Kirsty McAlpine
East Neuk SK2000 Club
4th Dan Black Belt
Kirsty began training at Cupar karate club in 1983 from the age of 7, under Chief Instructor James Ford 6th dan. With 27 years of karate under her belt, Kirsty remains to date, one of the longest serving students still training with James. Kirsty has competed in kumite since she was 15 and decided to finally retire from competition after one last crack at the Scottish open in 2008. Kirsty's fighting career has taken her throughout Scotland, England and Ireland, providing her with years of experience to help teach a new generation of students. At the 2008 association championships Kirsty was invited to fight in the men's kumite open category due to there being no opponent for her in the ladies event. Kirsty won her 1st fight before losing to the eventual winner. This Earned her the 'Bobby Garry' trophy, a prestigious award given to a student who displays the most spirit and courage on the day. Kirsty has been an inspiration to many students and her dedication to the sport make her a popular figure throughout Shotokan 2000
Kirsty passed 3rd Dan 20th December 2015.
Kirsty was awarded her 4th Dan on 18th December 2022