Weston Karate Club held its latest grading at Hutton Moor Leisure Centre.

CONGRATULATIONS go to students from Weston Karate Club who participated in their Christmas grading at Hutton Moor Leisure Centre.

Several of the club’s beginners took part in their first grading and all successfully and confidently demonstrated what they had learned in their weekly training sessions.

Gradings are held every three months and it is usual for junior grade students under 16 years to take a mon grade, which is half a belt or tag. However, due to the high standards set by the students, the majority achieved a double grade and earned their full belt.

The instructors normally award a prize to the most improved student. On this occasion Shou Shou Jin was singled out by the examiners because he demonstrated great enthusiasm and body control.

An extra prize was also awarded and went to a student that had joined recently from a different style of karate. Floyd Geldenhuys showed that determination, effort and hard work pays off, as he gained his red belt.

Grades have to be earned and it can be a slow process for some, especially on the higher grades. The grading was followed by a mock grading for five senior students, who are hoping to take their black belts soon.