Three students from North Island Kenpo Karate received their 1st degree black belt after qualifying on June 26 in Port McNeill.
The students, Nick Gachter, Michael Whitworth and Mark Whitworth endured several hours of testing by Sensei Rob Brittain and Senpai Darrell Cochrane. Students had to perform more than 27 katas (sets of movements) and demonstrate a high level of proficiency of all techniques. American Kenpo – techniques such as arm locks, strikes, holds, and releases – was also demonstrated during the testing.
Prior to the formal testing each student was required to complete at least 30 hours of instruction to other students at the dojo and complete a physical test that included 100 push-ups and timed sit-ups.
All three students have been continuously active in the Port McNeill dojo for more than eight years, progressing through each of the nine belt levels to attain their black belt rank.
It has been a lot of hard work and very rewarding says each of the recipients.
Mark Whitworth said that he and other students really appreciate and enjoy the learning experience at North Island Kenpo Karate. He is very impressed with Sensai Brittain’s exemplary teaching ability.
“Sensai Brittain always ensures his students preserve the highest level of respect for each other at this dojo while maintaining a social, yet formal, learning environment,” said Whitworth.
“His style of discipline does not discriminate and everyone is treated equally which is a very important trait for all of us, and instills ideal qualities that enable students of all ages to succeed in this environment and learn valuable life skills,” he said.
“Sensai Brittain is a role model for all ages and encourages a healthy lifestyle while teaching self-defence skills that build self-confidence and often assist us to avoid situations that may have otherwise led to conflict.
“It’s great to see this opportunity in our community and its success can be seen in the participants who have and continue to train at this dojo.”
