MACY DALEY – at just three years old – has become the youngest member in the history of Heikina Ki Karate Club in Fairford to take and pass her first grade.

Macy, whose grandmother, sensei Carol Ralph, is one of the club’s black belt instructors, first came to classes (without participating) before she was three years old.

Macy was clearly absorbing information from the sidelines because she began to answer some of the questions in class and two weeks ago – a week before her fourth birthday – she took her first grade.

Thanks to Macy’s success, the club is to introduce a Toddler section in September, 2013. Meanwhile, grandmother Carol will later this year celebrate 26 years (20 as a black belt) with Heikina Ki Kai.

The club prides itself on having a friendly atmosphere in which families can enjoy training together and regularly holds classes for juniors as well as adults.

Within the club, there are now at least eight families of siblings or different generations.