JKA Scotland held its annual Special Course and Dan Grading on Saturday 2nd May, welcoming brown and black belt members to Dunfermline High School. Students gathered with great anticipation for the three‑hour training session led by Ohta Sensei, 8th Dan JKA.
From the outset, it was clear that the course would be both challenging and inspiring. Following a warm‑up, all grades trained together for the first two hours. Sensei gradually built the session from fundamental basics to applying these into partner work, with a strong emphasis on distance, speed, and movement. The atmosphere was focused, energetic, and highly engaging.
After a short break, students divided into kata groups of their choice. Ohta Sensei was supported by members of the JKA Scotland Technical Committee:
- Ohta Sensei – Jitte and kata application
- Sensei Alan Simpson – Bassai Dai
- Sensei Bert Stewart – Jion
- Sensei Gordon Williamson & Sensei John Deans – Heian Kata training for all Squad members in preparation for the upcoming European Championships
Before concluding the course, all students attempting Dan Grading were invited to perform their chosen kata in front of all students & Ohta Sensei.
At the end of the session, students expressed their appreciation to Ohta Sensei for an excellent course, with everyone leaving motivated and equipped with new areas to develop in their training.
A special announcement was made to congratulate Sensei Bert Stewart on achieving 6th Dan JKA at the JKA England Spring Course.
Dan Grading Results
Following the course, the Dan Grading took place. JKA Scotland is pleased to congratulate the following successful students:
1st Dan – Shodan
- Maria Hynd (JKA Dunfermline)
- Paul McGrane – (JKA Dalgety Bay)
- James Richardson- (Shibumi)
- Andrew Smith – (JKA Bass Rock)
- Shannon Howie- Law – (Shibumi)
2nd Dan – Nidan
- Tyrone Farlam (Carnegie)
- Fiona McLeod (JKA Dalgety Bay)
- Gavin Nicol – (JKA Dalgety Bay)
We would also like to congratulate the following JKA Scotland members who successfully passed Dan Gradings and International Qualification Exams at the JKA England Spring Gasshuku 26/4/26
- Bert Stewart (Instructor/Technical Committee) Passed 6th Dan JKA – (JKA Dalgety Bay/ Musselburgh & North Berwick)
- Sophie Brumm 3rd Dan JKA – (JKA Dalgety Bay)
- Marty Sommerville – Passed B licence referee test
We extend our thanks to all JKA Scotland members who attended and supported the event, and to Ohta Sensei for delivering an outstanding course.
Upcoming Events
The next events on the JKA Scotland calendar include:
- Kyu Gradings
- Squad Training – Saturday 20th June
- East Region Championships
- JKA Scotland International Gasshuku
For further details, please contact your instructor or Regional Officer.