KNYSNA | PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Members of the International Japan Karate Association (IJKA) dojos in Knysna and Plettenberg Bay recently concluded their activities for the 2021 year with a special event focusing on the year-end grading of the karateka.
The event, the dojos' annual Year-End Grading and Family Day, was held on Saturday 27 November at Harkerville Forest Lodge and featured a jam-packed programme.
It featured mass training for the karateka, a self-defence workshop, an anti-bullying talk and karate demonstrations, which were followed by the penultimate item - the grading.
The final item of the day was a special awards/prize-giving for all who took part.
Sensei at both dojos, John Peach, reflected on the successful day. "The self-defence workshop presented by sensei Natasha McKelvin was greatly enjoyed by all the participants.
"They learnt the theory of a basic self-defence (threatened) situation and carried out strengthening/body awareness exercises," Peach said.
"They also took part in actual role play scenario practice such as one-on-one with partners - to test their newly learnt skills."
According to Peach the very interesting and informative anti-bullying presentation with a Q&A session was well attended. It was presented by Paul Cambell, an experienced, knowledgeable and respected educator from Knysna Primary School.
"The karate demonstrations took the form of various students (ranging from five to 74 years of age), doing katas (ranging from basic to advanced) plus board-breaking techniques," Peach said.
"Three katas (traditional and weapons) were also performed by multiple world champion Galliano Boni - all to the great delight, surprise and enjoyment of the numerous supporters of the karate club plus students and parents."
Peach said the grading was very tough and strict, yet enjoyable. "The grading is key as all the students were tested to prove their newly learnt skills and improvement of techniques and ability though hard consistent regular training," he said. "They advanced accordingly as per the required standards demand for their individual belt level."
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