Two new black belts in town
Published Date:
24 July 2008
By Derek Bish
TWO karate experts have become Haverhill Karate Club's first members to reach first dan (shodan) black belt in 16 years, and just the second and third in the club's 25-year history.
Mark Ashwood, 25, of Stockley Close, Haverhill, and Les Atkins, 46, of Wortham Place, Haverhill, won their belts after an intense exam in front of the head of the Toyakwai Karate Association, seventh dan black belt holder.
Mark and Les have taken years to get to the standard but were delighted to achieve it last week in London.
Club sensei Steve Hart said: “I was very proud of my lads.
“I actually was the last one to get one in the club and I got mine 16 years ago so it’s a big milestone for us.
“We are just a little club and they have been working so hard.
“You are looking at a minimum of five years hard work.”
Mark has been training for 15 years but took time out when at university while Les has taken eight years to get to first dan black belt level.
The full article contains 187 words and appears in Haverhill Echo newspaper.
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Last Updated:
22 July 2008 5:22 PM
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Source:
Haverhill Echo
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Location:
Haverhill
