Tag: #blackbeltdinner

2025 Instructors Seminar and Gala Dinner ~ Gi’s, Glitz and Glamour ~

25 Jan
Lindie Jenkins 0 Comment Archived, Latest News , , , ,

An annual institution, the WSKF-SA Instructors Seminar and Black Belt Gala Dinner, took place during the weekend of 24 January 2025. Be My Guest Hotel and Conference Venue played host to the event, where karateka from across South Africa gathered to learn, train, and rub shoulders with like-minded martial artists. The venue was bursting at its seams in testimony to the substantial growth the organisation experiences.

Traditionally, Friday night is Kata Night: attendees were treated to the expertise and wealth of knowledge of Mike Dukas Shihan (8th Dan) as elements of Heian katas were highlighted. The Instructors Seminar aims, amongst various other things, to set the tone for the technical content of WSKF-SA dojos for the year ahead. As such, attention is given to the way in which techniques, rhythm and timing in kata should be taught across the organisation. This year, two advanced katas, Gojushiho Dai and Gankaku, took centre stage. Stephan Steyn Sensei (5th Dan, Steyn Dojo, Potchefstroom) shared his impressions of the kata Gojushiho Dai, while Mike Shihan expounded on the intricacies of Gankaku.

 

 

Saturday brought an even larger group of karateka together for a day filled with karate and camaraderie.

Following on from the 2024 directive of the Saiko Shihankai, all karateka who wish to attempt Dan grading, had to present themselves at the Instructors Seminar as a public declaration of their intention. Senior instructors were hereby alerted to these students’ intent to grade and would continue to track these students’ performance and progress and provide strategic feedback in the students’ preparation process. Although this bold move, to step in under the magnifying glass, left a number of students a little ashen-faced, they are commended for their bravery! It is said that “a goal without a date is just a dream” (Milton H. Erickson) – for these karateka the goal is now very real and only 8 short months away…

 

 

Training focused largely on Jiyu Ippon Kumite. The vast syllabus requires far more time than what a single day’s sessions can offer.

 

 

 

Yet, even just scratching the surface of this material was beneficial for all karateka who are new to the organisation and everyone else who needed mental refreshers of the complexities of this type of sparring.

Several break-away sessions offered karateka of similar grade levels an opportunity to practice aspects of their next grading syllabi under the watchful eyes of senior karateka who are au feit with the changes in the syllabi.

 

 

Responsibility for the logistical arrangements during the Instructors Seminar fell to John van der Sandt Sensei (3rd Dan) and his team of volunteers from Kuro-Obi dojo (Vanderbijlpark) – they did an excellent job!

When training concluded, the AGM was held to address relevant matters for the 2025 calendar year. And then came the time to exchange gi’s for the glitz and glamour of the Gala Dinner…

In the low glow of the early evening light, beautiful ladies in dazzling evening garb, and dapper gentlemen in formal attire arrived to celebrate another successful year for WSKF-SA.

Karateka who have achieved at least their first black belt (Sho Dan) and higher ranks are invited to attend the annual Gala Dinner with their partners. What was a functional karate dojo during the day, in a mere few hours was masterfully transformed into a Japanese-themed night-time wonderland. Full credit belongs to Mrs. Lynette Pretorius and her amazing team of volunteers from the WSKF Karate Vaal dojo (Vereeniging) for the magical metamorphosis.

Dinner guests enjoyed an evening of great food and wine, engaging company and joyful celebration as the organisation reflected on all that had transpired in the preceding year. New dojos were welcomed into the cadre of WSKF, with the hope that they would embrace the ethos of WSKF and truly become part of the family!

A much-anticipated highlight of the evening is always the Awards Ceremony where those who have successfully graded, receive their Japanese certificates. This year (2024) Dan grades were awarded in each of the levels Shodan (1st Dan), Nidan (2nd Dan), Sandan (3rd Dan), Yondan (4th Dan), Godan (5th Dan) and Rokudan (6th Dan) – yet another testimony to the growth in the organisation. [A full photo gallery can be viewed on the Karate in Focus Facebook page].

The coveted “Best Administration” trophy was awarded to Kuro-Obi dojo for their exemplary attention to detail, their prompt and thorough compliance with the Saiko Shihankai’ s requests and the general good business practices they employ in the running of their dojo. Rightfully, the credit was given to the administrative brilliance of Celeste van der Sandt, who is tasked with this responsibility in the dojo.

 

2025 promises to be an eventful year for WSKF-SA: the line-up of events includes a National Team Challenge (inter-dojo competition), a Dukas-family visit to Japan, and a South Africa Team tour to Japan for the WSKF World Championships in Tokyo.

As the weekend concluded and everyone returned home to step forward into 2025, the call rang out across all of WSKF-SA:

“Onwards and Upwards – Opportunity awaits!”

Photo credits:
WSKF-SA expresses sincere thanks to Mari Laufs of ProPixel8 and to Cobus Nienaber Sensei of Photo Excellence for their selfless and tireless photographic services at the Instructors Seminar and Black Belt Gala Dinner, respectively.

WSKF Black Belt Dinner – 2023

31 Jan
Otto Rogowski 0 Comment Archived

   

A Night of Celebration and Inspiration

The highly anticipated annual WSKF Black Belt Dinner took place in January 2023, marking another year of remarkable achievements and recognizing the dedication and hard work of martial artists within the World Shotokan Karate-Do Federation. This grand event, which has become a cherished tradition over the years, served as a platform to honour accomplished individuals and celebrate their accomplishments. From the delightful culinary experience to Sensei Mike’s inspiring speech, the evening left a lasting impression on all attendees.

     

The Black Belt Dinner, a highly esteemed occasion on the WSKF calendar, brought together karate enthusiasts, instructors, and their families from dojos far and wide. Held in a prestigious venue, the event provided an opportunity for attendees to connect, share stories, and foster a sense of camaraderie within the karate community. The event not only celebrated the achievements of the past year but also strengthened the bonds that make the WSKF a close-knit family.

     

One of the highlights of the Black Belt Dinner was the presentation of Dan grading certificates. The esteemed black belts who had successfully passed their examinations were recognized and celebrated for their exceptional dedication and skill. The certificates were handed out by Sensei Mike Dukas, the esteemed leader of the WSKF, who commended the recipients for their unwavering commitment to the art of Shotokan Karate.

   

A Culinary Delight: The friendly and professional staff of the Be My Guest Hotel, where the event was held, went above and beyond to create a memorable dining experience for all attendees. With exquisite attention to detail, the hotel’s culinary team crafted a delightful meal that satisfied both the palate and the senses. From appetizers that tantalized taste buds to the mouthwatering main courses and delectable desserts, every dish was prepared with finesse, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.

     

Sensei Mike, a revered figure within the WSKF, took the stage to express his gratitude to all participants for their invaluable contributions throughout the year. His speech was not only motivational but also a reminder of the values and principles that make the WSKF community so special. Sensei Mike’s words resonated deeply, inspiring attendees to continue their journey in Shotokan Karate with renewed determination and passion.

       

Another moment of celebration was the announcement of the winner of the prestigious roaming trophy for administration. The Knysna and Plet dojo, renowned for their exceptional organizational skills and commitment to efficiency, clinched the trophy, receiving well-deserved recognition for its exemplary administrative efforts. The award not only honoured the dojo but also highlighted the importance of effective administration in supporting the smooth operation of the WSKF.

 

     

The WSKF Black Belt Dinner held in January 2023 was a resounding success, bringing together the karate community to celebrate achievements, honour dedication, and inspire future growth. From the delectable meal prepared by the Be My Guest Hotel staff to Sensei Mike’s empowering speech, every aspect of the event left attendees feeling inspired and motivated. The recognition of Dan grading recipients and the Potch dojo’s triumph further highlighted the exceptional talent and commitment within the WSKF. As the annual event continues to thrive, it serves as a testament to the strong bonds and shared passion that makes the WSKF community truly remarkable.

WSKF Black Belt Dinner – 2022

22 Feb
Otto Rogowski 0 Comment Archived

On Saturday, 22 January 2022, after a grueling day of training, the annual WSKF Black Belt Dinner was attended by several WSKF Black Belts and their partners.

   

This traditional annual event comprised the mingling of Karateka and Instructors alike from different provinces across South Africa, good food catered for by Be My Guest Hotel on the Free State bank of the Vaal River, splendid décor provided by Lynette Pretorius, reflection on the year past by dojo heads, the handing over of Japan-issued grading certificates and final toasting of the evening with shots of Saki!

   

   

 

   

   

   

   

Mike Shihan surprised everyone by announcing that he had a special Dan Registration Book made for WSKF South Africa. The book was made by Helene van Aswegen, who lectures at Stellenbosch University in the Western Cape, who specialises in book binding using a Japanese method called “Seihon”. This extraordinary book was bound using a specific binding technique called “Fukuro Toji” also known as Japanese stab stitching. The paper used is also made from Japanese rice paper.

 

One of the new Black Belts, Bukile Mabaso, mentioned, ” Shihan in 50 years’ time I may be alive, you, unfortunately will not be alive, but the book will be alive”. True and wise words! Mike Shihan hopes that this Dan Registration Book will encourage all existing and new students to train hard and diligently so as to get their names printed in this historical book.

WSKF Black Belt Dinner – 2019

13 Oct
Morrie Swart 0 Comment Archived

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!