Congratulations to Sensei Lee Smith (4th Dan) who instructed on the Ishinryu Summer course for the first time this year.
The summer course was held at St Osyth (Near Clacton, Essex) from Saturday June 24 through to Friday June 30. A regular event in the Ishinryu Calendar, this was the 31st year of presentation. Lee joined the other top Ishinryu Instructors as well as Ishinryu founder Ticky Donovan (OBE) for this intensive week of training and events. In addition to Lee there were18 attendees from the Woodlane club this year.
Grading Success Six Woodlane students took the opportunity to grade on the Summer Course (with a 100% pass mark). The most notable success was Ray Cutting who achieved Shodan (Black Belt) grade at 60 years young. Nine years of solid training enabled Ray to demonstrate that the Shodan grade is available to anyone who can demonstrate the necessary technique, stamina, and determination to achieve this coveted grade.
Other grading successes Congratulations to the following students who successfully graded on June 30th.
| Altan Suleyman | 3rd Kyu Blue Belt |
| Paul Fanner | 3rd Kyu Blue Belt |
| Tayla Holland | 4th Kyu Green Belt |
| Steven | 6th Kyu Orange Belt |
| Brittany | 7th Kyu Yellow Belt |
Competition success As usual, Woodlane students achieved notable success in the competitive events.
| Vasfi Eroglu | 1st Place - Male Kumite |
| Kimberley Vant | 2nd Place - Female Kumite |
| Steven | 1st Place - Junior Kumite |
| Alfie | 3rd Place - Junior Kumite |
| Altan Suleyman | 3rd Place - Kata |
In addition to the above, Sensei Tony Spinks was awarded Ishinryu Association Referee status after passing a written and practical examination - well done Tony!
