A Kendray man has become a black belt at karate - aged 66.
Pete Cassy, 66, of Yews Lane, has been a member of Barnsley Shotokan Karate Club for almost ten years and passed his black belt this month in a grading session run by two of the most senior instructors in Europe.
These were senseis Andy Sherry, who was the first to be awarded a black belt in the UK, and Frank Brennan, who captained the team that beat Japan in the 1990 world championships.
Pete is now the proud owner of a silk black belt and says he is thinking of learning how to teach the self-defence sport now he has met the minimum requirement.
He said: "I'm still in a bit of a daze, really, I didn't think I would get there. But I just kept going and thought 'why not?'
"I'm hoping I can be an inspiration to some of the younger members coming through because, if I can do it, anyone can."
Instructor Mick Padgett said: "To take and pass a grading under the watchful eyes of these two legends is indeed a fantastic achievement for anyone, let alone for someone of Pete's age - it is testimony to his hard work and dedication."
Younger members of the club have also passed their black belt gradings in the last year, including Paul Parry with fifth dan, Zoey Thomson, Heather Thomson and Dave Bennett second dan and Joshua Chew first dan. Details about joining the club can be found at www.barnsleyskc.co.uk
