SPORT KARATE EAST Welcomes Three New 1st Dan Black Belts and a New 5th Dan!

We are absolutely thrilled to celebrate an incredible milestone for SPORT KARATE EAST and our wider SAKAI Association family!

On Saturday, 7th June 2025, at our Honbu (Headquarters) in Kilmarnock, Connor McCluskey, Campbell Stewart, and Oliver Widera were officially awarded their Shodan (1st Dan) Black Belts by Sensei David M Coulter MBE, 8th Dan, and Mr Kris Coulter, 6th Dan, our Assistant Chief Instructor.

These young martial artists are now SAKAI 1st Dan Black Belts, an extraordinary accomplishment that represents years of commitment, discipline, and relentless hard work. The Shodan grade is not the end, but the beginning of a lifelong journey. From here, their path deepens with new responsibilities, not just to continue training with dedication, but to lead by example both on and off the tatami. They are now role models, mentors, and a source of inspiration for the next generation.

What does it take to earn a 1st Dan Black Belt at SKE?

Connor, Campbell, and Oliver demonstrated outstanding perseverance through a demanding and rigorous examination that tested them physically, mentally, and emotionally. Their grading included:

• Mastery of a wide variety of basic techniques: blocks, strikes, kicks, and punches

• Execution of 44 unique combinations from memory

• Performance of 9 Katas

• A timed written examination

• Over 28 Kumite matches

The 1st Dan Black Belt signifies far more than technical skill. It reflects deep personal growth, mental strength, and the ability to apply karate’s core values; focus, humility, discipline, and respect, in every part of life.

“A Black Belt is not something you wear. It’s something you become.”

To wear a 1st Dan Black Belt is to take on the responsibility of training with integrity and intensity. Every session is an opportunity to re-earn the honour. For those who walk this path, the belt is never taken for granted.

A New 5th Dan at SPORT KARATE EAST

We are also delighted to announce a new Godan (5th Dan) within our ranks — Bob Davidson!

Bob delivered an exceptional performance, demonstrating deep technical skill, refined spirit, and powerful presence. His promotion to 5th Dan reflects not only advanced mastery of karate techniques but a lifelong commitment to mental and physical development. It is a testament to his continued pursuit of excellence and evolution as a martial artist.

Bob’s journey inspires everyone at SPORT KARATE EAST to keep striving. His example reminds us all: no matter where you are in your karate path, there is always another level to reach.

To our new 1st Dan Black Belts and to our new 5th Dan, we salute you. Your dedication, perseverance, and humility embody everything SPORT KARATE EAST stands for.

Keep training hard. Embrace the journey. Continue to shine.

Congratulations from your SAKAI & SKE Family.