Karateka from across Queensland converged at Kazoku Dojo in Murgon to take part in the Winter 2012 SEQ Training and Grading Day on 3 June. Rain from the previous day and night kept the temperature at a beautiful level for training.
Sensei Leanne Sippel was honoured to welcome Kyoshi Jim Griffin and Shihan Lesley Griffin from Seiryukan Dojo at Bribie Island, Tasshi Tony Fletcher from Shishikai Dojo at Gladstone, Sensei Mark Slingo from Kensuikan Dojo at Rockhampton, Sempai Ben Oliphant from Shishijuku Dojo at Coorparoo along with their students.After the bow-in and welcome, the karateka were split into three groups with the white belts (who ranged in age from 5 to 9 years) learning Kata Naihanchin Sho and Naihanchin Sho Waza from Sensei Anne Kratzmann and Sempai Ben. The second group was taught Kata Sanchin by Kyoshi Jim while Shihan Lesley taught Naihanchin Waza to Sensei Leanne.
Demonstrations by the white belts of the recently learnt kata and kumite followed. Kyoshi Jim then personally congratulated each child, after which all except the older karateka bowed out. Demonstrations of Kata Sanchin by group two and Naihanchin Waza by Shihan Lesley and Sensei Leanne were then conducted.
The second session saw Kyoshi Jim lead the group through fighting techniques with the assistance of Tasshi Tony.
The basics of mawari kata along with learning awareness of opportune times of attack were demonstrated, ending in sparring with partners.
In the third session, Kyoshi Jim worked through Ufuchiku no Jo with Sensei Leanne, while Tasshi Tony led the rest of the group through Kata Nijushiho. Demonstrations of both kata preceded a short lunch break.
The grading commenced at 1pm with six students from Kazoku Dojo demonstrating kihon waza, kata, kumite and gokyo. With all six aged 11 or under, it was a commendable performance for this young group.
The day wrapped up with presentations of certificates and belts before all participants packed their gear and began the, for some, long journey home.
All in all, a wonderful day of shared learning with our Shorinjiryu Koshinkai Australia ‘family’