Saturday in what was believed to be the sport's first united training session.

According to BMAS president Bobby Smith, the event, held at Bernard Park, marked the first time all of the Island's martial arts organisations had gathered to train together.

The session, said Smith, was organised to promote unity among the various martial arts and to raise funds for the Bermuda National Karate Team which will take part in the world championships in Malaysia in December.

During the day, a number of Bermuda's top instructors taught a 10-minute introduction in their style of martial art.

Among the styles covered were: Tai Chi Chuan by Sifu Rahman Kabir; Shotokan Karate by Senseis Paget Wharton, Roger Trimm and Nigel Williams; Ju-Jitsu by Sensei Arnold Allen; and Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate by Sensei Bobby Smith.

Said Smith: "Although the entire BMAS membership was not in attendance, the event was considered a major success.

"All of the participants thoroughly enjoyed the training and left with a deeper understanding of the various arts.

"The event had such a favourable response that plans are being made to make this an annual event.''