Winter Course & Dan Grading Results
Thank you to everyone who took part in our Winter Course on Sunday 30th November. We had Orange belts right up to 3rd Dan Black Belts in attendance and everyone worked really hard. The lower grades got chance to work with the black belts and everyone took this as a great opportunity to train with others they don’t normally get to work with. Huge thanks to Paul Towler from Kick and Flick photography who came along to take pictures at the course. These will be available to view and purchase soon and we will put a link on the Red Tiger Karate Group Facebook page.
The Dan Grading immediately followed the Winter Course with 27 RTK students and Instructors attempting the first or next Dan grades.
We would like to thank each and every person who came along to watch and support, it really does mean the World to the grading candidates to have you there cheering them on.
We are delighted to report that we have 12 new Shodans, 6 new Nidans, 1 new Sandan and 1 new Yondan. Before we say a few words about of each of these special students and the journey they have been on, we must mention those who have left this event without what they came for.
They were brave enough to try. They gave it everything they had on the day and they have nothing to be embarrassed about. Some had an off day, some were injured, some were trying to get a couple of sections passed before the new syllabus comes in. Some we feel, genuinely have the ability to do better, to train more and achieve what they are capable of.
Everybody did the work to be ready or their Instructor wouldn’t have sent them. Becoming a Black Belt is a marathon, not a sprint and nothing worth having comes easy. We make it hard for a reason. If you have been asked to come back and repeat a section do not give up in the last mile of your marathon. You aren’t the first and you won’t be the last not to pass at the first attempt. To FAIL is to take the ‘first attempt in learning’. You are so close and we are committed to helping you get where you need to be. It hurts to fail, but to not let it defeat you. You have persevered this far and now you know exactly what to focus on to make sure it doesn’t happen again.
If you return to class with an open mind and a determined attitude, then together we will finish what has been started. If you feel we have got it wrong, then you might as well go and buy yourself a black belt and put it on. If you would respect a ‘yes’ then you have to respect a ‘no’. The examiners have trained for many years, gained the knowledge & experience. They have earned the right to assess you. We stand by the decisions made on the day and if you disagree then you do not understand karate and we are not the Club for you. Karate begins and ends with respect. Nothing that matters more than respect.
To those who have passed, there is still so much to learn. If you are a new black belt, you have to settle into the belt. Learn how to represent it and set the example. You have earned what all of the beginners and kyu grades want. Continue to train your mind, body and spirit and push towards eventually doing your Nidan and beyond. Shodan means ‘Beginners level’. There is so much more to come and it is a lifelong journey. You now belong to a very special community.
If you got your Nidan, congratulations. You have internalised the movements and have reached a high level of competency. By now you have proved yourself and dedicated many years to the art. Keep motivated and know that there is still more to learn. More Katas, more kumite and a deeper level of understanding. You might also want to consider passing on the benefits of karate to others if you don’t already.
Sandan and Yondan are extraordinarily rare achievements and that is why there was only 2 people taking these grades. These grades represent a large percentage of your life that’s been dedicated to the study of the art. And it’s not just the physical practise and presence at lessons, you have reached a level of understanding the function and purpose behind the movements. You can demonstrate proficiently and you know exactly why you are doing it. You don’t treat karate as a tick box exercise. You live it and have made room for it in your life. It has shaped your character and identity. You have suffered and sacrificed for many years, experienced the ups & downs and the frustrations along the journey. But you’ve still made the conscious decision night after night, year after year to put that gi on, tie your belt and said ‘lets do it’. You’ve helped shape the journey of others and are giving back to karate. That to me - is what’s truly inspirational.
Yondan - 4th Dan Black Belt
Leesa Beckwith - Yondan
Congratulations to Leesa Sensei who has been training karate for over thirty years and is still going strong! Still as passionate about training as she was on day one. Leesa Sensei was tasked with choosing two high level katas, performing them and then explaining the Bunkai behind each move. She was also asked to provide a demonstration of advanced Jiyu Ippon Kumite due to medical exemption from jiyu kumite. Leesa Sensei hasn’t missed a beat since her last grading in 2021. She set herself a goal and has been working tirelessly for months and months to prepare for this grading and has been through countless Katas before settling on the two that suited her karate the most. Kata Meikyo and Kata Hangetsu. Both Katas were performed to an excellent standard and the bunkai demonstration with Helen Dolan Sensei was spot on. She was able to execute her movements with complete confidence, even defending an attack with a Bo Staff. We are absolutely delighted that Leesa Sensei has finally experienced a positive outcome at a grading after many years of shock, tears and disappointment. Not only has Leesa Sensei spent 30 years studying the art, she has been a Sensei for the majority of this time. She gives back. Leesa Sensei has travelled to Japan to study karate and learn from the very best Instructors in the World. She has inspired hundreds, if not thousands of students over the years with her hilarious teaching style, warm personality and infectious enthusiasm for karate. You’ll never leave a class with Sensei Leesa having not thoroughly enjoyed yourself and laughed out loud. She’s as bonkers as she is brilliant. Leesa Sensei has guided many students from Beginner to Black Belt over the years and is such a kind, selfless and generous person. She genuinely cares for her students and all the Instructor Team. She is great friend to many and family to us. Godmother to our children and somebody who makes laugh out loud every single day. Red Tiger would not be the Club that it has become without Leesa Sensei and Mike Sensei’s constant support, advice and encouragement. They are so giving with their time, they come to everything and we can always count on them to be there early to help set up and stay late to put everything away. We are so lucky to have you both and everything you do is appreciated by all of us, your students, your fellow Instructors and Paul Sensei and I. This Club means everything to them and they mean everything to us. All of us. The massive cheer from everyone on the day says it all. You are so loved! You fully deserve your Yondan and I’m sure you’ll keep going towards your Godan now you’ve cracked this grading malarkey, and I am sure Mike Sensei and Helen Sensei can’t wait to help you!
Sandan - 3rd Dan Black Belt
Lola Girault - Sandan
What a grading, what a student. One of the very best to do it. We have always known from the very beginning just how special Lola’s talent is. She has done it all, won it all and STILL absolutely loves it. Lola has a familiar story, starting way back when she was an infant at Primary School following one of our School demonstrations at Prestolee Primary. A lovely little angel face with a fierce fighting spirit walked into the dojo not knowing that she was about to become one of RTK brightest stars. She is our youngest ever Sandan and we are enormously proud be on this journey with her. Lola completes the full set of Girault Sandans as she follows in the footsteps of Mum Lily Sensei and big brother Kyle. I am sure that the whole family are just absolutely bursting with pride for this incredibly talented young lady. There is nothing she cannot do. Lola’s presence has been constant, I can’t think of event we’ve had where she hasn’t been there. She has competed for many years winning countless medals and even National Championships. She was a Student of the Year. Now, she generously gives her time to help us as an official and teaches the next future superstars in our lessons. We have watched her grow over the years into one of the most polite and humble young ladies you would ever be lucky enough to meet. There is no ounce of ego that can sadly creep in to some of teenagers. She fully understands the assignment and that karate is supposed to supress the ego not create the opposite.
Expectations were high on the grading day and we weren’t disappointed. She blew us away, even when we gave her the hardest Kata to perform - Gankaku, she just did it. And did it to an exceptional standard. She was just as impressive in the kumite section. Lola was able to pick off all of her opponents and land quick and effective counters. It took her a few rounds to start to get tired as her fitness level is incredible but once she did begin to tire, her fierce fighting spirit and steely determination took over (just like her Mum!) and she could still solve the puzzle, avoid damage and land techniques. This is what a true Sandan is made of. Her karate is class and is the direct result of well over a decade of dedication. Lola never misses a class and never fails to try. She makes karate look so easy when the reality is indeed the opposite. It is such a physically and mentally demanding art and Lola just makes it look effortless. She is a generational talent and one we are so fortunate to have in our Club. I know she is looking forward to the next chapter of her life and we know she is a capable of anything she puts her mind too. We are your biggest supporters and we hope that when you do go off to further education you will still come and see us and still carry on with karate. You’re a credit to the badge missus.
Nidan - 2nd Black Belt
Zoe Chaffer - Nidan
Brilliant grading from Zoe who has made remarkable progress between Shodan and Nidan. Through dedicated training she was increased her knowledge, strength and speed. She appeared to be much more calm and confident than we have ever seen her before. She has taken the preparation seriously and everything has been practised meticulously. Zoe’s combinations were excellent, as were her katas. She scored higher than average marks in both areas. She was brave and determined in the kumite section and I think this is perhaps where she has made the most improvement. There was no sign of self-doubt. She was composed, confident and put together some strong combinations. This grade is fully deserved well done Zoe.
Andy Matanle - Nidan
One of the original Darweners from the Nic Holland Sensei era, Andy has been doing karate for as long as I can remember. He’s always been an excellent student with natural talent. He is a fantastic role model in the Darwen classes and works closely alongside Jo Sensei and Gary Sensei to keep the standards incredibly high in this areas. Andy has been a Student of the Year and a great competitor over the years. When I saw his name on the grading candidates sheet I was excited to watch him spar and he didn’t disappoint me at all. His Kihon was strong, he could still do with relaxing but I’m sure he is the first to admit it. The Katas were very well practised and powerful and he looked like he thoroughly enjoyed the kumite section. We knew we would have to challenge him with back to back partners and no rest but he smashed it. He showed off a wide range of techniques and lightning quick counters. Amazing grading Andy, well done. Looking forward to seeing you back for the next one!
Joshua Mangnall - Nidan
Joshua has made immeasurable improvement between Shodan and Nidan and has never missed a beat. One of our most dedicated students, Joshua trains several times a week travelling all over Manchester just to train in karate. He is every event we put on and really enjoys his training. He’s done everything within his power to prepare himself properly for this grading including 1:1 sessions and we are delighted that all of his hard work has paid off. He made a nervous start but as soon as he settled into the grading, he was able to relax and performed brilliantly. Joshua is such a lovely young man and is encouraging and supportive of other class members. He has made every single Instructor who has been part of his journey proud of him. Well done Joshua and keep up the excellent work. Mum next!
Darren Williams - Nidan
Brilliant grading from Darren Sensei who absolutely loves his karate. Darren Sensei has trained diligently and been 100% committed since the day he started. He scored high marks in all three areas and put in an excellent performance. He was much more composed in the kumite this time around and landed some great combinations. You can tell he has been working hard in the squad class to prepare. You could really see the step up he’s made from Shodan to Nidan. He is a great leader in his dojo and his enthusiasm for karate is infectious. We are so pleased to have Darren Sensei and his boys Nathan and Sam training with us and thriving with their karate. Well done Darren Sensei and keep it up, we think you are brilliant.
Helen Cowley - Nidan
Wow, what a grading. Helen Cowley Sensei has been like a whirlwind since the day she began training just before lockdown with her super-talented daughter Lois. She trains several times a week, every single week and is an absolute karate addict. There has been no stone left unturned in terms of preparation for this grading. Helen Sensei has thoroughly studied every single Kata, perfected every move in the kihon and kicked herself out of her comfort zone to get ready for the kumite after suffering an injury last time out. She has improved immeasurably and has been an absolute pleasure to work with, a rare gem of a student who actually goes away, practises what you ask her to and comes back with it fixed. Then wants more!!! We are lucky to have such a hard working, caring and inspirational person as part of our Instructor team. You are amazing and you did it - well done!
Holly P - Nidan
Holly is a phenomenally talented student. She has been training from a very young age, starting out as a beginner with John O’Donovan Sensei when he first opened the Chantlers dojo many years ago. There are many reasons why she was able to give the performance she gave on Sunday. She trains several times a week, every week and never misses. She always gives you 100% every time she trains and has been quietly plugging away. She is a pleasure to teach and corrects everything you ask her to straight away. She is an intelligent fighter and is resilient and brave. She attends the hard classes and wants to challenge herself. This is why she is now one of the best and most promising young females we have at Red Tiger. Congratulations on your amazing performance, we are so excited by your potential. I hope you were inspired by Lola because you have what it takes to follow in her footsteps and make it all the way to Sandan. Well done.
Shodan - 1st Dan Black Belt
Andy Guest - Shodan
Excellent grading from Andy Guest who has continually impressed us at grading and events over the years. Andy scored consistently high marks from all three examiners and did really well in the kumite section especially when sparring with senior grades. He’s a great role model in the Stretford class and thouroughly deserves to be a Black Belt. Well done Andy and keep up the great work.
Harry Guest - Shodan
Congratulations to Harry who has been training hard for many years. Harry and his brilliant brother Max have always been fantastic students who work hard week in week out. Harry has exceptional kumite and has done the work to bring his Katas up to scratch. Harry has high ability and we hope that he continues his karate journey and works towards his Nidan. We hope he takes confidence from this massive achievement as he has what it takes to be unstoppable. We were so impressed well done.
Jannah Haque - Shodan
We are so happy that Jannah has made it to her Shodan after training with us for so many years. There have been times when I think she has doubted herself and did not fully believe in her ability. The only person who doesn’t think she is brilliant at karate is Jannah herself. We all know she is awesome and can 100% achieve anything she puts her mind to. She was fantastic at the grading and has achieved some great marks from all the examiners. Keep training Jannah, start believing in yourself and there will be no stopping you Missus. What a star.
Dexter Wolstencroft - Shodan
Great performance from young Mr Wolstencroft who has karate in the blood and was crawling round the dojo since he was born and Kerry Jackson used to watch him on the sidelines. Dexter has been properly training since he was just 4 years old and has really taken his time progressing through the grades at his own pace. He takes part in a lot of sports but has really concentrated on his karate for the last 12 months and has shown excellent improvement. He has grown in confidence, especially since training in Japan and worked hard to master the syllabus. All three examiners gave him great marks and we are so proud of him. This is just the start for Dexter, I am sure that with sustained effort he can make it to Nidan and beyond. Well done Wolsty and thanks to all the Sensei’s who have helped him over the years especially Mike and Leesa Sensei who he absolutely adores!
Christopher Paxton - Shodan
Chris Sensei has been an absolute karate addict since the day he started. He is in the dojo several times a work, working hard and perfecting his training. He has completed over 100 lessons in just six months since earning his 1st Kyu which was the most out of anyone going for Black Belt. His standard is excellent and he scored high marks in all three areas. Chris Sensei is a pleasure to teach and have in the classes and we are really lucky that he passes on his fantastic karate to the Accrington Class. We look forward to working with you towards your Nidan as we have no doubt you have the ability and work ethic to get there. Well done.
Lucas Paxton - Shodan
We are so pleased that Lucas finally found his confidence and managed to beat his nerves to earn his Black Belt. He is a brilliant student with really well rounded karate. He is consistent with his training and always tries his best. We have been trying to build his confidence and bring him out of his shell and we hope that by passing his Black Belt this will give him an even bigger boost. His grading performance was excellent and we know that there is so much more to come from Lucas. Keep up the great work.
Lauren Everett - Shodan
Lauren is an extraordinary student with bags of talent. We were so impressed with her performance at grading and how she just takes everything in her stride. She has taken her time to work through the grades and has always impressed us at events and gradings. She is a lovely young lady, so polite and well mannered. Her karate is top class and she thoroughly deserves to be a Black Belt. You have made Gary & Jo Sensei and all the Instructors who have worked with you extremely proud - well done.
James Baker - Shodan
Congratulations James on your brilliant performance at grading. James has been training with us for many years and really kicked his karate onto the next level over the last 18 months. He’s worked extremely hard and attended extra lessons to prepare himself for this grading and give himself the best chance and a positive outcome. James scored high marks in his kihon and kata sections and fought brilliantly in the kumite. We are really pleased for you James and know that you will be a fantastic Black Belt and I am sure you will make an outstanding Nidan in the future. Well done.
Bobby Massey - Shodan
What an absolute diamond Bobby is! He is a gentle giant and we always look forward to seeing him. He’s worked so hard at his karate over the years and I think he would agree when I say that it doesn’t come easy to him. He has overcome disappointments along the way and is one of the most determined students I have ever met. So mature, he just gets on with it and isn’t afraid of putting the extra work in. We are so pleased that he has earned his black belt at the first attempt and I am sure he has made his parents, his Sensei and everyone in the dojo so proud of him. What a star!
Michael Simcoe - Shodan
Michael will be pleased to hear he scored some of the highest marks given out on the day. His karate is excellent. Very clean, he keeps it simple and he is a pleasure to watch. Jon Sensei and his team have done a brilliant job to prepare everyone for grading and Michael certainly helped to set the standard on the day. He leads by example and has clearly put in the work to secure this success. We are so pleased for you Michael and we hope that you will continue to push towards further development because your karate is top drawer.
James Kelly - Shodan
James is an absolutely brilliant fighter and a natural karateka. He is so sharp and focused and has always impressed us at previous gradings and events. I was really looking forward to watching him and he did not let us down. James was awarded excellent marks by all three examiners and remains one of our most exciting young prospects for the future. It helps that he is an absolutely lovely lad too, always polite, kind and helpful to others. A true black belt and we couldn’t be happier for you. I hope that you continue to fulfill your potential because you have what it takes to make it to nidan and beyond.
Isaac Blacklock - Shodan
Congratulations to Isaac who was so focused on the day. He has finally learned to relax and now looks really sharp and more focused than ever. His concentration has improved and we were really impressed with the improvements he has made in the Kata section in particular. Isaac has had setbacks over the years but he was never going to let that happen today and we are so pleased that he managed to keep his discipline in the kumite and pass all three sections. Great work Isaac well done.
There were seven students who have been asked to come back and repeat sections. We do hope that you manage to do this and do not give up at this late stage of your karate journey. You will bounce back and it our job as Instructors to help you get where you need to be. Rest up, recover and come back fighting! You WILL do it. The minimum waiting period for retakes is 3 months training. So we can be aiming for the end of Feb/March time. Set that goal and finish what you started. I cannot wait to write some great things about the resilience you have shown.
Lastly, we will be putting an order for Black Belts to Hirota in on Monday 8th December. These Black Belts are handmade in Tokyo Japan and can be personalised with your name and favourite colour. You can choose any colour on the colour chart. If your favourite colour is not on the drop down menu just select any and then send your order number & colour choice (including the number - e.g. purple -1130) in via email to info@redtigerkarateclub.co.uk and I will confirm what you want before placing the order. They usually take 4-6 weeks to arrive so will not arrive in time for Christmas. This is a non returnable item as they are bespoke. If you would like to order one please follow this link:
HIROTA BLACK BELT: https://www.redtigerkarateclub.co.uk/shop/p/hirota-black-belt
Huge thanks to all of our Instructor team for the work they have put into getting the students ready for grading. As always our Club is nothing without the team that makes everything happen. Thanks to the grading examiners Gary Pratley Sensei, Mike Beckwith Sensei and Rob Head Sensei for your expertise and helping us do the grading and to Helen Sensei for collating all the results.
Thanks also to the parents and supporters who keep these students going week in week out. You are the ones who motivate and enable them to do this and without your support it would not be possible.
Thank you all!