Karatekas make shodan grade
They graded in December and received their black belts on January 27.
On her way to obtaining her first black belt, Agata Szafranski broke four toes and bruised her shins, but, in the end, it was all worth it.
During her initiation at the New World Shotokan (NWS) Karate Rynfield dojo on January 27, Agata, toes wrapped with black tape, still went through the process despite the pain.
She said the injuries were part of the process, and the blood, sweat and tears were all worth it because she had now achieved her goal.
“I’ve always wanted to do karate. I started in 2016 in my 20s. It’s been a long, emotional journey. To realise the journey only begins after the first black belt is quite scary,” she said.
Agata, her sister Kelsey Szafranski, Zelmerie du Plessis and Jo-Anne Martins graded in December and received their shodan belts after the traditional initiation, which involved several rounds of kumite.
Du Plessis started karate in 2015 because of bullying. She decided to continue after the bullying stopped because of the discipline and training involved.
“I feel exhausted but proud at the same time. I did all of this for some special person who passed away right before I graded,” she said.
Martins comes from a karate family. Her husband, Tony and son, Chris, are members of the NWS, with Chris holding the rank of yondan for his four black belts.
“I’m humbled to get the opportunity to achieve this goal in my life. My husband and son have taught me so much. We respect each other’s abilities and knowledge. I would not have graded if it was not for them,” said Martins.
Kelsey, who started with Agata in 2016, emerged breathless from the sparring session but was grateful to break the barrier and achieve her goal.
She said the journey was exhausting and wore her down, but she pushed herself further than she thought she could go, which was a vital lesson.
“It’s like breaking through a barrier. This rank comes with a lot of responsibility. We are responsible for the lower ranks and setting a good example for the younger guys,” she said.
Chief instructor sensei John Barnett said he was happy for the students.
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