THE first students of the Karate Budokan International Karate Masters Training Program for people over 50 have officially completed their grading examinations to move up from a white belt to a yellow/white stripe belt.
The members of the group range in age from 60 to 80 and have attended class each week with extra one-on-one training when needed.
The students were presented their new belts and a certificate at a graduation ceremony and instructor Garry Maher said the atmosphere was nothing short of exhilarating.
“Of significance was the fact most of the students are from professional backgrounds including a medical practitioner, a police officer, geo-physicist, and back manager, radio broadcaster and public servant,” he said.
“Each student, to a person, shared their great sense of achievement for a job well done, with each looking forward to continuing their karate journey in the hope that one day, they will achieve their black belt.”
Garry said some of the group members have said they have never felt better in their lives.
“Indeed, their enthusiasm and motivation are infectious,” he said.
