GEORGE NEWS - Ryukyu Kobudo George conducted its bi-annual kyu gradings at the Honbu dojo in George.

Five juniors, aged between 12 and 14 years, were subjected to their first grading in this ancient traditional martial art. They had to perform three different weapons katas in order to receive a green belt ranking.

Also in attendance were RC Coetzee, who received his brown belt (first kyu ranking) and Marina Graupe, who received her blue belt ranking.

During April this year Ryukyu Kobudo received full membership with Martial Arts South Africa (Masa) and is growing in membership throughout the Western Cape, Eastern Cape and Gauteng.

Five members from George will leave for Japan next month under the leadership of sensei Jannie le Grange to take part in the first World Karate and Kobudo Tournament in the city of Naha in Okinawa.

The junior grading group who received green belts in kobudo with their instructor, sensei Rocher le Grange (middle). From left: Pierre van Loggerenberg, Melanie Mittendorf, Lyle Fitzmaurice, Adriaan Zeelie and Tjaart Helberg.

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