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On Saturday March 22, 2002 at 11:00 PM, the Dojo Zen Arts Martiaux in Montreal was alive with enthusiasm and energy. Fourteen candidates were chosen to do their dan grading exam –nine for shodan, three for nidan, and two for sandan. About forty karatekas from our affiliating schools, including Gaspesie were there to support and honor these courageous candidates.
At
midnight sharp, Shihan Camille Ohan presented himself to start the session with
a small speech to motivate everyone. Then
we got started with an intensive, enjoyable cardio workout that left the dojo
steaming hot. It was 2:10 AM when
this first session finished.
After
a short break, Shihan and his table judges, Senseis Vallee, Peters, and
Paparella, were dressed in formal uniform to start the judging session of
several criteria that was meticulously noted.
The criteria included spirit, attitude, knowledge and execution of basic
techniques, speed of execution, ippon kumite with the knowledge of its
originating kata, improvised self-defense, kata presentations, a spectacular and
challenging tameshiwari, and finally last but not least, the fights.
The candidates passing for Sandan had to complete 30 fights. Each
candidate had a referee that kept a close full watch on any pauses within the
fights.
When this last part was over the judges met to tabulate the results, and presented them to the candidates. The exam finished at 8:30 AM, after which we all met at a nearby restaurant to enjoy a well-deserved celebration breakfast.
I
know that this dan grading was one of the most spectacular exams I have ever
seen, from karatekas (young and old) that simply wanted to experience this
occasion and support these candidates, to the candidates themselves.
Everyone worked very hard for his or her new dan and should be very proud
for a job well done. The impression
this exam left for future shodans was positive and a little frightening, but a
goal worth working for. A special congratulation to all new Shodans, Nidans, and
Sandans, this was a day you will never forget.
Osu!
Sandan Luciano Paparella