Honbu Dojo Grading Weekend

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