Local West Belfast coach Eric Forsythe achieved another milestone in the young associations future – attaining his 3rd Dan black belt under the auspices of Iain Abernethy 5th Dan on behalf of the British Combat Association who are Europe's foremost association on self protection and pragmatic martial arts at the weekend. This was the culmination of almost 3 years of continuous training to attempt this venture. 3 months of fitness and fight training shows the level of skill that was needed in order to attempt the grade.
With the technical, pad work, and fighting areas to be covered on the night the whole assessment lasted longer than 1.5 hours after which Iain gladly signed the 3rd Dan certificate to add another accolade to the young associations lifespan. Special thanks must be given to Gerrard Neeson, Gerrard Rooney, and Peter Hand who acted as the pad holders, fighters on the night. All had a tough and exhaustive night.
Mushin Karate association would like to thank Sally Gardens Community Centre and in particular Anne Downey and Pauline McCaughley for their generous help in using the Community Centre for training and to host the grading.
Anyone wishing to learn an effective and pragmatic means of self-defence can contact Eric Forsythe on 02890604769. Alternatively, they can call into any classes, which are held on Monday nights from 7 – 8 p.m in St Luke's Primary School, Twinbrook for adults and Wednesday nights from 7-8 p.m for juniors to speak to the coach and parents if you wish.