Karate: Ashihara Grading Ceremony |30 July 2022

Souvenir photo of young karatekas who have blue stripes on their white belts

Sumita Joubert promoted to black belt

• 20 young karatekas receive blue stripes for progress

Female karateka Sumita Joubert has been promoted to black belt after successfully completing her test for Shodan-Ho (apprentice black belt) to earn the title of Senpai.

Senpai Joubert received her black belt during a special grading ceremony held last week at the Ashihara Karate School’s main dojo at the Mont Fleuri secondary school where 20 young karatekas from the two dojos on Mahé were promoted to one up to three blue stripes on their white belts, showcasing the progress made in this style since they started training six months ago.

According to head of school, Shihan Egbert Moustache, the promotion was for new members who did not grade at their Easter camp in April.

He said the school now has a lot of young members and it is important to manage training to keep them motivated, noting that the Senpai (instructors) work hard to ensure that the standard is maintained at all levels in spite of having a lot of members.

As for the new Senpai who has been training on and off since 1999, she has showed great form and determination to complete the gruelling test successfully.

During the early 2000s, she was a force at junior level and won medals locally and internationally in karate championships.

She said the black belt is a personal achievement for her and the school.

Moving forward her goal is to be a role model to young girls and teach them karate – Ashihara style – and self-defence so that they can build their confidence.

Shihan Moustache and the instructors thanked all the parents and individuals who assisted in making this important event a complete success.

The Ashihara dojo, which also teaches self-defence to women, caters for serious athletes while at the same time encourages a “family friendly” atmosphere and accommodates older athletes, as well as anyone physically challenged.

There are dojos at Anse Royale and Mont Fleuri on Mahé, and one dojo on La Digue, while interested individuals can check the school’s website and Facebook page for more information.

Compiled by Roland Duval