Instructors and students from Exmouth Karate Academy have just attended a week-long course in Paignton with five of the top KUGB instructors in the UK.
On the final day, Exmouth’s David Slater became the club’s newest Shodan (black belt).
David trained alongside students from all over the country before demonstrating in front of head instructors Andy Sherry 9th Dan and Frank Brennan 8th Dan.
This comprised of: Kihon, basic techniques performed to exact standards: Kata, a set sequence of moves, firstly an advanced Kata then a lower grade Kata chosen by the examiners; Kumite, one to one combat, firstly a set of prearranged attacks then several minutes of free style fighting.
David’s determination and strength has been evident throughout all his training at Exmouth. This was needed when up against an opponent considerably taller. His persistent, forward attacking scoring with chudan (body) punches and ushiro geri (spinning back kick) proved him to be the better fighter.
Over the past two years the Exmouth club, under the tuition of Sensei Kevin Berry 3rd Dan, has been successful in many senior gradings.
Last year, Paul Hurley gained his Shodan after returning to karate from a break of several years. The previous year three students all gained their Shodans together. Jean Cooper, who had previously trained under senior instructor Billy Higgins, Joel Teague, who had previously trained in tae kwon-do and trained at Exmouth for several years and Richard Wellington, who had trained as a teenager at the Exmouth club in the 1970s, all successfully graded in front of Andy Sherry and Frank Brennan.
The club meets at The Cranford Sports Club in Exmouth on Wednesday and Friday nights and always welcomes new members from the age of eight years old, from complete beginners to experienced exponents.
On July 7, they are hosting the Exmouth Cup, an open competition of Shotokan Karate where spectators are welcome.
Find out more about all things Exmouth Karate Academy by visiting their Facebook page or website (www.exmouthkarate.com) for further details.
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