Extensive testing to reach black belt status

10 brown belt karatekas recently underwent extensive testing to see if they were to pass to first level black belt (Shodan).

From Ladysmith, Jeandre Minnaar, Abigail Crocker, Tharan Schulmann and Charles Schulman achieved this goal. Also from KZN were Arno Grobler, Aneke Grundling, Musa Nlovu, Mthunzi Mbatha, Cara Burns and Cathy van der Watt, who were also awarded their black belts.

After opening in 2011, Ladysmith has been one of the last towns to gain a JKA karate club in the KZN region.

After four years of hard work, blood, sweat and tears, we have gained four black belts.

Leading up to the grading were months of extensive training of approximately eight to 12 hours a week, together with dedication, commitment and a desire to achieve a goal that has been a lifelong dream for many – certainly since the beginning as a white belt (novice).

The gruelling three-hour session on Saturday morning was attended by senior brown belts and black belts under the guidance and experience of 6th Dan and undefeated world champion Sensei Johan La Grange, technical director and chief instructor of SA JKA.

The grading candidates were put through their paces, not only during the grading under a strict panel of judges, but also during the training session beforehand.

Speed and agility, kicks, blocks and punches were combined with hip movement to bring out maximum strength and power.

Changes to Kata and new techniques were taught and these needed to be incorporated into the grading by the candidates – a feat not easily mastered under such tense and stressful moments.

Congratulations to all the candidates who passed their grading and to all the Sensei who helped them reach this point. It is a wonderful achievement for the individual, the respective dojos and the region.

For any information on JKA karate, contact Shani Mason on 072-375-5174.

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