THE Saltcoats-based Shibumi Karate Club continue to produce champions who perform at the highest level - more than 30 years after they were founded.

Back in 1987, the club were first established in the town under the tutelage of Sensei John Deans and Sensei Liz Devlin (now retired) with John taking over sole care for the club shortly thereafter.

Today thanks to Sensei John's dedication and passion for Karate Do, they have about 70 regular students - many of whom are past or present medal winners - and champions at Scottish, British, European and World level.

The class also have a large number of other Black Belts and in total so far more than 50 students have attained their Black Belt (DAN Ranking) whilst being at Shibumi

The Japanese word 'Shibumi' means 'effortless perfection'. In Japanese culture, Shibumi implies a simplicity of spirit; an attitude of refinement without pretension, honesty without apology, beauty without artifice; it is being without the angst of becoming. A state of Shibumi must be found, not won.

Not everyone can be a championship winner, but success at personal levels are achievable with the family-orientated ethos within Shibumi.

One of their rising stars Kyle Bruce (13) from Saltcoats, a Second Year pupil at Ardrossan Academy, trains regularly at the class three or four days a week. Along with several others, Kyle also trains with the JKA Scotland Squad, who meet in Dunfermline and Saltcoats on alternative months throughout the year.

He secured a gold medal for victory in the Meadowbank SKGB Open last October and bronze for third place in the SKGB Scottish Championships, held in Wishaw the following month.

Some students from the club also recently passed their Kyu Grading examinations (Coloured Belt).

The class instructors are: John Deans 5th Dan JKA Scotland National Coach; Sensei Calum Medine 3rd Dan JKA and former Scotland international competitor; James Campbell 3rd Dan and Scotland international; James Sinclair 3rd Dan JKA and ex-Scotland international and Colin Stewart 2nd Dan JKA and Tiger Cub instructor.

Shibumi Karate Club welcome new members and currently meet at St Matthew's Academy KA Studio on Mondays and Wednesdays, with everyone from beginners to advanced

Everyone should feel free to come along. The club offer discounts to family groups and encourage all to participate in a family friendly but active class where your goals in karate will be achieved if you are willing to put in a good deal of effort.