Master Kim Geary is an anomaly of sorts, and an amazing one at that. Having reached the pinnacle of her art form, one that requires intense discipline, focus and lifelong dedication, Geary was recently inducted into the Texas Martial Arts Hall of Fame (on Saturday, May 15, 2004), with the rare distinction of being the highest ranked woman in the system of Chayon-Ryu martial arts worldwide. “I felt legitimately ranked, and appreciative,” says Geary of the honor.

Throughout 28 years studying martial arts, Geary has taught at Houston and Rice Universities, Midland College and the Korean Community School in Houston, among others. The now internationally recognized martial artist is currently senior instructor at Kim Soo Martial Arts in Austin. She is also in the process of completing a Chayon-Ryu textbook, covering proper technique and form.

Geary first began studying martial arts when she was in college. “The tennis class was full, so I took a karate class. I was drawn to how beautiful it was and the art of it,” she remembers. Looking back now, Geary believes that her continual involvement in martial arts has made her a more balanced and peaceful person.

“It made me not afraid to do things, like going back to college at age 25. I would never have done that if I didn’t have a black belt. It gave me confidence that I didn’t have [initially],” she admits.

When asked how the study of martial arts differs from other sports, Geary answers definitively. “It’s about an individual’s path, it’s non-competitive and you really are urged to be a good citizen within the school.” And Geary has been thrilled to have the opportunity to pass on her wisdom to younger students. In fact, one of her proudest moments came when a female student relayed how she was able to defend herself simpy by using skills learned in class. “The student was able to take her attacker down using her techniques, and she attributes it to her training,” Geary beams.

Ultimately, Geary sees herself as a mentor and an inspirational teacher. “I would like to produce one true teacher, someone who keeps on teaching,” she says.
Surely she is on her way to meeting that goal head-on, while continuing to hone her rare martial arts skill and expertise. For more information about Chayon-Ryu martial arts, Master Kim Geary or to sign up for a class, call 462-2787 or visit www.kimsoo-austin.com.