Similkameen Shotokan Karate Club member Patty Shortt successfully upgraded to the rank of Shodan - first degree black belt.
Grading consists of demonstrating kihon (basics), kata (forms) and kumite (sparring), said chief instructor Paul Bedard.
“At the black belt level the sparring is free, meaning either side attacks at any time using both hand and foot techniques. Patty sparred with a third degree black belt (sandan) and she was excellent in her skill and control,” he said.
“In so saying we now have a new black belt in our dojo - Sempai (senior) Patty Shortt, Shodan.”