Washinkai Karate (the Municipal Karate School of Javea) are now offering classes at both The Lady Elizabeth Primary and Senior School. The classes are open to people from outside the school as well as students and parents from LES
As part of a special "Taster Day", around 400 pupils in Lliber had the opportunity to try out the sport during their normal PE lessons.
Ray Sweeney is 3rd Dan and the Head of Washinkai in Spain. He brought four of his Black Belt Instructors to the school and pupils from years 7 to 12 watched demonstrations and also tried out some of the exercises for themselves. Several teachers also joined in the classes.
The instructors were assisted by five pupils from the school who already take part in the martial art.
Ben Silberberg has just completed his first black belt. Hari Hook, a brown belt, has won 3 gold medals and is the current International Karate Champion for his age group. Tom Winstanley and Alex Oak-Rhind have only been practicing karate for about 9 months and are just about ready to take their green belt examination.
P J Wickman, a blue belt, studies Shotokan Karate and also enjoyed taking part in the Washinkai display.
All five pupils were keen to help those trying karate for the first time.
Tom and PJ said thayenjoy their karate very much because it gives them exercise, durability, flexibility, strength, balance and self - discipline. All important qualities for life in general, not just sport.
The students participated with great concentration and enthusiasm. They learned a lot and had great fun too.
Karate will be an option offered as a part of the Physical Education qualification for both GCSE and A level qualifications.
For more information on the classes call visit http://www.washinkai.org or call:-
Ray Sweeney 637 56 44 16
Geovanny Sanchez 646 74 83 83
Sara Lakin 679 05 59 90
(See The Gallery for more photos)