12/12/2011: Black Belt Gradings
As usual, there were two Black Belt Gradings in 2011. The first one in early July in a new venue had a large group of candidates being assessed. Sensei Mark Case, along with Senseis James Gray, Joe van Strijp and Daniel Tregenza took the class through their paces. The grading followed a more traditional format than some recently, with Basics, Kicks, Stances, Combos and more Combos being led by the Examiners.
Kata followed after the break, with finally those being assessed performing their "grading kata" for the panel. Time for kumite, and several rounds followed before yame was called. It was an anxious wait for those being assessed as the panel discussed the performances on the night. Finally the class was called to order and it was time for the announcements. Congratulations to Kevin Boyd, Sharon Edwards, Chris Ford, Carol Blackford and John Edgar on grading to Shodan-ho and to Tegan Miller, Jason Spiteri, Angel Marsden, Ryan Edwards, Steve Wilson and Julie Cook on grading to Shodan.
July Grading Students
December Grading Students
The second Black Belt Grading was held on Thursday 1st December at Secombe High School. This spacious venue has been the scene of many gradings and special classes over the years. Once again the same panel, led by Sensei Mark Case, oversaw the assessment. It was a bit harder grading than some as one candidate was being assessed for Nidan, with others being looked at for higher grades.
A similar format was followed with of course extra kata and additional rounds of sparring. At the end of the night, the results were announced and congratulations go to Mark Ingle, Tabatha Ingle, Andre Langos, Rodney Gray, Tony Blackford and Mr X on grading to Shodan-ho. Congratulations to Tanya Tregenza, Nik McDonald, Mary Bambacus and Terry Hart on grading to Shodan and Ian Rollings to Nidan.
