This is the 15th year that I have been teaching at the Institute of Traditional Karate – Do. In that time I have conducted twice yearly Black Belt Gradings and this time was one of the best, in terms of a true family feeling.
Training started on Saturday 10 – 4 with all grades. Prearranged Sparring then Kata, followed by supplementary training and Kakie which dominated the first 3 hours, and as always a healthy Lunch awaited their consumption. After all appetites were fulfilled and a catnap it was back to training, the next 2 hours would focus on Kata Applications and Katas Sanchin, Sanchin Kotai and Tensho.
Sunday morning we were blessed with a glimpse of blue sky and Sun and a raise in the temperature which was quite welcoming. I started with the traditional warm up and soon everyone isolated the fatigue from the previous day. Haishu Kata and Hojo Undo incorporating many Basics and 3 hours later the facial expressions said it all.
After the ceremonial salutation, I thanked everyone for their efforts in training; the atmosphere was one of gratification and serenity.
Then after Lunch it was time for the grading candidates to demonstrate their ability, 3 hours later with complete enthusiasm the grading was concluded. As I announced each candidate’s achievement, tears of happiness and jubilation were evident.
George Andrews
Training started on Saturday 10 – 4 with all grades. Prearranged Sparring then Kata, followed by supplementary training and Kakie which dominated the first 3 hours, and as always a healthy Lunch awaited their consumption. After all appetites were fulfilled and a catnap it was back to training, the next 2 hours would focus on Kata Applications and Katas Sanchin, Sanchin Kotai and Tensho.
Sunday morning we were blessed with a glimpse of blue sky and Sun and a raise in the temperature which was quite welcoming. I started with the traditional warm up and soon everyone isolated the fatigue from the previous day. Haishu Kata and Hojo Undo incorporating many Basics and 3 hours later the facial expressions said it all.
After the ceremonial salutation, I thanked everyone for their efforts in training; the atmosphere was one of gratification and serenity.
Then after Lunch it was time for the grading candidates to demonstrate their ability, 3 hours later with complete enthusiasm the grading was concluded. As I announced each candidate’s achievement, tears of happiness and jubilation were evident.
George Andrews
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