Sunday 7 December saw the Shotokan Karate Ryu (SKR) host the 4th quarterly grading with one hundred and ten students from Bishop’s Stortford and Stansted Mountfitchet tested across all Kyu grades at Mountfitchet Romeera Leisure Centre. The atmosphere was electric as candidates – ranging from white belts taking their first formal assessment to experienced brown belts – delivered precise techniques, strong kata and dynamic kumite. An outstanding 96% passed their examinations.

Chief Instructor Sensei Michael Ring (7th Dan) and Sensei Donna Ring (6th Dan) presided over the examination, maintaining SKR’s reputation for rigorous yet supportive assessments. The session began with Tiger Tots, whose showed an impressive focus and discipline establishing a benchmark for the day. Junior grades followed with explosive energy, delivering powerful techniques and kata that drew applause from watching parents. Senior students concluded proceedings with controlled, technical sparring that showcased their advancing skill.

“The level of performance today was outstanding,” remarked Sensei Michael. “Each student demonstrated the commitment and focus that comes from consistent training.” Sensei Donna observed, “The camaraderie among students waiting their turn is just as meaningful as the grading itself. That mutual encouragement embodies what SKR stands for.”

While the new belts mark visible progress, SKR’s core mission endures: fostering discipline, resilience and respect through the teaching of authentic and traditional Shotokan Karate. The commitment demonstrated week after week in the dojo holds equal value to the achievements celebrated on grading day.