When I first began kendo, 4 years ago, we had about 20-30 people in the national federation. There were a handful of dan grades / seniors but mostly everybody was a kyu grade. The highest grades in the country were Peter and Vince’s. They were both 3rd Dan.
I am really amazed and humbled that I have now achieved this level, I never thought it possible from the day I began, and I have to thank everyone in kendo in Ireland and beyond for this.
Peter and Vince have made my kendo what it is today and over the last 6 -12 months Jason and Vince have worked me into something that can resemble a sandan, and I thank you sincerely for that. They all thought me to graciously (well some times not too graciously 
) seek out and accept my weaknesses and confront them and not try to hide them or from them. Some times were easier than others but they were all worthwhile.
A different grade? I personally do not feel any different, I don’t think my kendo is any different, but as John Doherty (fellow national team member) said, “it’s a reflection of our teachers, their teaching and our club when grades are awarded,” therefore my sandan is a mark of the standard that Cork Budokai presents at this particular level (as much as the recent awards of shodan are our standard at that level).
Cork Budokai has helped me achieve this grade by its members turning up to train and learn with me; in the rain, ice, snow and sun and especially those who have travelled with me to seminars and taikai. The list is too long of whom to thank - current, past and passed members, but I appreciate all the help and support I recieved. In return, just tell me what your next level is and I will do my best to help you get there.
Also I need to thank my friends outside of Cork Budokai who have helped me greatly (and without obligation) those in Ireland and those outside of Ireland. I gotta thank the Irish team and those who travel, train and compete with me and motivate me to keep going, especially Martin Kiosew for showing me what it means to be committed to kendo, and setting and maintaining that benchmark, no one else in Ireland comes close!
Finally of course I thank Clare and my family for putting up with my passion.
Cheers,
Rob