Genbu-Kai Karate in Wellington recently announced the promotion of Kota Ramsey to adult Sho-Dan Ho (1st degree probationary black belt).
Ramsey started in the Karate Kid program (3- to 6-year-olds) in April 2010 and advanced to the rank of 7th kyu, the last beginner level. In December 2010, Ramsey moved to the Junior Karate program, where he was active three times per week. He tested for his junior black belt rank during Genbu-Kai’s annual seminar events in front of Demura Shihan in October 2016 and received his ranking in February 2018.
In early 2017, due to Ramsey’s age, physical size and maturity level, he moved into the adult program, working his way, still training three days per week, toward the adult black belt.
In February 2022, Ramsey traveled to California with Sensei Moore to test in front of Demura Shihan for his adult black belt rank.
In Genbu-Kai, anyone testing for their 1st level black belt ranks are presented with either a plain red or black belt. For juniors (under 18), a plain red belt is awarded, and for those over 18, a plain black belt is awarded. After this initial promotion, students must wait and prove their dedication, and within a year’s time, are awarded their official Sho-Dan ranks, with their names embroidered on one side, and the other side with the name of the organization, in Japanese Katakana font.
In today’s society, many who test and pass this rank often quit shortly afterward, thinking they’ve reached the top. However, this is the first step in understanding the true essence of martial arts training. Therefore, many miss the benefits, and true essence, of martial arts training.
Genbu-Kai Karate is located in the Wellington Marketplace. For more information on classes, call (561) 804-1002 or visit www.floridagenbukai.com.
