On Friday, July 4, 18 students from Traditional Japanese Karate got their new belts for showing their skills to the board of examiners at the Quayside Leisure Centre. Shihan Ash Hawkes, shihan dai Jay Hawkes and technical director and senior instructor sensei Sally Hawkes examined the students as they went through their kihon, kata and kumite. These are the essential elements of traditional Shotokan Karate. 'Under the pressure of the testing exam we get to see what they are capable of. Ash, who has been teaching Karate in Kingsbridge for over 14 years now, says: 'Most are very nervous and no-one likes being put under scrutiny, but this way they learn they are also capable of controlling their feelings and not give in to fear.' On Monday, July 7, the Stokenham branch of TJK were also put through their paces at the village hall. Again the students had to perform but this time it was also their sensei (instructor) Jay Hawkes who was being judged, as Jay runs this dojo and he knew that the performance of his students would reflect upon him. Jay, who has 20 years' experience in karate, said: 'Although I had every confidence in my students, I was really worried as the head of our organisation, my sensei, was sitting in judgement and what he says, goes. I know that every student is a reflection of their own instructor, it is said that if you want to know what the instructor is like then look at the student. 'But they all did me proud, which was a relief.' Anyone interested in finding out more should call 01548 531808 or click on http://www.traditionaljapan">www.traditionaljapan esekarate.com.