On 10th November 2021 eight students gathered at the SKR Hombu in Stansted Mountfitchet with five students attempting Dan gradings. The examination was Chaired by Sensei Michael Ring (6th Dan) with Sensei Donna Ring (5th Dan) and Sensei Stuart Trow (4th Dan) in support brining 70 years combined experience to the panel.

In the group of candidates was Sempai Ben Chan from the London club, who has commuted to Bishops Stortford to train twice a week in preparation for his 3rd Dan assessment. Senpai Simon Jones, Paul Thomas and Alex Richardson also attended to provide support to the panel in partnering Ben during the assessment.

Over the course of the next hour and a half all of the Dan candidates were put through a vigorous examination of the knowledge and skill in Kihon (basic techniques), Kata (fomal Exercises) and Kumite (Sparring). Senpai Ben was also asked to demonstrate Bunkai (applications) from his grading Kata as well as undergoing an oral examination of his understanding of Karate techniques and knowledge of the anatomy.

Following the examination the panel considered the performance of each candidate and awarded:

Kai Scheffer 1st Dan

Jacob Turvey 1st Dan

Poppy Lee 1st Dan

Massimiliano Verga 1st Dan

Ben Chan 3rd Dan

Sensei Michael commented: “The performance of the group was one of the strongest we have seen in recent years. The juniors were put under immense pressure but showed remarkable resilience and the hours of tireless practice shone through. Ben also did well and easily demonstrated he was above the standard required for 3rd Dan.”