Holistic Karate keeps going from strength to strength. A few weeks ago, thirteen members successfully passed coloured belt (kyu) gradings, ranging from beginners going for their first belt, up to three children and an adult gaining their brown belts.

Gradings are always a nerve-wracking experience and all the students put up a really good performance to pass.

Then, last Sunday, Dawn Ashman and Mark Hollyoake also passed their first Dan Black Belts in a particularly gruelling examination.

Instructor, Charlie Wildish, who himself was awarded his fifth Dan last year, said: “I’m really proud of all my students, they all worked very hard. From those taking their very first grading and not knowing quite what to expect, all the way up to those going for Black Belt.

“Dawn and Mark have worked particularly hard, putting in extra sessions to make sure that they were prepared, and their hard work has paid off.

“I’m sometimes asked, how long does it take for the average person to get a Black Belt. Well, the average person will never get their Black Belt, they give up too soon!

“Those that stick at their training and keep on and keep on until they do get it are special people, and it has been a privilege to work with Mark and Dawn.”

Dawn, 72, has COPD and dyspraxia, so it has been a particularly long and difficult journey for her, but she just refused to give up, earning her huge respect from all her club mates.

Mark, relatively a spring chicken at just 59, is also a Black Belt in Korean Martial Arts, so he brings an extra depth of experience with him.

Anyone interested in trying Karate can contact Charlie on: 07940 852496 or at: www.HolisticKarate.com.