HARD work undertaken over the past few months has paid off for 11 Penarth Shotokan Karate Club students.

In their latest karate grading examinations, involving performing basic techniques (kihon), pre-arranged sparring (kumite) and a memorised sequence of movements (kata), all the students from the Penarth AKAD (Association of Karate and Allied Disciplines) were successful.

The following grades were awarded: 2nd kyu (brown white stripe) - Phoebe Lewis and Laura Ward; 4th kyu (purple) - Felice Cirino, Megan Cirino, Alex Murphy, Hannah Murphy, Jamie Murphy and Sofia Creedon; 6th kyu (green) - Chris Evans; 7th kyu (yellow) - Thomas Firth; 9th kyu (orange) - Eve Murphy.

The club trains on a Monday and Wednesday evening at Ysgol Pen-y-Garth’s sports hall (Sully Road) between 6-7pm. There is also a training session on Monday evenings between 7-8pm for higher grades.

Club instructor Stuart Creedon (5th dan) has 28 years of martial arts experience and has taught adults and children to gain discipline, confidence and respect within the club's activities, which, in turn, is applied beyond the dojo. He said: "I have had immense satisfaction from teaching this group of individuals. Their level of commitment and attitude towards their continued development has been inspiring.

"The enthusiasm at the club has been infectious and there has been a noticeable improvement in adults and children across the grades. I am extremely proud of the every student and the standard they have shown in achieving their new grades."

The club is an opportunity for youngsters to be physically active, have fun and meet new friends in an enjoyable and friendly atmosphere. New members are always welcome.

For further information, please contact Stuart on 07919 058 069.