BVI’s Finest Warriors Return Victorious from Black Belt Grading in Trinidad and Tobago

The echoes of celebration filled the air as the Purple Dragon warriors returned to the British Virgin Islands (BVI) after a rigorous black belt grading in Trinidad and Tobago.

Shihan Bevon Baptiste, the head of the Purple Dragon dojo (BVI), expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and took pride in the achievements of the 15 candidates who not only represented themselves but also their families, the dojo, and the entire British Virgin Islands.

“This is a huge deal. We have upgraded to black belt, and they’ve done it with excellence,” Shihan Baptiste proudly proclaimed to the gathered crowd at the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport.

The warriors underwent three intense days of grading, where they faced challenges that tested their physical and mental resilience. Shihan Bevon Baptiste highlighted the significance of the achievement, emphasising that each candidate contributed to the BVI having the largest international presence in Trinidad for the event.

Among the distinguished achievers were Sensei Otis Jacob, who attained a fourth-degree black belt, and Dr. Mitchell Penn and Nicolas Laurac, who reached the title of Senpai at third-degree black belt. Shihan Baptiste commended their dedication and hard work, emphasising the unique journey each warrior undertook to earn their black belts.

Instructor Jovan Cline seized the opportunity to address the crowd, expressing his excitement and pride. He reflected on the significance of the black belt grading, highlighting the mental strength and discipline instilled by Purple Dragon martial arts.

“One of the main things that we teach at Purple Dragon is that it’s 90% mental and 10% physical. We build up the inner self, and once that inner self is strengthened, you can stand stronger,” shared Instructor Cline.

The warriors’ journey included grueling physical exercises, self-defense routines, and intense sparring against competitors from around the world. Their representation of the BVI showcased the strength and skill nurtured within the Purple Dragon Dojo.

Grandmaster Professor Don Jacob, the founder of Purple Dragon, played a pivotal role throughout the grading weekend. His lectures, stories, and lessons provided a foundation that extends beyond the physical aspects of martial arts.

As the warriors returned to a hero’s welcome, the crowd erupted into chants of the Purple Dragon anthem, symbolising the unity and strength of the martial arts family.

The celebration continued with individual warriors sharing their experiences. Sensei Verne Turnbull spoke of the challenges faced and the lessons learned, emphasising the mental and emotional growth witnessed during the grading.

Dr. Miles Pin, who observed the grading, expressed admiration for the competitors and highlighted the level of competition in Trinidad. The Purple Dragon warriors were praised for their immaculate performance and representation of the British Virgin Islands.

As the warriors gathered, Shihan Baptiste led them in traditional martial arts exercises, demonstrating the strength and unity of the Purple Dragon family. The celebration concluded with heartfelt congratulations, acknowledging the warriors’ resilience, dedication, and the honour they brought to the British Virgin Islands through their accomplishments.