The Alexandra Shotokan Karate Club celebrated a major milestone with 38 students successfully grading to their next karate ranks at the Clyde Primary School Hall.
The grading day on Saturday 9 May 2026 showcased the continued growth and strength of karate in the Alexandra community, with students of all ages demonstrating their skills, discipline and determination.
Students achieved the following grades:
- 12 students graded to Yellow Belt
- 9 students graded to Orange Belt
- 5 students graded to Green Belt
- 5 students graded to Blue Belt
- 2 students graded to Purple Belt
- 2 students graded to Brown Belt
Special recognition was given to Curtis Melton, Kodi Knights and Eli Knights, who performed exceptionally to achieve the honour of grading to their next black belt ranks.
Curtis Melton and Kodi Knights successfully graded to Nidan (2nd Dan Black Belt), while Eli Knights achieved Shodan (1st Dan Black Belt). Their achievements further strengthen the club’s growing group of senior black belts who help mentor, support and teach the younger and newer students within the dojo.
The grading panel consisted of Sensei Ray Irving (8th Dan), Sensei Bruce Potter (4th Dan) and Sensei Petri Conradie (4th Dan).
Sensei Ray Irving commented that he was very pleased with the standard demonstrated by the students and was encouraged to see so many new students beginning their karate journey.
A particularly special aspect of the grading was the involvement of eight parents who also achieved new grades alongside their children, highlighting the strong family and community spirit within the club.
Following the grading examinations, students and families gathered for a Grading Awards event where certificates and new belts were formally presented.
The Alexandra Shotokan Karate Club has been part of the Alexandra community for more than ten years and has experienced very strong growth recently, with increasing interest from both children and adults looking to begin or continue their martial arts journey.
The club welcomes new students of all ages and abilities, with instructors saying now is a great time for anyone interested to begin their karate journey.
- Petri Conradie
