Edward, an 11 year old pupil at Carleton Park Junior & Infant School, has been awarded with his Black Belt after only 3 years of participating in Karate. Black symbolizes the darkness beyond the sun, and a person who has been awarded a black belt seeks to gain a deeper and further understanding of the physical and mental teachings of karate. Many people who are awarded a black belt begin passing on their knowledge to help others advance in their own belt rank.
On average it takes 5 years to gain your black belt so this is a real achievement for someone so young. Edward attends the Sengoku Martial Arts Club in Featherstone and loves martial arts as it’s great for his physical fitness and improves his mental well-being.
Edward said: “I feel really proud to have achieved my balck belt as it was a tough grading. Having to take on Dan-grade opponents in Kumite and complete 10 kata and 14 combinations was challenging. It has shown me I can achieve anything I set my mind to! Karate has taught me resilience and not to give up when things are tough. It’s also taught me confidence in helping and leading others.”
Despite his passion and expertise in Karate, Edward hopes to be either a footballer, teacher, or musician when he’s older. A young man with many talents. He is now starting the Junior Leadership Award Programme and will work for his 2nd Dan.