DURING the fifty-four years of Ballarat Karate Club\u2019s existence its highest accolade, the Dragon, has only been presented to forty members.<\/p>\n
Paul Schaper is the latest recipient of the award which is based on fighting ability, heart, courage and exceptional dedication to personal karate development.<\/p>\n
Mr Schaper, 47, said he was very surprised when he was presented with the award.<\/p>\n
\u201cTo people outside the club it means nothing, but to be judged by my peers as being worthy of the award makes me feel very proud,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Mr Schaper was awarded the Dragon in a surprise presentation led by Hanshi, Dr Barry Packham 9th Dan, and Kyoshi, Wayne Reddrop 7th Dan.<\/p>\n
Mr Reddop said the club\u2019s Japanese motto for the Dragon means, \u201cSeven times down, eight times up.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWe felt that Paul deserved the Dragon because of his obvious extraordinary ability to carry on against all odds,\u201d he said. \u201cHe has great patience and perseverance.\u201d<\/p>\n
A club member for nine years, Mr Schaper has progressed to a champion of the Okinawan karate style, Shorin Ryu.<\/p>\n
He holds a first degree black belt and is currently completing his training to achieve a second degree black belt.<\/p>\n
When he is not training or practising Mr Schaper teaches the junior members.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt can be a bit challenging at times, but they are a good bunch most times,\u201d he said. \u201cI enjoy being able to pass on my knowledge.<\/p>\n
\u201cKarate is a great way to keep fit and all the club members are good people.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
DURING the fifty-four years of Ballarat Karate Club\u2019s existence its highest accolade, the Dragon, has only been presented to forty members. Paul Schaper is the latest recipient of the award which is based on fighting ability, heart, courage and exceptional dedication to personal karate development. Mr Schaper, 47, said he was very surprised when he […]<\/p>\n