Sixty students from Vitality Martial Arts in Woodland participated in the 2025 United Mirae Kuk Sool (UMKS) Regional Martial Arts Invitational last weekend in Woodside with 200 competitors from around the world.

“Vitality Martial Arts was honored and proud to represent the Woodland community at such an inspiring and competitive event,” said co-owner Justin Bunn. “We congratulate all our competitors, promotees and performers who continued to elevate the art and spirit of United Mirae Kuk Sool through their excellence, sportsmanship and dedication to martial arts.”

Six martial artists from Vitality Martial Arts were promoted to various black belt and master levels by UMKS Founder, CSJKJN Sungjin Su:

Jo Kyo Nim (1st Degree Black Belt): Marlene Solis Castillo, Ivetzi Solis Castillo and Alexander Ugan Brenes

Kyo Sa Nim (2nd Degree Black Belt): Vincent Andrew Moore

Bu Sa Bum Nim (3rd Degree Black Belt): Instructor Kaylana Bunn

Tae Baek Kwan Jahng Nim (5th Degree Black Belt/Master): Owner and Instructor Tiffany Bunn

Vitality student, 3rd Degree Black Belt Teo Eibensteiner, was presented with a Certificate of Honor for overcoming challenges related to cerebral palsy and hearing loss.

“As Teo’s story was read aloud, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room,” said Tiffany Bunn, cofounder, Vitality Martial Arts. “The certificate recognized his unwavering spirit, resilience, and dedication over 16 years of training. Despite the challenges of cerebral palsy and being deaf in both ears, Teo has never once complained, bringing more than 100% effort to every class. His strength of character, humility and perseverance have made him a role model to students of all ages, proving that with heart and soul, no obstacle is too great.”

Danielle Starkweather, a black belt candidate (Dahn Bo Nim), was awarded the prestigious title of Color Belt Ultimate Mirae Ki Cho Hyung and Mirae Cho Geup Hyung Champion. She earned top honors in her age division (30+), then went on to compete in front of the entire audience—including the UMKS Founder—against all other age group winners from under 8 to 29 years old.

Bu Sa Bum Nim Kaylana Bunn, a Vitality instructor, was named 2nd Dahn Mirae Champion for the Under 40 Division, earning 1st Place — Bae Ki Hyung (Advanced Sword Form), 1st Place — Bong 2 Hyung (Advanced Staff Form) and 3rd Place — Self Defense/Fight Choreography. With 12 out of a possible 15 points, she stood out as a top-tier competitor among an elite field.

The event culminated in a martial arts demonstration. Local performers included:

DBN Isabella Garcia, showcasing her 1st place self-defense routine

DBN Danielle Starkweather, performing her award-winning Mirae forms

GGKJN Justin Bunn, demonstrating Pyung Soo Hyung (Hand Striking Form)

The Vitality Martial Arts Demonstration Team also delivered a dynamic performance, highlighting skill, synchronization and teamwork. Team members included: BSBN Becki Santistevan, BSBN Ed Walters, JKN Olivia Inta, JKN Bella Gankin, JKN Thomas Starkweather, JKN Jacob Komula, JKN Oscar Martinez, JKN Diego Martinez, DBN Isabella Boites-Troth, DBN Anahi Vega and Benji Vega.

For more information, visit https://vitality-martialarts.com/.