Black Belt Training Weekend London June 2004 The OTGKA Honbu Dojo is the venue for the biannual grading where students try to show their proficiency in their chosen discipline. Feelings and emotions run high during the course of the weekend, but at the end of it if you have done your homework then there can only be success. I steer the training towards the IOGKF Curriculum, putting emphasis on Kata and Bunkai and of course San Dan Gi. With the adrenalin flowing, and an atmosphere of determination, the temperature begins to rise in the Dojo. After about an hour I allow the people to quench their thirst, the temperature has risen to 24'C, but a gentle welcome breeze comes through the door for the people contemplating what will come next. I request the people to resume their positions, the training continues for three hours until lunchtime. A well needed lunch of salad, sandwiches and fruit is prepared by one of the students. Everyone is in good spirits as I look around the Dojo. After lunch its back to training, it's not long before everyone is ready for the next three hours of training. This time the groups are split, to maximise benefit to all that are present. As is usual on Saturday evening everyone is treated to a free B B Q, and guess who the chef is. Music is played to dilute the conversations, such a relaxed atmosphere and communications between friends. After a good night's sleep, then breakfast and a shower, all are in line ready for training after the Rei. I request all grading candidates to perform their best in preparation for their test during this last two hours of training before their test, good Kata and spirit must be shown. Congratulations to the successful candidates. My thanks to all that made this a happy and special occasion see you all in Okinawa. Sensei George Andrews Home | Articles | Archive List