A happy new year to you all! As we start 2026, it’s time to reflect on the previous year’s achievements, progress, and dedication from our club members.

Black Belt Excellence

2025 saw two club members achieve Dan grades. In July, Richard Thompson earned his Shodan at the University of Bath Sports Training Village under Sensei Frank Brennan (8th Dan) and Sensei Garry Harford (8th Dan). Richard’s commitment to training, combined with his competitive spirit, has created a disciplined approach that serves as a model for all club members. Then in November, Roy Sanders successfully achieved his 2nd Dan grading in Chelmsford, demonstrating the resilience and mental strength that defines a true martial artist. Both gradings were testament to the high standards our club develops in its students.

Kyu Grade Success

The club held three kyu gradings throughout the last year under Sensei Rob Welsh (7th Dan), with every single student achieving their next grade. Particularly noteworthy was our December grading, which saw five beginners pass their 9th Kyu – the largest group of beginners we’ve had this century! Sensei Welsh again complimented the club on the consistently high standard of those grading, a reflection of the quality training our instructors provide and the dedication of our students. Looking ahead to 2026, we have many 1st Kyus who will be ready to grade for 1st Dan.

Competition Achievements

Last year saw increased participation in competitions, with club members entering 25 categories across 4 championships. Our competitors brought home 3 Gold medals, 3 Silver, 3 Bronze, and five 4th place finishes – an impressive haul that demonstrates both individual excellence and the strength of our club’s competitive programme.

The KUGB Southern Region Championships in March 2025 set the tone for the year. Kieran secured Silver in Veterans’ kata after performing Sochin, while Emma claimed Silver in her category. Emma’s performance was particularly notable as she collected her fourth medal in her fourth competition – an exceptional record for any competitor.

At the KUGB National Kyu Grade Championships in April, our junior members truly shone. Emma delivered a standout performance, claiming Gold in the Girls Novice – 4th Kyu Kata category with a technically precise and spirited performance. Amy demonstrated remarkable determination, securing Bronze in the 13-14 Girls Kumite division, showing true fighting spirit despite taking several blows to the face during her matches. Harry added to his growing medal collection with a well-earned joint Bronze in the Boys Kumite division. What made these achievements even more impressive was that this was their first experience in Jiyu kumite, and they faced opponents who were mostly older, physically larger, and higher-ranked brown belts.

As our Chief Instructor Ron Hicks noted at the time, “They are a real credit to the club. We are so proud of them.”

Guest Instructor – Holly Bruce

In July, we welcomed back Sensei Holly Bruce (5th Dan) from Sendai Kushiro Karate Club for what is becoming an annual highlight. As an internationally acclaimed competitor and KUGB ambassador, Sensei Bruce delivered an exceptional session that benefitted everyone from novices to 6th Dan. Her systematic approach to kumite, focusing on kizami zuki and gyaku zuki with emphasis on distance control and defensive strategy, provided invaluable insights. Her teaching approach – progressing from foundational principles through partner drills to full-speed application – ensured every participant left with concrete technical improvements.

Central Region Kata Squad

The club continues to maintain a strong presence on the KUGB Central Region Kata Squad, led by Sensei Frank Brennan (8th Dan). Ron, Kieran, Mark, Craig, and Julian have committed to the training sessions throughout the year. The squad demands a level of fitness, focus, and discipline that goes beyond regular club practice, and our members have risen to that challenge. The first squad session of 2026, incorporating squad selection, will take place on January 25th in Grantham.

Looking Forward

As we move into 2026, the club instructors look forward to continuing improvements in the coming year. Our philosophy remains focused on steady development, consistent effort, and mutual support for all club members. With a strong cohort of 1st Kyus preparing for Shodan, a growing competition squad, and an enthusiastic group of beginners, the foundations are in place for another successful year.

Thank you to all our members for your dedication, to Sensei Rob Welsh for conducting our gradings, to our guest instructors, and to everyone who has supported the club throughout 2025.

We will start training again on Monday 5th January 2026 – see you all then.