KAT had our biggest black belt class ever this may. Parts of the test were conducted on 4 different days. The test featured students who had been training for many years. Students earned each rank from first degree to fifth degree.
The test also included some of our first ‘in utero’ students, people from families who planned for them to train and hopefully eventually earn a black belt while the children were still in the womb. We are happy our ‘future black belt’ onesies are finally living up to their promise.
The final part of the ceremony included opportunities for family and community members to detail how the candidates had inspired and taught them to live better lives. The group had been through much together in the many years since they started training. LaRon Younger, who began training in the 3rd KAT dojang (torn down to build Alameda off ramp) 19 year ago, was able to earn his master title due to his skills and work with the KAT Littleton branch.
Here are the official results:
5th Dan – Master Ron Roe, Master RJ Tomas
4th Dan – Master LaRon Younger
3rd Dan – Lexi Brown, John John Tomas, Harrison Archer, Shannon Clousing
2nd Dan – Max Rozmiarek, Max Minnig, Lydia McCullough, Isabella Walsh
1st Dan – MaryKate Berg, Ivy Yang, Lao Xiong, Cailynn Reed, Brady Clousing, Jonathan Reed, Addie Burson, JC Bell III, Cathy Burson, Erin Burson, Leena Alsalem, Antoine Martin, Joey Stockton, Jack Burson.
Master RJ Tomas had an incredible day, which his brother, niece, and nephew all increasing in rank. Although they have already accomplished amazing feats, wait for what the future holds!
Erin B from Quest easily clears obstacles on her way to breaking with flying side kick.
Shannon and Brady joined together, yet Shannon earned her first black belt five years before her son. She returned to earn a third degree as Brady completed his first.
Master Laron breaking two bricks! He’s a very powerful man!
Masterly 1 finger board break!