Technical portions of the 2004 Black Belt testing have been held recently throughout Western Canada. The IKOK-C holds dan grading for members once per year.

Starting in January with the submission of an application to the Branch Chief, students wishing grading to dan level go through a lengthy process to finally achieve their black belt at the annual Canadian Kyokushin Karate Summer Camp.

Submitted applications are reviewed at Winter Camp where applicants then face an interview in front of a committee of dan members in attendance. Approval to proceed with the testing is given at that time. The written test is conducted in conjunction with Winter Camp.

The next step is the technical exam, held between Winter Camp and Summer Camp. Recently exams have been conducted in Cranbrook, Banff and Richmond. At this time, candidates are examined on their technical abilities. Any deficiencies are noted and the candidate has until Summer Camp to improve those items.

Special classes are held at Summer Camp for the dan candidates to have a final review of Kyokushin knowledge. Fighting is held on the third day of summer camp where the successful candidates are then promoted to black belt.

Alex Klechesky & sempai Kathy Miller

Alex Klechelsky

sempai Kathy & Ryan Desrochers

Ryan Desrochers