Perez—became a dominant force on the circuit. Together, they captured an estimated 80 championships, including major victories at the prestigious All American Open at Madison Square Garden and podium finishes at the AAU Taekwondo Nationals, where Keith earned both gold and silver medals.
But Keith’s legacy stretches far beyond competition. Since 1989, he has dedicated himself to teaching Taekwondo through after-school and Saturday programs, helping students build discipline, confidence, and character—skills that extend well beyond the dojang.
Now approaching retirement from his long career as a public school teacher, Keith has embraced a new creative path as an author. He has written seven children’s books, each inspired by the core principles and life lessons of Taekwondo.
Please welcome my guest today — Keith Kelly.
Peace Comes to Ajani
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