Presti Karate Centers hosted international black belt testing on Saturday, Oct. 8, conducted by an international board. Eight students were promoted to the rank of black belt or higher.
First-degree black belt recipients included: Lewiston's Robert Blakelock, 13; Rory McGuire, 13; and Jordan D'Angelo, 12; and Niagara Falls' Chris Smith, 15; Amanda Mrzygut, 16; Chris Drake, 13; and Philip D'Angelo, 15.
Carly Presti, 10, of Wilson ranked as the youngest-ever promoted to black belt. Presti has compiled more than five years of training.
Third-degree black belt recipients included Greg Bullock of Niagara-Wheatfield and Doug Boje of Pendleton.