The Spirit of Kyokushin Kenbukai: Celebrating Six New Brown Belts

Yesterday marked a significant day for our karate family as six dedicated students from the Moncton and Memramcook dojos faced the challenge of their brown belt grading. This event was not just a test of skill but a celebration of perseverance, teamwork, and the spirit that binds us all in the Kyokushin Kenbukai journey. The day was filled with intense training, emotional moments, and inspiring displays of determination.

Brown Belt candidates

The grading began at 10 am with only the candidates and a few black belts present to assist Shihan Ray. Each candidate was put through a rigorous kata review, repeating every motion multiple times. Shihan Ray’s attention to detail was clear as he grilled the students to ensure their knowledge was precise and their movements sharp.

This part of the grading tested more than just memory; it demanded discipline and focus. Candidates had to demonstrate not only the correct form but also the spirit behind each movement. The black belts assisting provided valuable feedback, helping candidates refine their techniques on the spot.

At 11 am, the dojo doors opened to welcome supporters, karatekas of all ranks, including some white belts, who came to cheer on the candidates. The energy in the gym was a blend of nerves and excitement as the second phase of grading began: a tough physical workout designed to test endurance and fitness.

This segment included a fitness test, kihons (basic techniques) and ido geiko (moving practice), lasting about two hours. The candidates pushed their limits, showing stamina and strength that reflected months of hard training. The workout was demanding, but the presence of the other students and their supporters created an encouraging atmosphere that helped the candidates keep going.

Following the fitness test, candidates moved on to self-defence techniques and tamashiwari (breaking techniques). These exercises demonstrated their ability to apply karate principles in real-world scenarios and their power to break through physical barriers.

The tamashiwari was particularly impressive, showcasing the strength and focus each candidate had developed. It was a moment that combined skill with confidence, leaving everyone in awe of the progress these karatekas had made.

The final part of the grading was the kumite (sparring) matches. The three youngest candidates; Zoe, Jasmine, and Jace, stepped into the ring first. Their fights were intense, filled with energy and determination. Each match was a test of strategy, speed, and resilience.

Next came Melanie, Claire, and Marcel, who faced their own challenging bouts. Throughout the kumite, Shihan Ray provided notes and challenges to push the candidates further. The intensity of the fights never waned, and the crowd could feel the passion and effort in every exchange.

Tears were shed during these matches, some from exhaustion, others from pride and joy. It was a powerful reminder of the emotional journey that accompanies physical achievement.

The newly minted brown belts

One of the most remarkable aspects of the day was the support from the karate family. Ten black belts were present to assist Shihan Ray, ensuring the grading ran smoothly and candidates received expert guidance. The gym was packed with karatekas of all ranks, showing that our kenbukai family is as strong as ever.

Even some of the youngest members of the dojo came to watch and cheer. This collective support made the grading feel like a shared experience, reinforcing the idea that the Kyokushin Kenbukai path is not walked alone.

The brown belt grading was a tough challenge, but the candidates rose to meet it with courage and determination. Their success sets a new standard for others to follow. They have become examples within the dojo, inspiring fellow karatekas to push themselves harder and embrace the journey ahead.

This event highlighted that karate is more than just physical training; it is about building character, resilience, and community. The support from Shihan Ray, the black belts, and the entire karate family made this day unforgettable.

The Kyokushin Kenbukai journey is demanding, but it is also rewarding. With the support of their karate family, these candidates showed that challenges become easier when shared. Their achievement is a reminder that every step forward is a collective victory.

Everyone who was there for the grading