SKAI hosts black belt grading
The Shotokan Karate Academy International (SKAI) held its grading in Swakopmund last weekend, honouring karateka who were successful in obtaining their black belts following a strenuous grading process.The karateka who were tested for black belts have a minimum of five years’ experience, with some having as much as nine years of training in karate under the belt. The syllabus which they had to comply with is stringent, resulting in all of them training and preparing for the grading since the beginning of 2021.
Before an attempt could be made to grade, all participating karateka had to pass a theoretical test on karate-related matters and undergo a gruelling pre-grading exercise, where their level of skill displayed on all technical aspects was finely scrutinized by four senior instructors.
Karateka were graded on aspects including proficiency in basic techniques, proficiency in forms, proficiency in combat, fitness, etiquette and procedure, neatness and attitude, eye position, concentration and self-control.
To be successful, karateka had to demonstrate that they have the required skills, values and character traits required for the Shodan rank (1st degree black belt). Throughout the grading, the candidates were also subjected to testing their mental toughness, perseverance, character and respect.
The grading panel, consisting of the three highest graded SKAI karateka, were impressed with the standard displayed by the karateka.
SKAI chief instructor sensei Willem Burger outlined the route to obtaining a black belt: “For every 10 000 people who join a karate school, half will drop out within 6 months. Of those remaining, about 1 000 will complete a year of training before quitting. Approximately 500 students will study for two years, but only 100 will be there in 3 years. Usually, only 1 or 2 will progress and be successful in obtaining their 2nd degree black belt. One will progress to teach others as he/she has been taught – this person, the one in 10 000, is a true black belt.”
The following karateka have been welcomed to the Shotokan Black Belt scroll of honour:
• Junior black belt (karateka younger than 16): Eloy Dentlinger
• Shodan (1st degree black belt): Ryk Harmse, Adryan Husselmann, Stanfo Kruger, Delroy Dentlinger, Christopher Armstrong, JC LaCock and Marlé Kotze
• Nidan: Ryan Kruger
• Sandan: Shane Husselmann, Yolande de Beer and El-Maree Kotze
