The 10 hopefuls lineup for the infamous Ogwen Bank grading
It is commonly agreed that the toughest Higashi Dan gradings take place at the end of the annual week-long Ogwen Bank course.
After five days of intensive training, the mind is focussed and the techniques are sharp.
Injuries are often picked up in the week from the early morning sparring and the candidate is often fatigued before they start, having to break through the pain and exhaustion barriers.
Only the strongest of mind and body take their Dan gradings in Wales.
John rose to the challenge and, after many hopefuls were turned down, were allowed to take their place on the tarmac. John would be going for her his 4th Dan.
After a gruelling and painful examination as dozens of karate-ka watched from a number of clubs, John proved his worth.
John impressed the crowd by jumping up after being knocked out, and refusing to give up.
Congratulations to John!
John (far left) being awarded his 4th Dan
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