Local karate club’s tough grading

Blood, sweat and tears were the order of the day at Tebbutts Mixed Martial Arts Academy, on Saturday, when the club held an internal grading session for members with white and purple belts.

Family, friends and other club members gathered at the Lambton premises to support and cheer those being graded.

“Our gradings are very tense and the athletes have to work hard for the next higher belt,” said the club’s Master Alex Tebbutt.

“The hard work they put in enables them to feel proud when receiving and wearing their new belt, as they know they have earned it.

“I am impressed at the way the athletes take on each challenge, very determined and ready to prove themselves; it is encouraging.”

Among other challenges, the members were required to show their skills in tile-breaking, self-defence and weapons kata, which were great crowd pleasers.

“It is motivating when you see students apply everything they were taught in practise sessions,” explained Tebbutt.

“We don’t believe in awarding a member a higher ranked belt when they need more practise and refining of skills.

“It is for that reason our members are able to conquer at tournaments, because they compete in levels for which they are well-equipped.

“Our members did well and their endurance level is great.

”Thank you to the supporters for cheering and supporting, it helped athletes keep the momentum going and to made the event the great success it was.”

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