Young Clayton is a true Ninja (From Penarth Times)

Young Clayton is a true Ninja

FIVE-YEAR-OLD Clayton Thompson is very likely to be the youngest graded ninja in the country.

He received his first grading from his instructor, 6th Dan Black Belt Marc Moor.

Clayton has been a regular student with the Sleeping Dragon Ninjutsu group in Penarth for three months. His first grading consisted of him showing a series of stances or body positions which he had to memorise.

This first test is the same for all students who enrol regardless of age.

He is now training for his next grading which will consist of forward, backwards and sideways break-falling also forwards, backwards and sideways rolling, these skills he is particularly good at because he enjoys them so much.

Clayton is not treated any differently than any of the other students, he has to demonstrate techniques and movements to the rest of the group as all the students do, this alone has given him enormous confidence.

The Sleeping Dragon Ninjutsu group was formed in February, 2001 and has grown from an empty room to a strong group of approximately 50 students from five-year-old Clayton to senior students. The group is currently enjoying a lot of interest and is expanding rapidly.

Training is split into two sessions, one for juniors and the other for senior students (from around the age of 13).

The training is fun and is purely concerned with practical self protection and has no sporting element whatsoever.

Anyone wanting more information, please tel Marc or Michelle on 01793 752735 or 07776 202011, or e-mail theacademyuk@aol.com.