Black belt success is a family affair in Retford

Graduates from the grading competition (from left), Donna Barker, Michael Orchard, Dean Hobson, Paul Oakes and (front) James Oakes, with instructor Andrew Blinston (right)

Paul and James Oakes were both promoted to Black Belt 2nd Dan in the competition at the Lynx Black Belt Leadership Academy.

Fellow student Donna Barker also made her Black Belt 2nd Dan under the tutorledge of the academy’s senior instructor, Master Andrew Blinston.

All three students have trained at academy for more than five years and study in the advanced Black Belt Leadership training program.

Michael Orchard and Dean Hobson were newly promoted to Black Belt 1st Dans after three years of continuous training with Master Blinston.

Both have attended personal development courses and private tuition with Master Blinston, along with attending three/ four training each week to enhance their performance of the Korean art.

After the four-hour graduation, belts and uniforms were presented to the students in front of family and guests and speeches were made by Master Blinston.

Talking about the journey and the development each student has made, Master Blinston said:

“Although each student is unique and will develop their skills at different levels within their training, the one thing that is always consistent is the positive attitude of a Black Belt that is actively training.

“Well done to all the local students who graduated on the day.”

For more details about training at the academy, call 01777 700252, visit the website at www.lynxmartialarts.com or follow them on Facebook or Twitter at @lynxacademy