Regional Karate Grading: March 2023

A large cohort of the South-West and Wales Region of the SKIF-GB came together on Saturday at St Bede’s School, Bristol, to enjoy some combined training and, for many, to attempt their next grading.

The first regional event since the formal recognition of the South-West and Wales Region by SKIF-GB, we enjoyed an interesting and challenging training session under Sensei Dave Griffiths, 7^th Dan, where we worked on a number of kihon combinations before splitting the group to focus on Gohon and Ippon Kumite and then breaking down into smaller groups to run through our kata.  Sharing the gymnasium with some indoor cricketers could have been a distraction but good concentration was maintained by all and we got great value from the training, readying many for the subsequent grading.

In all, nearly 50 karateka enjoyed the training with some 38 going on to grade, the majority at Kyu level.  Everyone brought their A-Game to the grading and impressed the grading panel of Sensei Dave, assisted by Sensei Nick Bruce-Jones, everyone achieving their targeted grade.  While it would be wrong to highlight individuals when all performed so well, special congratulations must go to Sharon, Matti and Alphie on earning their 3^rd Kyu and to Ada for a very impressive performance earning herself 7^th Mon at her first grading.

Warm thanks is due to all who came for the training without going on to grading.  Alaina did particularly well, training hard and with focus and supporting her brother Alphie for his grading.  Special thanks is also due to Sensei Neil, 2^nd Dan and to Adorna, 1^st Kyu, for helping make the grading run smoothly.

Finally, and most importantly, Kyoto SKC and the South-West and Wales Region are deeply indebted to Sensei Steve Ashby, Kyoto SKC Chief Instructor, for all his work in organising the event, and managing all the administration for the gradings.

Oss.