Black Belt Gradings Articles / Grading Date: Dec 01, 2008 - 08:01 AM Congratulations to Ken Uzzell (1st Dan - Shodan), and Peter Bamford (3rd Dan - Sandan), on their success at the Black Belt grading yesterday. With a 10:30 start in Sollihull, West Midlands it meant the day didn't have to start too early. I picked up the 2 students and we made our way to the dojo. The grading was conducted by Sensei Dave Sharkey (EKO Chairman), who speaks Japanese with a Midlands accent which always makes things interesting. With 2 other clubs taking part in the grading, there were 8 students attempting their Black Belt grade from Shodan to Sandan all of which were Shotokan karate-ka. I was pleased with our 2 students having demonstrated good strong stances and kime in their kata. It was a very proud moment when Sensei Sharkey presented Ken with his Shodan certificate and black belt, and Peter with his Sandan certificate. I was also grateful to accept my 4th Dan - Yondan certificate from Sensei Sharkey. Congratulations to you both, Sensei Jones This article comes from Fudoshin Karate Club http://www.fudoshinkarateclub.co.uk/new/ The URL for this story is: http://www.fudoshinkarateclub.co.uk/new/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=28