From 1st to 6th Dan //
A Remarkable Day of Black Belt Achievement //
On Sunday 19th October 2025, Karate-ka from the Shotokan Karate Ryu gathered for a Dan Grade (Black Belt) examination at Stansted Hombu under the watchful eye of Chief Instructor Sensei Michael Ring (7th Dan).
Dan Gradings are designed to test students of Karate (Karate-ka)’s ability in basic techniques (Kihon), formal exercises (Kata), and sparring (Kumite) to determine whether they have reached the required standard to be awarded the coveted Kuro Obi (Black Belt).
The grading commenced with Kihon where Dan grade candidates crossed the dojo (training hall), demonstrating combinations called out in Japanese by the Chief Examiner. After five repetitions, the candidates turned and repeated the exercise with a new combination called out in Japanese. The Kihon section continued without rest for fifteen minutes before the panel, consisting of four senior Black Belts with over a century of combined experience in Karate-do between them, were satisfied.
The second section involved Kumite drills where candidates were partnered up to attack and defend against different attacks called out by the Chief Examiner. Attacks included face punches, body punches, front kicks, side kicks, roundhouse kicks, turning kicks, and leg sweeps. Candidates then changed partners and repeated the exercise until the panel were satisfied they had seen enough.
The third section involved candidates demonstrating their chosen Dan grade Kata before the panel, before being called up as a group to demonstrate additional Kata of the Examiner’s choice. All Kata were performed with full speed and power, with candidates tested from progressively extensive lists appropriate to their rank.
The final section involved Shiai Kumite (Free Sparring) where each candidate had to spar multiple opponents. Senior candidates were also tested with advanced kumite applications demonstrating their deep understanding of practical karate techniques.
“This grading represents one of the most significant achievements in our dojo’s history. To see young students like Amelia, Evelyn, and Luca earn their first black belts alongside senior instructors reaching the highest ranks demonstrates the strength and depth of our karate family.
What makes this year particularly special is that we have now achieved 16 black belt passes in 2025, making this our most successful year yet.
All of the candidates performed exceptionally in what was an extremely demanding Dan grading. This is a testament to the dedication of our students and the quality of instruction throughout our club.”
The grading ended with the examiners considering the performance of each candidate and deciding whether they had demonstrated the requisite ability to be awarded their Dan grade. The panel concluded that Amelia Shea (10), Evelyn Shea (11), and Luca Kovacs (13) demonstrated the requirements of 1st Dan and were awarded Kuro Obi (Black Belt). Alex Richardson, Paul Thomas, and Stuart Hunter were awarded 3rd Dan in recognition of their advanced technical proficiency and ability.
In addition, Sensei Michael announced that the Senior Examiners of the English Shotokan Karate Organisation (EKO) and European Karate Organisation Governing Body (EKOGB) had confirmed the awards of 5th Dan to Sensei Stuart Trow and 6th Dan to Sensei Donna Ring recognising their outstanding contribution to the art of Karate-do.
Sensei Michael commented: “This grading represents one of the most significant achievements in our dojo’s history. To see young students like Amelia, Evelyn, and Luca earn their first black belts alongside senior instructors reaching the highest ranks demonstrates the strength and depth of our karate family. What makes this year particularly special is that we have now achieved 16 black belt passes in 2025, making this our most successful year yet. All of the candidates performed exceptionally in what was an extremely demanding Dan grading. This is a testament to the dedication of our students and the quality of instruction throughout our club.”
Back Row: Sensei Donna Ring (6th Dan), Paul Thomas (3rd Dan), Stuart Hunter (3rd Dan), Alex Richardson (3rd Dan), Sensei Stuart Trow (5th Dan)
Front Row: Evelyn Shea (1st Dan), Luca Kovacs (1st Dan), Amelia Shea (1st Dan)
A Record Year for Black Belt Achievement
This October grading brings our total for 2025 to an impressive 16 black belt passes, including the junior black belts who successfully graded earlier this year. This represents one of the most successful years in our dojo’s history and reflects the quality of instruction and commitment of our students.
April 2025 Dan Grading
October 2025 Dan Grading