On Sunday 7th June we had our first grading of the year, this time located at the community hall in Winterbourne Bassett. For many it was the first time they have experienced something like this, and some nerves were definitely on display.
This didn’t stop all of the students from giving it their all, and the result was success for everyone. We are very proud of this achievement, and that for so many this is the start of their karate journey.
On the morning of Saturday, November 15th 2025, Hakuba students showcased the results of their hard work, focus, and consistent training during their grading test. Despite the nerves, everyone stepped up and delivered an impressive display of skill and determination.
Thank you to our Senior students for coming out to support their fellow karateka; to Jim Sensei, for his ongoing commitment to the club and making the journey up from Cornwall to lead the judging panel; and to instructors Andrea Sensei and Bob Sensei for their continuous support and dedication to our students.
A special mention to our junior students, who showed courage by taking part in sparring—despite it not being a requirement for their grading. Your willingness to challenge yourselves is inspiring, and the technical ability shone through.
The following students are now on the next stage of their Karate Journey. Well done!
Shiva Tanwar 9th Kyu, Hirad Taheri 8th Kyu, Chatwin Hau 8th Kyu, Henry Bond 8th Kyu, Jojo Hu 8th Kyu, Dana Birka 7th Kyu, Luisa Munoz 5th Kyu, Poppy Wildish 5th Kyu.
Several Hakuba members attended the 2025 training course hosted at the Suzuki Ha Wado Ryu Dojo (https://www.suzukiha.com/greece/index.php) in Argostoli, Kefalonia, Greece. It was a great opportunity to learn from the club’s chief instructor, Eleni Labiri-Suzuki Sensei 7th Dan over 3, 4-hour training sessions, covering many Kata applications and pairs work. In addition to the in-depth training, it was a great social event with plenty of time to get to know instructors and attendees from other clubs at the designated accommodation, Metaxatos Apartments and bar, and explore the local beaches.
Hakuba was well represented this year. Those in attendance:
Andrea Bond Sensei 3rd Dan, Mike Trevor 1st Dan, Phil Humphries 1st Dan, Glen Suttie 3rd Kyu, Steve Rees 3rd Kyu.
Many thanks to Jim Rendell Sensei (4th Dan) for running and hosting a training course at the St. Ewe dojo on Saturday 6th September. Many students from the Wiltshire area took the opportunity to travel down and enjoy a (mainly) sunny weekend near the Sea as well as an excellent 4 hours of training including:
Attendees:
James Rendell Sensei (4th Dan) – Instructor, Rob Wall Sensei (4th Dan), Andrea Bond Sensei (3rd Dan), Andy Phillips (2nd Dan), James Binding (2nd Dan), Paul Arrondelle (1st Dan), Phil Humphries (1st Dan), Glen Suttie (3rd Kyu), Poppy Wildish (6th Kyu), Maria (Dana) Birka (8th Kyu)
Left to right: Monnie Shaw 8th Kyu, Rob Shaw 8th Kyu, Lucas Burton 8th Kyu, Robin Burton 8th Kyu, Examiner Phil Humphries 1st Dan.
Huge congratulations to Jim Sensei and Bob Sensei after successfully achieving Yondan (4th degree Black Belt). Well deserved and long overdue, it reflects their dedication to Karate.
Hakuba was noted for the great attitude and training standard in the Dojo which is thanks to our fantastic Sensei’s and their guidance. Truly inspirational. omedeto gozaimashta おめでとうございました
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We will NOT be training on the below dates:
Thursday 14/2/19
Saturday 13/4/19, 11/5/19, 15/6/19, 22/6/19, 21/9/19, 30/11/19
So far we’ve had a brilliant response to the club members growing moustaches for charity, and we are just about at half our target funds raised. There are still 9 days to go so please spread the word far and wide about what we are doing – even the women are getting involved. Let’s face it, some of them look far better than the men do!
Once again here is the link. Check out the pictures, including one of Sensei Jim sporting a new look.
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/hakuba-wado-ryu
