Sport
7 August, 2025
Black belts
TALENTED karate students David Howe and Rowan Stephens have been rewarded for their dedication to the sport, with both passing their black belt grading.
Both David and Rowan have been members of Funakoshi Karate for the last seven years, learning under local instructor, Peter Conroy.
“Seventeen years ago I began my journey as a supporter worker with Cooinda Terang, having previously had no experience in the disability sector at all,” Conroy said.
“Eleven years ago the Terang gym opened and I was asked if I’d be interested in starting a karate club based in Terang.
“A lady from Cooinda also expressed her life-long desire to learn karate and from there our All Abilities class was born.”
Both David and Rowan have been working hard over the last seven years, with the aim of earning their black belts.
“They have both trained 40 weeks a year (during school terms) and last December were both graded to black belt.
“They have also been to the Funakoshi Tournament in Warrnambool and have been welcomed into the martial arts community and now continue to train, working towards their 2nd Dan Black Belt.
“Their dedication and enthusiasm is incredible; they’re an inspiration to many others.”
Read More: local