On Saturday, June 29, 2024, 28 dedicated students from the Ballymena and Rasharkin CKA clubs successfully completed their Kyu belt examinations, showcasing their hard work, skill, and determination.

In attendance to facilitate the examination was CKA chief coach Sensei Dan Redmond (7th Dan) , along with club coaches Sean Wisener (2nd Dan) and Jamie Neill (1st Dan), and trainee coach Kathy Archer (1st Dan).

Here’s a breakdown of the grades achieved:

• 9th Kyu Yellow Belt: 8 members
• 8th Kyu Red Belt: 7 members
• 7th Kyu Orange Belt: 2 members
• 6th Kyu Green Belt: 8 members
• 5th Kyu Blue Belt: 2 members
• 4th Kyu Purple Belt: 1 member

The grading was a comprehensive test of various karate techniques. All participants demonstrated great proficiency in kumite (sparring) and kata (formal exercises), along with elements of self-defense in some sessions. The senior members, in particular, showed a solid understanding of their basic blocks, highlighting their commitment.

Sensei Redmond would like to congrtualte all the students for their remarkable efforts!

Session 1 - 18 Junior members and their coaches after being presented with their certificates. The belts earned were Yellow, Red, Orange, Green & Purple

Session 2 - 7 Senior members and 3 Junior members with their coaches after being presented with their certificates. The belts earned were Red, Orange, Green & Blue.