The Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, along with Officers and Ranks of the Guyana Defence Force, extend their congratulations to Lieutenant (Lt) Keith Beaton on his achievements in Karate.
In just one year, he progressed from a beginner to a 1st Dan Black Belt, an achievement that underscores his dedication, focus, and resilience.
Lieutenant Beaton began his Karate journey in April 2024 alongside his sister, inspired by their father, Deputy Superintendent Keith Beaton of the Guyana Police Force, better known as Master Keith Beaton.
Joining the Association of Shotokan Karate Guyana at the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), Thomas Lands, he quickly made his mark, winning two gold and one bronze at his debut in the 4th International Karate Diagaku World Cup. At the Guyana Karate Federation (GKF) Senior National Championship as a Purple Belt, he earned two silver and one bronze, securing a spot on the national team. Competing as a Brown Belt at the GKF National Karate Championship, he added two bronze medals to his record.
After earning his 1st Dan Black Belt, Lieutenant Beaton represented Guyana at the Central Caribbean Cup in Panama. Returning home, he competed in the GKF Senior National Championship 2025, claiming gold in the Open Kumite Team Male alongside his father, silver in Male Kumite Individual 84+ kg, silver in Team Kata Open, and bronze in Open Male Kata Individual.
Earning a black belt in just one year is an exceptional accomplishment, as most practitioners take three to five years to master the fundamentals of kihon to the precision of kata and the intensity of kumite. Lieutenant Beaton achieved this while balancing full-time service as a GDF officer and competing successfully in multiple tournaments, demonstrating the discipline, focus, and resilience that define both Karate and military service.
His rapid rise to 1st Dan Black Belt demonstrates that being a soldier extends beyond defending national borders and encompasses dedication, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence in all endeavors. Lieutenant Beaton reflects the Guyana Defence Force’s commitment to developing members who are multifaceted and capable of excelling beyond their core duties. He serves as an inspiration to fellow officers and ranks, reinforcing the Force’s vision of producing leaders who contribute meaningfully to both service and society.
