Dad and daughter in black belt double
A dad and daughter proved to be a dream duo – as they both claimed their black belts in karate.
Hugh McNulty, 45, and 13-year-old daughter Emma both claimed the top prize in their sport in junior and adult categories at a recent grading.
The East Mains pair have been training towards the goal together for eight years.
And Hugh was delighted to reach it with his daughter by his side.
He said: “It was great. We got to support each other up until we went out there.
“It is just you in a room, being watched and graded by the sensei, but it was good to be able to offer each other support beforehand.
“Emma was up first and I was fifth so we could watch each other. “It was a great day for the family.” St Andrew’s and St Bride’s High school pupil Emma started out as a member of the Tekobushi Karate Club at the John Wright Sports Centre.
And Hugh thought it would be a great way to get healthy.
He has been delighted to see his daughter boost her own self-belief.
“Emma got into it and I went along to watch her at a gala day,” said the new black belt.
“I was putting on weight and wasn’t getting any younger so decided to give it a try.
“It has been great for me in that respect and Emma has felt the benefits as well.
“She has dyslexia and I know how much of a knock that can give to kids in school.
“From karate she has improved her hand-to-eye coordination. Emma has built up so much confidence from it.
“It’s a really high-pressure situation, performing your routine in front of a room of people and being graded, but she handles it so well.
“I have seen her grow. She isn’t as shy as she was and is much more confident in herself and knows how to defend herself. I’m really proud of her.”
Karate is a real family affair for the McNultys, with Emma’s sister Olivia, 8, taking part in the junior ranks.
Hugh thinks it has helped the family come together.
He said: “Emma has been training with the adults since she was a purple belt, which is four classes down from where she is now.
“She helps train the younger kids and even helps her sister out.
“It’s developed a great bond between me and the kids, particularly me and Emma.”