On April 15, two students from Westbury Okinawan Karate successfully tested for their Junior Blackbelt at an associated dojo in Hicksville. Franklin Rodriguez and Quentin Abram of the Westbury dojo joined other students from the Hicksville and Little Neck dojos to become the second and third students from Westbury to reach the Junior Blackbelt rank.

Sensei John Power, along with senseis from two other local dojos, were on hand to assist with the grueling test. In addition to Franklin and Quentin earning belt promotions, 15-year-old Westbury resident Dexter Golbourne, who reached the Junior Blackbelt 2nd degree rank at the age of 14, was also tested for Senior Brownbelt. One more exam and Dexter will be ready to test for Senior Blackbelt, which is a lot harder to attain.

Once their Sensei thinks they are ready, students must pre-test three times in front of Hanshi Iha 10th Dan. Once the testing is complete, the students must attend the annual National Training Seminar in Lansing, Michigan where the test is held. At this weekend event, students and senseis from all over the world gather to train together, compete in tournaments and test for all Blackbelt levels.

Hopefully, next year, Westbury dojo will send two students to test for Blackbelt in Michigan.