A series of grading examinations, held recently at the Mġarr Karate Club, saw a group of martial artists elevated to higher levels in the rankings.

Anthony Gauci is now a Black Belt second Dan while Jacob Camilleri, Matthew Rapa, Annabel Vella and Etienne Degabriele Ferrante are new Black Belt first Dan.

The judging board was made up of Sensei James Galea and Sensei Anthony Zammit.

“All our martial artists have been training relentlessly and gave their all… this was evident during the grading,” Malta Karate Federation president Kenneth Abela said in a statement.

“ Their high level of fitness, as well as technical knowledge, were predominant and we are truly proud as a federation to see such talent flourish.

“One of karate’s fundamental value is perseverance, something our Black Belts have learned through hard work and dedication.”