Grading Weekend at the OTGKA Honbu Dojo

As is the tradition for a grading weekend enthusiasic examinees were exposed to the full range of basic techniques on the Friday evening.

Saturday saw a much bigger turnout which filled the Honbu Dojo to its capacity, the training was characteristic of the type I have conducted over the past 30 years, I'm sure that all of you who have trained with me in the past know what this means.Team work dominated the training on Saturday with basics and kata applications, the atmosphere was one of complete determination and camaraderie.

My job is to see that everyone enjoys their training through hard work, and achieves their aspirations. There is no secret to Okinawan Traditional Goju Ryu only hard work and faith.

Sunday morning began with the IOGKF warm-up, visiting basics and on to Chi Ishi and impact work followed by Kata training from Gekisai Dai Ichi through to Sesan along with Tensho and Sanchin. After lunch (thanks once again to Chris) it was time for people to attempt the examination, after a gruelling 3 ½ hours covering the IOGKF grading syllabus it was time for the examinees to rest and await my descision.

I am proud to have been part of this weekend and to have witnessed the determination, sweat and sheer hard work of all present.

My special thanks to Maroulla Sullivan for her hard work in making this weekend a success.

George Andrews

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