Local karateka grades to red belt

This was after he went through a tough grading on 27 April. Owner of Yin-Yang Karate and Self- Defence Studio, sensei Annatjie de Jager said that the grading was tough mentally and physically, however, he pulled through.

“It consisted of basics, kata, kumite, graplings and effective weaponless defence and attacks. It requires a high fitness standard,” she explained.

She further added that an intelligent mind is never satisfied.

“It will always continue to create new levels of perfection which the body struggles to achieve. This is progress,” she said.

De Jager concluded with a quote by Gichin Funakoshi which states, “the ultimate aim of the art of karate lies not in victory or defeat but in the perfection of the character of its participants.” The other karatekas are preparing for upcoming gradings and the annual national competition in Brits from 8 to 10 October.