Shihan Trevor Rustin of Trevor’s Kyokushin Karate based in Westridge, achieved the 5th Dan in Mauritius at the end of last month.
Rustin, affectionately known as Sensei T, started Kyokushin Karate just over 31 years ago.
“I always had an interest in Martial Arts and after the soccer season in Bridgetown, would enter the boxing hall until soccer starts again,” he says.
In 1992, he was introduced to Kyokushin Karate and so the journey started. Living and growing up on the Cape Flats and Mitchell’s Plain in particular, youth and adults alike, needed Kyokushin Karate, especially with all the social challenges.”
The 5th Dan grade in Kyokushin Karate is a huge achievement, says Rustin.
“Currently in the greater Cape Town area, there are no more than 10 Shihans with 5th Dan and above. It is not very common,” says Rustin.
“By sharing my road to 5th Dan with the community, I hope to inspire our parents to take that first step and enroll (their children) in our karate school. Once there, we will plant the seed that everything is possible. That they need to dream big dreams and work hard to realise it. As a Kyokushin instructor, I find joy and fulfilment through the success of my students,” he says.
“It is an ideal time to get the youth involved as it would steer them away from a life of crime as they (get) older. The adults will benefit from the exercise and healthy lifestyle as well as having the added bonus of self-defence capabilities.”
Some of the notable highlights for the school include podium finishes and championships for several international competitions, including the 2019 All Africa Championships and the 2021 World Kata Championships for several of his students.
“At the end of February 2023, my Shihan from Seychelles invited me to come test for my 5th Dan.
To receive the invite was an honour and nerve-wracking at the same time.
“My preparation now involved training five days a week, a minimum of two hours. A lot of preparation was spent on my conditioning as I knew the physical aspect of the Shihan Phillip Moustokuche, 7th Dan states. And I quote: ‘Osu Shihan, I see you are battle-scarred and still aching. They are badges (of) honour’.”
Rustin demonstrated the true spirit of Kyokushin, that of persevering. The grading exam was tough and while the younger participants faltered, Rustin kept going.
The fights were the ultimate test and none of his opponents did him any favours. By the 41st fight, he was still standing, a testament to his true spirit of perseverance.
The grade of 5th Dan is a worthy recognition of his pursuit of excellence in Kyokushin Karate.
