John Sun has successfully graded to Shodan (1st Dan), whilst Sharon Joseph has been awarded Nidan (2nd Dan)following the SKIF-GB Dan Gradings held in Nottingham on 19th July 2026.
The grading took place after the two-day 52nd SKIF-GB Summer Gasshuku, where candidates had the opportunity to train under Ishikawa Hanshi (9th Dan), Founder and Chief Instructor of SKIF Mexico. Completing two intensive days of technical training before stepping onto the grading floor made these achievements all the more significant.
A Demanding Examination
Dan gradings represent one of the most important milestones in a karateka’s journey. Unlike kyu gradings, there is no guarantee of success, and candidates are expected to demonstrate not only technical proficiency but also composure, spirit, resilience and consistency under pressure.
This year’s grading saw 16 candidates attempt promotion, with 14 successful:
- 9 promoted to Shodan (1st Dan)
- 3 promoted to Nidan (2nd Dan)
- 2 promoted to Sandan (3rd Dan)
The results are a reminder that Dan grades are earned, not given. Every candidate steps onto the floor knowing there is a genuine possibility of being asked to continue their preparation before attempting again. That willingness to test oneself is an important part of karate and deserves respect, regardless of the outcome.
Kihon
The examination began with Kihon, where candidates demonstrated the fundamental techniques appropriate to the grade they were attempting.
Examiners assessed posture, power, timing, balance, coordination, kime and spirit. Although often referred to as “basics”, Kihon remains the foundation of all Shotokan Karate and is expected to improve throughout a practitioner’s entire karate career.
Kata
Candidates were then required to perform two kata.
The first was selected at random by the examination panel from either the Heian series or Tekki Shodan, ensuring candidates were prepared across the syllabus rather than relying solely on their strongest kata.
Each candidate then performed their Tokui Kata—their speciality kata—which allowed them to demonstrate their highest level of technical ability, rhythm, balance and understanding.
For Kyōtō’s candidates:
- John Sun performed Bassai Dai, a dynamic kata characterised by powerful techniques, strong stances and decisive changes in rhythm.
- Sharon Joseph performed Nijūshiho, an advanced kata requiring refined body control, fluid transitions, precise timing and subtle expression of power.
Both delivered confident performances that reflected the dedication and preparation they had invested over many months.
Shobu Ippon Kumite
The final section of the grading consisted of Shobu Ippon Kumite, with candidates taking part in between one and three fights, depending on the requirements of the grading panel.
Rather than simply looking for competitive success, examiners assessed timing, distancing, control, fighting spirit, awareness, commitment and the practical application of Shotokan principles under pressure.
A Journey That Never Ends
One of the great strengths of traditional karate is that learning never stops. Every grading, whether successful or otherwise, provides valuable feedback and highlights areas for further improvement.
Kyōtō had four members preparing for Dan promotion. Unfortunately, Annabel Bishop, who had been due to attempt Sandan (3rd Dan), was forced to withdraw after breaking her hand during kumite training the week before the grading. While hugely disappointing after months of preparation, Annabel made the sensible decision to prioritise her recovery and will undoubtedly return to attempt her grading in the future.
Among those who did take to the floor were two of Kyōtō’s senior instructors. Neil Bishop (attempting Sandan) and Nick Bruce-Jones (attempting Yondan) were unsuccessful on this occasion and will return to retake their examinations.
Their willingness to step forward, accept the result with humility and continue training is an excellent example to every student in the dojo. It reinforces an important lesson that we often share at Kyōtō: failure is not the opposite of success—it is part of the journey. Whether recovering from injury, falling just short of the required standard or achieving promotion, every experience offers an opportunity to learn and grow.
Congratulations
We are immensely proud to congratulate:
- John Sun on achieving Shodan (1st Dan) following an excellent performance that included Bassai Dai as his Tokui Kata.
- Sharon Joseph on achieving Nidan (2nd Dan), performing Nijūshiho as her Tokui Kata and reaching another significant milestone in her karate journey.
These promotions are the culmination of years of consistent training, perseverance and dedication. While a Dan grade is a tremendous achievement, it also marks the beginning of a new chapter, where expectations become higher and the pursuit of technical excellence continues.
Congratulations to John and Sharon on this thoroughly deserved success.
We also wish Annabel a full and speedy recovery and look forward to seeing her attempt Sandan in the near future. To Neil and Nick, we offer our respect and encouragement. Your determination to continue learning and to return stronger exemplifies the true spirit of Shotokan Karate and serves as an inspiration to every member of the Kyōtō family.