Although entering a smaller number of competitors Roffey had some notable successes in the annual SEMKA Kumite (fighting) Competition at Tanbridge School on Saturday

Roffey entered 6 competitors in the competition four Juniors and two Seniors. Alicia Smith and Daniel Goddard although successful in previous competitions were eliminated in the early round. Richard Tyler then turned the form book upside down by fighting very well and beating a very experienced black belt. He went on to fight in the final but lost in a closely fought match. Michael Plater fought very well from the start and moved into the final in his section. He was up against a very experienced and tough fighter who also trains with us at Roffey, Kelly Overington. The match was very close all through with Michael 1 point behind up to the last few seconds when he delivered a perfect roundhouse kick to the head scoring 3 points. This took him to a 17 to 15 point win and 1st place. Penny Roscoe and Elaine Overington fought out a tough round robin section with Sensei Lloyds daughter who is also a Black belt. Although unable to beat her both put up a spirited and competitive fight with Pennie losing 23 pts to 21. Pennie eventually got 2nd place and Elaine 3rd.
Daniel Goddard was named as one of four competitors who showed excellent spirit. He was asked in his fight whether his opponent had landed a low punch, Daniel very honestly indicated that it was not low and had scored. This impressed all the officials involved.
The competition was fought under new rules and all competitors from all clubs involved fought competitively and fairly.They were all a credit to their clubs and karatedo.