A community milestone at Mountfitchet Romeera Leisure Centre as 77 Karate‑Ka earn new belts with 100% success

On Sunday 14 September, seventy‑seven Karate‑Ka (Karate Students) from across Bishop’s Stortford and Stansted Mountfitchet stepped onto the floor at Mountfitchet Romeera Leisure Centre for Shotokan Karate Ryu’s Autumn Kyu grading. From first-timers to seasoned brown belts, every candidate brought sharp basics, focused kata and spirited kumite – and every single one passed. A clean sweep!

The grading was led by Chief Instructor Sensei Michael Ring (7th Dan) and Sensei Donna Ring (5th Dan), continuing SKR’s long tradition of exacting but encouraging examinations. The day opened with our youngest group, Tiger Tots, whose concentration and etiquette set the tone. Next came our juniors, who impressed everyone with sharp kicks and punches, along with some really confident Kata performances. The day wrapped up with our senior Kyu grades showing remarkable composure during their sparring matches.

Sensei Michael said, “Today showed what consistent practice can achieve. The standard was high across the board, and the positive mindset even higher.” Sensei Donna added, “Seeing students support one another whilst waiting to grade is as important as the techniques themselves. That spirit is what makes SKR.”

Beyond the belts, the aim remains unchanged: to cultivate discipline, resilience and respect through traditional Shotokan Karate. The dedication shown in regular training sessions remains equally significant as the formal recognition of advancement.