By Flynn Bush
In July, eight students from the Cayman Islands Purple Dragon dojo travelled to Boca Raton, Florida to take part in a grueling test of skill and will. The three-day Black Belt Examination is an event that one must be extremely prepared for; if there is any hope of success. These eight athletes from our local Purple Dragon contingent all passed this test. Candidates had to demonstrate a high level of competence in several martial arts areas such as Forms, Fighting, Self-defense, Weapons Forms and Physical Conditioning.
This newest batch of black belts for the Cayman Islands dojo boasts seven new 1st degree black belts (youngest being only 10 years old), and one new 2nd degree black belt. However, the students all decided to wait for a time when a very special guest could be present. This past Friday, October 25th, was that special time. This is because they had the distinct privilege of receiving their new ranks from the Grand Master himself, Professor Don Jacob, who is the Soke (founder) of the Purple Dragon Martial Arts System.
Since the rest of the dojo’s students were present for the Super Seminar, they all got to witness Professor Don Jacob personally placing the new ranks around the waists of these newest Black Belts. As for these eight individuals, it was well worth the three-month-long wait to receive their new rank; something they had worked so hard for. Upon speaking with other Black Belts, the honor of having your rank given to you by the founder is a sentimental and emotional experience. It is something that they will never forget. Well done.
Below are the names and ranks of this special group.
Black Belts
- Jane Schirn - 36 yrs old - 1st Degree Black Belt
- J'Hadari Lumley - 13 yrs old - 1st Degree Black Belt
- Lenari Seymour - 12 yrs old - 1st Degree Black Belt
- Lilly Haug - 13 yrs old - 1st Degree Black Belt
- Max Haug - 15 yrs old - 1st Degree Black Belt
- Michael Marzouca - 14 yrs old - 1st Degree Black Belt
- Rayon McCook - 10 yrs old - 1st Degree Black Belt
- Aidan Montana - 14 yrs old - 2nd Degree Black Belt
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