Ryan R. Pugh, a resident of Hannastown Road, recently completed requirements for a fourth degree black belt in tae kwon do, earning the rank of master.

Pugh, 40, is a student at Zang Taekwon-do in Warrendale and was tested by Master Robert Zang, a seventh degree black belt.

On Oct. 21, Pugh completed 18 patterns, one-step self-defense techniques, four-directional continuous break with three boards each, a seven-board power break, weapons demonstration and choreographed a fighting skit. He also faced a continuous sparring match with four other black belts and presented terminology.

Pugh began training in 1998 with Young Brothers Tae Kwon-Do at the Butler and Cranberry schools.

Pugh instructs at both Zang’s and Makowski’s Marital Arts in Sarver. He also teaches woman’s self-defense and cardi-kick boxing classes.

He regularly competes in open tournaments and has taken first places for weapons and sparing.