After nearly a decade of dedicated training, Sue has proudly received her new Shodan black belt (kuro obi) — a milestone representing years of perseverance, commitment, and personal growth through karate.
For many karateka, a black belt is far more than part of a uniform. It symbolises the countless hours spent training in the dojo, overcoming challenges, refining technique, and continuing forward even on the difficult days. Every mark, crease, and stitch eventually becomes part of that journey.
Sue passed her Shodan grading in July after almost 10 years of consistent training at Kyōtō Shotokan Karate Dojo in Bristol. Achieving black belt level was a hugely meaningful moment and reflected the determination and dedication she has shown throughout her karate journey.
Now, after earning the grade itself (read more here), Sue has received her new embroidered Hirota black belt — a belt that she will likely wear for many years to come.
We would also like to thank Hirota / Kuroobiya for their excellent service and craftsmanship.
Interested in starting your own karate journey in Bristol? Visit Kyōtō Shotokan Karate Dojo Bristol to learn more about our beginner and family karate classes.
The belt features beautiful silver embroidery, including the kanji of the SKIF organisation on one side and the name of the late Hanshi Shiro Asano on the other, showing respect to the instructor who guided so many karateka within SKIF-GB.
When karate becomes part of your life, the items connected to that journey naturally carry significance. A black belt is not simply awarded — it is built over years of training, sweat, discipline, setbacks, and progression.
Congratulations to Sue on an achievement that reflects not only technical ability, but also patience, resilience, and long-term commitment to traditional Shotokan karate.
