Caitlyn Hynes, 18, of Kenmore and Sadie Sheller, 8, of Brier recently received their black belts at Shin’s TaeKwonDo Academy of Kenmore.

Sheller was awarded a junior black belt, the designation given candidates under the age of 16.

Earning a black belt at Shin’s requires a minimum of three years’ study, training and testing. The students learn the skills and gain the strength and confidence to complete the rigorous black-belt test. The test includes demonstration of skills, board breaking and Korean vocabulary. Students must also successfully complete a grueling series of physical exercises as part of the test.