Karate man Matt given top honour

Jun 8 2012 by Clair Fullarton, Kilmarnock Standard

KILMARNOCK Shotokan karate instructor Matt McLaughlin was delighted to be recognised as a ‘continental referee’ at the recent World Union of Karate Federations, European Championships in Irvine.

To receive the prestigious award Matt had to attend two full days of practical and theory training; a written exam and further two days of observation under ‘live event conditions’.

Matt’s understanding of the rules and their application was recognised on ‘finals’ day when he was asked to referee a kata final and three fighting finals, before receiving his certificate.

Matt said: “It was a great honour to be asked to referee on finals day, this level of recognition is only ever awarded to the best referees, the pressure was incredible with contestants and their supporters watching for even the slightest mistake.

“I am pleased that WUKF have recognised my effort and hope that I can use what I’ve learned to improve the standard of our clubs competitors.”

Matt who started to study karate in 1979 was back at the club this week with students preparing for the FEKO (Federation of England Karate Organisation) open event for children and a grading at the end of the month.

Ultimately the club have their eyes on selections for the WUKF Children’s Europeans to be held in Sheffield in 2013 and are always looking for new members.

He added: “After this brilliant international event it’s back to business as usual this week, but I’d like to thank North Ayrshire Council, The Scottish Karate Alliance and Thorne Travel for all their work to bring such a high quality event to Ayrshire.”

Burakudo Karate Club trains at St Matthew’s Church Hall on Sundays from 5.45pm to 6.45pm and on Wednesdays from 6.45pm to 7.45pm . New students are always welcome.

Call Matt on 07904341979 for more details

There are also Burakudo Karate classes in Crosshouse and Stewarton, phone Bill Hair on 07979222986.