Shotokan Karate Club goes from strength to strength

Following the success of the club in Narberth, the Karate Union of Wales association opened a new karate club in Haverfordwest last year.

Many of the new starters have recently passed their first gradings, and having impressed, they are now wearing their new coloured belts with pride. Two of the experienced karateka, Allan Hughes and Rory McQueen, were graded to fourth and fifth Dan.

Throughout the year, squad coach Kayleigh Pearce (third Dan) and a small group of competitors from the West Wales clubs joined together with the North and South Wales students to attend the six Welsh Karate League tournaments.

Two children in particular were very successful thanks to their hard work and commitment. First time competitor Clara Buckle achieved two bronze medals for kata in her age group, while David Ivanov, from Ukraine, was awarded two silver medals and a gold medal in his category and was awarded a second-place trophy for kata overall. He also earned a bronze medal in kumite.

A senior member, Michelle Thompson, gained a bronze medal in kata.

David Ivanov was awarded a second-place trophy for kata overall. (Image: West Wales Shotokan Karate Clubs)

To end the year on a high, the most recent grading saw many students achieving new grades, with several students attempting their black belt grading.

As a result, the club has now graded Katie Hawkins to second Dan and Michelle Thompson, Phil Nutting, Adrian Wilson and Lee Wells to first Dan.

The Narberth club trains in Templeton Village Hall on Tuesday evenings between 5pm and 7pm, and on Thursday evenings from 5.30pm to 7.30pm.

The Haverfordwest classes run every Wednesday evening from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at the new high school. Please contact senior instructor Sensei Rory Pearce (seventh Dan) on 07794728452 for any information regarding the clubs.