MASTER HARRIS VII
Meet MASTER HARRIS
Master Harris is known not only for his exceptional skill and experience in TaeKwon-Do, but for the impact he has had on the lives of those he teaches.
Calm, patient, and deeply principled, he leads by example and treats every student with respect, regardless of age or ability.
He is committed to pushing students to be their best both in and out of training, helping them develop confidence, discipline, and strong character.
Driven and kind hearted, Master Harris has built more than just a martial arts club — he has created a place where people find direction, focus, and purpose.
For many young people, his classes have been a turning point, providing structure, self-belief, and a positive outlet during challenging times.
For others, training has offered clarity, resilience, and a renewed sense of motivation in everyday life.
At the heart of his teaching is community. His club brings together like-minded individuals who are open, supportive, and respectful towards one another.
Friendships are formed, confidence is built, and students grow together both physically and mentally.
For many, his classes are a key part of their weekly routine — a place they belong.
For Master Harris, his students and his classes are not just a profession, but his life’s work.
He invests himself fully in every lesson, every grading, and every individual’s journey, continuing to guide and inspire generations through the values of TaeKwon-Do…
SIR’S STORY
Master Harris began his TaeKwon-Do journey in Cambodia in 1975, at around 14 years old. Having already trained in Judo, his curiosity and confidence led him into an altercation on the streets of Cambodia — an encounter where he was decisively outmatched by someone trained in ITF TaeKwon-Do.
Rather than discouraging him, the experience became a turning point, igniting his determination to learn the art.
Not long after, he attended a martial arts demonstration and witnessed ITF TaeKwon-Do firsthand — powerful board breaking, dynamic spinning kicks, and precise technique. The excitement, discipline, and effectiveness of what he saw left a lasting impression and firmly set him on his path. However, his training was soon disrupted when civil war broke out, forcing him to flee Cambodia.
He initially escaped to Bangkok, Thailand, where he trained in South Korean WT-style TaeKwon-Do for a year. By 1977, Master Harris moved to the United Kingdom, continuing his training and eventually achieving his black belt. In 1980, he joined the Royal Air Force, earning his 2nd Degree Black Belt during his service.
While stationed in Germany, Master Harris achieved his 3rd Degree Black Belt under a Korean Master and built an impressive competitive record, winning tournaments across Germany, Holland, and other parts of Europe. His time abroad further refined both his technical ability and teaching philosophy.
After returning to the UK, he left the RAF around 2000 and began teaching at what was then Esporta (now Virgin Active and Nuffield Health). Over the years, he has developed countless students into award-winning black belts and well-rounded individuals.
Master Harris has trained with some of the most respected figures in ITF TaeKwon-Do, including Grand Master Vassilis (Greece), Master Anslow (UK), Master Hwang Su-il (Japan), and a North Korean Grandmaster.
What Sets HIM Apart
diverse experience
Trained with multiple masters and grand masters around the world, from Japan, to Korea, to Germany.
dedication to the art
Dedication of over 50 years of his life to the art, now passing his knowledge onto his students, instilling values of teaching.
precision
Dedication to technique; whether it is patterns, linework or sparring technical aspects must be spot on.
Widely respected for his experience, dedication, and humanity, Master Harris continues to shape the next generation of martial artists — passing on not just techniques, but values that last a lifetime.
