By Isle of Wight Observer
Newport IOW Shotokan Karate Club has announced the successful promotion of five students, who have passed their Sho-Dan grading, achieving their first-degree black belt.
The students are Zach Tigwell, 17, who is studying A-levels at Cowes Enterprise College, Jessica Osman, 14, also a student at Cowes Enterprise College, Redford Bonner, 17, who is studying horticulture, Brian Roberts, store manager at Premier Ford,t and Robert Morrison, who works for the NHS.
The grading took place during a recent Shotokan of England Karate Union course. After a two-hour training session, the students went on to complete the grading, which included basic techniques, kata, or set moves, and two styles of kumite, or sparring.
A spokesman for the club said each student had shown strong commitment and dedication throughout their training, helping them achieve this significant milestone in their karate journey.