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Ilkley club welcomes new black belts
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| Ilkley Karate Club's new black belt Liam Scott (left) with the club's world champion William Coates |
Ilkley Karate Club now in its 20th year has welcomed two new members to its ever-increasing group of black belts.
Sixteen year-old Andrew Johnston from Menston is now the fourth adult member of the club to gain the status of second degree black belt (2nd dan). Fellow club member Liam Scott (12) also successfully completed his grading to the rank of 1st degree black belt (1st dan).
The two Ilkley students achieved their long-term ambition after successfully completing a six hour mental and physical endurance to reach their goal. The black belt gradings are held at a national level and all students are graded by three of the most distinguished Karate Chief Instructors in England.
Both Ilkley students showed great confidence and concentration throughout the grading and this showed in the marks that they were awarded.
The examiners were very impressed with Liam's self defence techniques which showed flair and imagination with a variety of advanced moves, throws and sweeps.
Liam was assisted on the day by fellow club member and current world champion William Coates.
England squad member Andrew Johnston scored excellent marks in his kumite (free fighting) sections as he convincingly beat both opponents.
Club Instructor Mark Outterside commented: "You really need to prove yourself both technically and physically these days and if you do pass the grade of black belt, especially in our style of karate, you feel you have earned it. It takes on average four years from beginner to black belt level through the grading system".
The Ilkley club based at the Ben Rhydding Methodist Church will once again be attending the World Traditional Karate Championships and hope to bring back more world titles this year.
10:35am Thursday 27th March 2008
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