DARTMOUTH Karate Club senior instructor Kain Harper enjoyed a monumental day on Saturday, October 10.

He passed his fifth dan black belt grading in Reading, in front of the Karate Union of Great Britain’s senior sensei’s, Billy Higgins, Frank Brennan and Jimmy Brennan, all eighth Dan.

Kain originally started in 1986, then had a 19-year gap in his training before returning in 2008. He took over the running of the club in 2020 with the help of sensei Richard Sinnott.

“I feel incredibly proud in achieving this grade,” commented Kain.

He continued: “The lead up to the grading was gruelling, travelling to Collumpton every week for extra training with Sensei Trevor Jarrett sixth dan.

“This is the culmination of over 20 years of training and hardwork. A special mention must go to the club’s senior grades for their help in teaching this year, without this I doubt I would have succeeded.”

If you are interested in trying karate, visit the club’s website, Facebook page, or call Kain on 07816897251.