THE UK Wado Academy National Karate Championships took place in Stroud, Gloucestershire, recently.
Entries were up on previous years, with almost 250 competing. Two students represented Shikukai Devon karate club, Sally Baldwin and John Kent.
Both Sally and John had been entered for the 4th Kyu (grade) and below Kata (set fighting movements done solo) event, with John also entered in the Kumite (fighting) event.
The Kata was a mixed event and meant Sally and John, both from Okehampton, would be competing against each other as well as the other competitors. In competition Sally holds a slight edge over John, having gained a first and third place in the last two kata competitions they have entered, with John a single second place.
Each competitor has to complete a different kata in each round of the competition. The first round with more than 30 competitors is whittled down and the top 16 people go through to the second round. This is then taken down to the last eight.
It was at this point that a very under-form Sally lost out. But in the final John upheld the honour of the club and, against experienced competitors, gained a good third place.
John continued his good form in the kumite event, losing in the quarter finals to the eventual winner in his category.
Shikukai Devon karate club instructor Steve Chamberlain 5th Dan teaches twice a week, Wednesday at Whiddon Down Village Hall 6pm to 9pm and Friday at the Ockment Centre 6.30pm to 9.30pm.