Bristol Karate Academy

For three years running now, we've talked about how we've needed to embrace the successes of the year - because they've been so astonishing that we can't imagine we'd exceed them. Yet here we are again.

Even the most optimistic of person could barely have imagined what a year it's been. Our 'purple patch' where we've seen a record number of dan grading passes and a phenomenal eight JKS European medals head back to Bristol.

You are the people who give us something to celebrate. From new starters hitting the ground running through to some of the best grading days in recent memory, you've all inspired the instructor team with your determination and incredible team spirit.

So on Sunday 14th December, it was our turn to celebrate you, with our annual Christmas Party & Academy Award. And while it's not possible to award every inspiring effort seen across the Academy, we are proud to recognise the following people who excelled in 2025.

WARRIOR OF THE YEAR

Awarded to a girl and boy who have shown exceptional effort levels and potential throughout the year.

Girl: Joni Fenton-Zikking
Boy: Arthur Fossey

BEST NEWCOMER

Awarded to a member that’s new or has passed their first grading in the last 12 months.

10 years or under: Jack Cooper
11-15 years: Charlie Gibbard
16 years and above: Peter Banszky

FUTURE STAR

Awarded to an outstanding karateka aged 10 years or under at each of our dojos.

Backwell: Thomas Seaver
Long Ashton: Martin Billard
Nailsea: Monaghan Mitchell
Westbury-on-Trym: Oliver Gibbard

RISING STAR

Awarded to a karateka that has shown real strides forward in the last 12 months.

11-15 years: Eliot Bowman
16 years and above: Luke Kerr

OUTSTANDING FEMALE

Awarded to females showing great potential, skill, courage or tenacity.

Novice to 4th kyu: Jessica Ferguson-Tatnall
3rd kyu and above: Lucie Tarr

SPECIAL RECOGNITION

Awarded to a karateka that has stood out amongst a multitude of great Academy members.

15 years and below: Luke Mashford
16 years and above: Olive Davies

BILL WINFIELD SHIELD

Awarded annually to the most outstanding karateka aged under 16.

Benjamin Griffiths

VIRTUTE ET INDUSTRIA SHIELD

Awarded annually to the most outstanding karateka aged 16 and above who embodies the values of our club’s motto, ‘By virtue and industry’.

George Tarr

Congratulations to all of our winners. Keep pushing hard and continuing to role model the behaviours that will keep driving our standards higher in the years ahead.

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