Not the busiest day by any means, but an interesting morning session involving a lot of pair work and culminating in a special presentation by Shihan Whale.

Before taking part in the main grading, Shihan Whale addressed the class and explained that senior grades required commitment beyond just club training, and Sensei Gilbert from the Helston dojo had shown that commitment and more. Consequently Kevin Gilbert was promoted to 6th Dan, presented with a commemorative trophy and a red and white block belt. With his promotion goes the title of "Shihan".

Helston Instructors from Left to Right:
Adam Collick (4th Dan), Kevin Gilbert (6th Dan), Jason Thompson (2nd Dan) and Josh Hughes (1st Dan)

Shihan Gilbert chaired the grading panel assisted by Sempai Jason Thompson and Sempai Richard Collett. Sempai Josh Hughes sat in as an observer/trainee Examiner.

The main grading had it's highs, it's lows and a few moments of drama but all were successful.

Promoted to ...

7th Kyu Yellow Belt
Matthew Shaw
Sam Smith

6th Kyu Orange Belt
Terry Lander
Hamish Rule

2nd Kyu Brown Belt
Alice Helliwell
Peter Helliwell

Tags: 2009, grading results