Seven local karate instructors were last week awarded Dan grading certificates for Black Belt levels from the Shihan Kai, the most senior instructors of Master Tabata, the founder of the North American Karate Federation.

The ceremony held last Sunday formed part of the festivities to mark the 12th year anniversary of the Tabata-Ha Shotokan Karate-Do Bermuda at Peace Lutheran Church in Paget.

Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, presented the grading certificates, together with Paget Wharton.

Instructors upgraded were the sixth Dan quartet of Jerry Bailey, Arnold Allen, Oscar Lightbourne, and Charles Butterfield. Princeton Bailey and Roger Trimm achieved seventh Dan, while Wharton was honoured for reaching eighth Dan.

Furbert also presided over the Bushido Awards ceremony with plaques presented to students who have gone above and beyond the basic requirements of Tabata-Ha Shotokan Karate-Do Bermuda.

Ethan White got recognition for Tiger Cub, the junior prize went to Khwai Mendoza, and Marie-France Thompson picked up the senior award.

The Bushido Award is presented to the student who shows good spirit, regular attendance and has shown constant development over the last year,’’ Andrea McKey, one of the event organisers said.

“They also show dedication, respect and are seeking the perfection of their character not only in the dojo but also in their everyday life.”

Prior to the awards there was a martial arts demonstration, with the team led by Garon Wilkinson, the president and head coach of Bermuda Sanshou Association. The participating schools were Wing Lam Kung Fu School, Kai Yun Shaolin Academy, the Wushu Sun Da and Taolu programmes at Aeries Sports Centre.

“We saw the team do Traditional Kung Fu, modern Wushu Taolu and Sun Da,’’ McKey added. “Thank you to the demo team and we wish you well in the upcoming Wushu World Championships this week.”

Sunday’s event marked twelve years since Butterfield branched out and opened his own school. The twelve members and family of Tabata-Ha attended a church service where they were welcomed by Reverend David Trott, who included them in the prayers. Trott’s son, Amiel, is one of the junior students.

“Butterfield Sensei acknowledged various individuals for their commitment and support over the past 12 years,’’ McKey said.

“Roger Trimm Sensei for his wisdom and guidance which has been the cornerstone of our martial arts journey.

“Oscar Lightbourne Sensei for his tireless efforts for shaping the future generation of karateka. Andrea McKey Sensei for her passion in martial arts and her encouragement of our members.

“Tammy Burrows for meticulous financial management and her behind-the-scenes work is the foundation upon which our dojo’s financial stability stands.

“Each received the Tabata-Ha Dojo Excellence Award. He also presented Princeton Bailey Sensei, who has been a pillar of strength with his unwavering commitment to karate and his exceptional leadership.

“On December 3, we will be having our karate tournament where a lucky spectator and lucky competitor will win a push bike.

“The tournament will be held at Whitney Institute starting at 10am. Everyone is welcome to come out and see some amazing karate from our youth through to the adults.”