WSKF Black Belt Dinner – 2019

13 Oct

The prestigious annual WSKF Black Belt Dinner was held at the Vaal Golf Club on the evening of Saturday, 5’th October. Black belts and their partners from all member dojos are invited to attend and always look forward to this highlight on the WSKF calendar!

The hall was beautifully decorated with a Japanese theme and lovely flowers. The décor never disappoints at this event. Lynette Pretorius and her team always do a fabulous job! The evening started with a welcome address from Mike Dukas Sensei, followed by a formal address from Marius Jordaan Sensei. Dojo instructors were invited to present their latest dojo news and achievements for the past year. All students felt proud to be part of WSKF South Africa as they realized the success of each of the dojos.

Congratulations to Andrio Lombaard Sensei, and the members of Kuro Obi Dojo, who achieved the award for Best WSKF Branch for 2019! As is a tradition at this event, recently graded students were presented with their Dan Grading certificates from Japan. In addition, recognition was also given to the students that recently travelled to Japan to attend the WSKF World Karate Championships. After the formalities were finished, everyone was allowed to relax and enjoy a lovely evening with delicious food and drinks, surrounded by great friends!

 

 

WSKF National Dan Grading – 2019

13 Oct

The annual WSKF National Dan Grading was held on Saturday, 5'th October, at Vanderbijlpark Dojo. Candidates were represented from multiple dojos and attempted grades ranged from Shodan (1 st dan) to Yondan (4'th dan). This year’s grading panel consisted of the most senior WSKF members, ranging from Godan (5'th dan) to Nanadan (8'th dan). As such, the panel was extremely strict in evaluating all students. The large group executed their prescribed Kihon and kata, as well as partaking in multiple rounds of strenuous Kumite. Students attempting higher grades also presented their research articles to the panel.

Congratulations to the following students who successfully passed the examination:

A) Promoted to Shodan:

  • Ruan Enslin
  • Sibusisiwe Mnguni
  • Julian Botterill
  • Larissa Beukes
  • Stephanus Van Niekerk
  • Vic Du Preez
  • Christopher Jenkins

B) Promoted To Nidan:

  • Jaco De Wet
  • John van der Sandt
  • Duncan Rogowski
  • Morrie Swart
  • Christiaan Van Wyk
  • Renier Basson
  • Jacques Matthee
  • Inge Titus
  • Carien Hartzenberg

C) Promoted To Sandan:

  • Lindie Jenkins
  • Banie Niehaus
  • Deon van der Berg
  • Zone Knoetze
  • Les Liebenberg

D) Promoted To Yondan:

  • Elize Zywotkiewicz
  • Gary Van Jaarsveld