Hizen Kendo Events Blog

A new nidan

2012-02-10T05:04:00.001Z

For those who aren't aware (which is probably many of you as Dave was trying to be quiet and modest) David Jordan passed his nidan at Mumeishi last Sunday (05/02/12).
So congratulations!! And I hope your journey to sandan is easier than the journey to Mumeishi in the snow, and a lot more enjoyable!

KANGEIKO 2012 A NEW START A NEW DOJO

2012-01-17T10:42:00.001Z

Day One: Paul Gray

Our new dojo has prompted a rethink on the general direction of the club and a renewed determination by our Sensei Jeff Humm to focus on the best traditional kendo practice and to insist on the highest standards of effort and etiquette in the dojo. This chimed nicely with the traditional kangeiko (News Year’s practice) theme of returning to basics. And boy, did we start with basics.

We started with shizentai – natural standing position and moved to more general reigi, etiquette or proper behaviour – and correct sonkyo position. Footwork was emphasised as Sensei asked that we take care to stand and sonkyo in migi-shizentai (the normal kendo standing position with right foot slightly forward) rather than twisting the left leg or drawing the ankles together as is sometimes done by people in sonkyo.

Kendoka should pay attention to small details and straight lines are important – so always check that you are in line with the person standing or sitting next to you (on the side towards the senior end of the dojo). This in time leads to better understanding of awareness of our surroundings.

Basic cutting followed, with some suburi to get us warmed up. Again, perhaps the long break or simply bad habits meant that numerous errors in technique soon emerged. Sensei pointed out the need to start with the correct chudan-no-kamae otherwise the ‘swing’ to begin with the correct shape. This meant ensuring that the tip of the shinai (kensen) is not simply pulled back with the hands and fore-arms being exposed to a kote attack, but rather the emphasis is to push forward and raise the shinai above the head with the hands and wrists remaining behind the tsuka (hilt). Hands should be relaxed and rather than twisting the wrists around the shinai to make the crisp end of a cut (sai) this should be achieved simply by slightly closing your relaxed hands around the tsuka at the moment of impact or when you want to stop the shinai in flight.

Practicing our cuts – both as static suburi and the moving across the dojo, meant reminding ourselves of ki-ken-tai-ichi – mind, body and sword as one. In particular, the importance of simply hitting the floor with your front foot as the cut lands and the kiai (shout) is given - was emphasized. Sensei explained that careful observation of one’s own body movement and self-awareness is needed by every kendoka.

Kendoka should dress smartly and treat the ‘outfit’ as a uniform rather than as sports clothes. Kendo is, after all, a martial discipline and soldiers on parade are never sloppy. Many people wear their tare to low. Do are too are often tied low as well. Himo on both the do and men should not be excessively long (they should be 40cm at the back when tied). Himo should also be smoothed flat and not left twisted.

So, that was pretty much what we covered on day one of kangeiko. Basic basics!

Day: Two Nari

After the first night of the kangeiko many braved the horrid weather conditions and aching muscles from lack of practice over the December period. Many changes had been made to etiquette in the dojo and the contribution of everyone to the dojo. As we now have a new dojo Sensei has decided to go back to the roots of kendo and practice kendo in an orderly manner with awareness of others around you. The practice started with a recap of the 1^st night with practising of a good quality men cut. Those of us who hadn’t made it to the first night had to quickly get up to speed and get on par with the rest of the group. Again this all had to be performed in timing with the rest of the group and not go off into our own rhythm.

After performing men cuts for a while Sensei asked to go back to the very beginning and look at our footwork. Many of us started off well but as the cuts progressed the footwork became narrower and more eschewed where some of us resembled a tight rope walker. Another key point was that many of us were not taking a large enough stride when cutting and those who did, did so cutting forwards but upon going back to chudan the backwards step was smaller so there were net forwards movement. To make us concentrate on footwork we placed our shinai’s on the floor and had to step both forwards and backwards the length of the shinai from the tsuba. Once many had a feel of this Sensei moved on to co-ordination of the cut to make sure footwork and cut finish at the same time.

We then moved onto motodachi work with emphasis on both kakarite side and motodachi pushing each other to work hard. The first exercise involved the motodachi moving in a random direction with the kakarite side following both in chudan. The aim of the exercise was not to break shinai contact. As the motodachi side moved faster the harder it was to follow. This was then followed up by a series of techniques which the motodachi opened up for but were also allowed to move around the dojo to encourage the kakarite to come into correct distance then cut. So the motodachi had to work on their footwork posture whilst kakarite distance and technique. The Motodachi were then asked to make the kakarite side to work harder and move more. You could feel the spirit lift a little more at this as everyone tried their hardest to perform at their best.

Sensei then moved on from this exercise so that the motodachi were allowed to perform oji waza to the kakarite cuts. The aim here was the same as before but now the kakarite had to try and hit the motodachi before the motodachi could perform the oji waza. Everyone gave their all with some good success on both sides. There was some real energy flowing through the group at this point.

Finally we finished the class with a few rounds of kirikaeshi and Sensei explained the importance of it in general kendo and at grading times. This was good insight especially as many people will be grading this year.

Sensei then concluded the class and prepared us for the 3^rd day and reminded the cohort not to forget the lessons of days 1 and 2 and that day 3 will be harder.

Phil

Hizen’s kangeiko on 6 January maintained the emphasis on reigi, we started with a recap of all that we had practiced up to now with additional information and detail. Once this had been covered and we had been warmed up in the process Sensei then started to look at the correct behaviour in shiai for both competitors and referees.

The first shock was that there was no area marked so the competitors and referees had to mentally visualise the space and keep within this area. The Competitors also had to refrain from using tsubazeriai and if we came into this position both sides had to move back out into distance at the same time as in the action of wakarei. Sensei explained that this is a very high level of respect and discipline and shows a higher level of kendo understanding which also produced a much higher level of skills.

As a referee we had to control the matches with firm commands and make sure that the competitors felt that we had control of the match. In addition we had to explain our action and give reasons for our actions so the pressure was on. At the end of the practice Sensei informed us that this would be the format for our internal taikai which would be held on Sunday 8^th due to problems we faced at the end of last year with the sports centre being closed.

Saturday 7^th, This was a day of rest for everyone and it gave everyone chance for there bodies to recover and think about what had been covered so far.

Hizen Winter Taikai “2011” Tatos

There were 3 new and exciting changes to the Hizen Winter taikai this year: firstly was the new dojo; secondly was that no lines were used during the competition, the area was dictated and controlled by the shinpan. So now there was pressure to be spatially aware whilst fighting and also pressure on the shinpan to manage the fight more strictly.

The final change to the Hizen 2011 Winter Taikai was that it took place in 2012. Of itself that has little relevance but this timing placed the taikai in the middle of Kangeiko which created an interesting juxtaposition of the traditional kendo we'd been practicing and our instinctive 'shiai' kendo.

The first competition was for nidan and below and was split into 2 pools of 6. The usual 1 point handicap was applied to dan grades. This combined with the progress of the kyu/mu grades led to some surprising fights.

In the first pool Machiko scored a nice kote on Armando (who won best shikake waza) and the surprises continued when Alex M very quickly scored against Nari.

Two people went through from each pool into the semi-finals. Chi and Steve fought first, both utilising sharp nidan waza, quick men cuts and oji waza, but Chi managed to pull out ahead and score a place in the final. The next fight was not as quick; Ini was out of practice and Tatos was full of mince pies from Christmas! But in the end a kote cut meant Chi and Tatos would be in the final.

In a fairly give and take final Chi went 1-0 down quickly. Whilst this relieved his opponent it focused Chi and he came back to score 2 men points and win the match.

Next up was the senior completion for the san-dans. Notably absent this year was Clay whose shiny new 4th dan meant he’d be a shinpan instead.

Already running short on time the ippon shobu bouts were shortened to 1 minute. Without much time to score (and with a nice new floor to work with) the seniors had to take a much more aggressive stance and hunt for the point. There were some lovely examples of timing on display particularly nice was Natasa’s dou-nuki-men against Phil. It was hard to tell who was ahead as everyone seemed to be winning and losing in equal measure and in no particular pattern. However in the end there could only be one, and Paul and Frank were tied for points so they fought a decider (this time with no time limit). It seems Frank, at this point, had an attack of amnesia and forgot that earlier he had said he wasn’t interested in winning, as after a very close match he did just that!

In the Balloon Cup traditions were upheld and one colour dominated right from the off. After a blistering first round (Antonin alone popping 4 red balloons) the whites had decimated the reds, leaving just Clay to fight for the whole red team. He made a valiant attempt to claw back some honour for the reds but ultimately being outnumbered 10-1 mean he too was despatched. As the whites turned on each other, some tried to “honourably duel”, whilst others picked people off while they weren’t looking. Then after a while, with a bit of underhand distraction, Ini was despatched by Natasa leaving her and Tatos. She hit the target a good few times but her success in buying such strong white balloons would be her undoing and finally her balloon was popped!

Picture from left to right: Armando – Best shikake waza; Steve M – 3rd Place; Chi – 1st place and best oji waza; Tatos – 2nd place, f/s and Fusen cup; Frank – Senior Cup.

Frank – Senior Cup.

Monday 9^th Last Night of Kangeiko

After a good turn out on all the other days Monday saw a drop in numbers, which maybe be understandable as family and other commitments last to come into consideration. But saying that those who managed to come fall into the new guide lines of practise and it made a great difference compared to the visitors who looked without direction and lost in a properly run dojo. Everyone has improved over the week although it is not second nature as yet. Everyone can say that they are now practising Kendo and not just swinging a stick in the direction of another person hoping to hit them with in some fashion. As Paul pointed out on the first day Kangeiko and the meaning of a new year and in the new dojo has given me the opportunity for change.

The simple maxim of ‘Kendo starts with Rei and ends with Rei’ should not be lost, to make the primarily focus on technique and self gratification through victory rather than the possibilities for character cultivation is not the DO in Kendo it is just purely a sporting pursuit.

So please do not lose the or your ‘WAY’

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T08:57:00.000Z

Dear Members,

I hope everyone one had a great holiday and had time to relax and enjoy family and friends and maybe indulge and pamper yourselves. Now I am pleased to inform you that we are back in action in our new Dojo.

The later months of last year saw the old school halls knocked down and a large refurbishment start, we lost practise due to this and numbers and events dropped.

As you can see the building is now open and the time we waited and struggled has paid off by giving us a brand new dojo with a sprung floor without lines, air-conditioning and white light making the dojo bright and welcoming.

We start back on the 4^th at 7pm-9pm with the first day of Kangeiko, with the New Year and a new dojo we must all use this chance to renew our Kendo study and practice.

There will be many changes so please come with a fresh mind and take on board all the corrections that are given to you over the coming year. As always I will gave myself to you all and try to establish a foundation of traditional kendo that will set the way of others will wish to be part of or stand back in admiration.

‘’There is no smaller or great mastery than the mastery of oneself ‘’

I look forward to the challenge.

Jeff Humm

Shihan

4th Lithuanian National Championionship 22nd October 2011

2011-12-28T04:55:00.001Z

Coming very soon

Congratulations

2011-12-26T04:36:00.000Z

Belated congratulations to Clayon Stewart who passed his yondan at the British open grading on the 16th October 2011.
He is now 1 of 7 members over 3rd dan at Hizen dojo!

British Open Taikai 15th October 2011

2011-12-26T04:26:00.002Z

Coming very soon

Frank Bowden Memorial Taikai 10th September 2011

2011-12-23T19:23:00.000Z

The morning started with a brave attack on the one way systems of Birmingham (helped by a taxi driver who seemed to be making up the directions as he went along). Eventually we all met at the hall in Birmingham for The Frank Bowden Memorial Taikai, a team (5 people) event.

Our teams were:
Hizen A: Nick Davey, Jeff Martin, Clayon Stewart, Phil Wilson and Satoshi Miyamura.
Hizen B: Chi Fung, Steve McDonald, Nari Arjan, myself and "Frank" Fai Fung.

In what, I am informed, is something of a tradition, the normal pool system was eschewed for a new spangly made up one. The result was 4 pools of four grouped into 2 shiai-jo. Points were awarded for wins and ippon and each shiai-jo of 2 pools competed together on points and the top 4 teams on each shiai-jo went through to the next round.
Hmmmm…

Our (Hizen B) first match was against an aggressive Tora team. Chi and Steve came out very strongly in their fights however, with the opponents keen to block and come into tsuba-zeriai it was hard to clinch a point. Nari came out third and having noticed that they were blocking a lot he employed ni-dan waza and scored a lovely kote-dou. I was up next and again struggled to find a point against an opponent keen to stay close. In our taisho slot was Frank who now needed a 2 point win, but once again was tied up close and then injured when his wrist was twisted in a strange tsuba-zeriai tangle.

Without anyone to kiss Franks wrist better (Nari's expert ministrations notwithstanding) he just had to get on with it.
Our next match was a Welsh team, once again our team looked controlling but seemed to struggle to get the points and overall was another close loss.

We had one fight left against UCL and despite thinking that we'd be eliminated (due to losing 2 out of 3 matches) we decided to pull ourselves together and make a good fight of it.
So with one last hurrah we put in a 10 point victory over UCL. Frank even cameoed some Jodan for one point (citing his painful right wrist and not show-boating as the reason).

In the mean time on the other court Hizen A had dominated all their matches and sailed through the "pool" phase without an issue.

With the pools over we went to see the eliminations and to our surprise Hizen B were through (due to the point system our 10 ippons against UCL had pushed us back up the board). Even more to our surprise our next match was against Hizen A. It was clear that being from the same club meant very little in this fight. All the matches were close, never separated by more than a point.
Unfortunately (for Hizen B) Hizen A had the better of us in the end taking the match 3-2

So now Hizen A were through to the semi-finals against Taiseidokai (Glasgow). In a match of contrasting styles ,the more aggressive and frenetic Taiseidokai against a more measured Hizen team, both struggled to get a decisive advantage. In the end both teams wins, losses and draws being equal as well as their points it meant that it would be a representative match.
So, considering the role of the representative, Satoshi picked Clay to fight against D J Henderson. It was a long fight and it was clear that Clay's opponent was getting tired.
However, in a strange reversal of the norm Clay was disarmed, fortunately the boxing instincts kicked in as he sidestepped a few cuts.
After resuming the fight he quickly tried to take back the initiative and landed a very crisp kote-men but as he went through his opponent floored him so the point was scored. Peculiarly Henderson seemed in some pain after this (it later transpired he'd injured his foot somehow).
Sensing his opponent wasn't moving much, Clay kept up the offensive but couldn't seem to convince the shinpan and in the end a debana kote was given against him.

So congratulations to Hizen A for getting 3rd place overall!!

(PS - If anyone has any pictures can they send me a couple for this post as I can't find any!!)

Hizen Challenge Taikai 3rd September 2011

2011-09-11T21:07:00.003+01:00

“It’s about ten times harder than it looked in the videos.” That was the opinion of James Ogle, the eventual winner of the Hizen Challenge Taikai, on the four endurance challenges that give the event its name.

Taking place on 3 September, the event saw kendoka from around Britain and Europe compete for a £500 first prize, with runners up taking home £250 and £125.

The Hizen challenge is unique in featuring four endurance challenges before the pool rounds begin. The event began with two minutes of haya suburi, with David Parkes of Oxford University managing 175 within the time limit. In the last group of competitors to take the challenge, James Ogle of Denshinkan took the lead with 183.The second challenge involved men and hiki men attacks against a practice dummy. Chi Leung Fung and Tatos Shahbazian of Hizen came joint first in this round, managing 41 in two minutes.

The third round involved a seemingly straightforward sequence of kote, dou and men strikes, with competitors having to cover a set distance then return to their start position after each cut. By this point though, competitors were starting to get tired, often losing points by failing to reach their mark. Chi made 31 cuts in what competitors agreed was the hardest of the four events.

Finally, competitors were required to make men and hiki men cuts before turning to attack a second target. Tiredness and dizziness were both the enemies here. James Ogle made 51 attacks within the time limit, but was beaten by by Barnaby Ellis from Gloucester, who scored 52 in a much-cheered final push.

After the challenge rounds the lowest scoring player was eliminated and the pool matches began. There was some quality kendo on display, with Viktorija Plaksijenko of Trijega KenYuKai scoring a clean kote nuki men, and Haruka Kina of Hizen performing some nicely timed attacks that won her the fighting spirit prize.

In the first semi final Chi Leung Fung took James Ogle to a long encho, with James going through a laundry list of techniques, including makiotoshi men and katate tsuki, without managing to break Chi’s concentration or kamae. James eventually won with debanna kote in the ninth minute of the match.

The second semi final saw Mindaugas Sakalauskas of Trijega KenYuKai take an early lead against Maarten De Meulder of Queen Mary University with a sharply performed suriage kote. He went on to win the match two-nil with a men cut.

The final was a 15-minute epic, with James and Mindaugas proving evenly matched in technique and stamina. James managed one flag for kote early on, but there was no score after five minutes, and sudden-death encho began. Both players made strong attacks, but neither managed to find a gap in the other’s defences. Eventually, James managed to stay in the fight slightly longer after an exchange of cuts, catching Mindaugas off guard with a men cut.

Jeff Humm sensei presented the specially designed trophy, modelled on an antique tsuba, and thanked the referees and helpers who’d made the day run so smoothly. He also said he was pleased with the quality of kendo on display, and hoped to welcome many of the competitors back next year.

Report by Philip Wilson

Hizen Summer Taikai 7th August 2011

2011-08-29T06:34:00.009+01:00

A familiar format greeted us this year with a nidan and under mixed team competition and a sandan individual’s cup. However, there was some new swag up for grabs, newly made medals in the shape of the Hizen mon as an antique tsuba.

Slowed slightly by the building works that have been taking place at the hall eventually 6 teams of 3 were selected randomly, the san-dans (and Ini) were ready to shinpan, the new scoreboard was setup and it was time to get the competition under way.

This was the first shiai experience for quite a lot of people in the junior competition, yet the kendo was very positive, spirited and attacking, showing that even without lots of shiai experience doing basic cuts positively is very effective.

So with the dust settled the results were as follows:

1^st place - Tatos Shahbazian, Narendra Arjan and Scott Yeoh
2^nd place - Chi Leung Fung, Andy O’Connor and Armando Alemdar
3^rd place - David Jordan, Antoine Bisch and May
Shikake Waza - Chi Leung Fung
Oji Waza - Ndu Wodu
Fighting Spirit - Doug Punch

This year 8 san-dans took part in the Senior Cup. As usual the format was a round-robin, ippon shobu competition, where the person with most points overall wins (no points for a draw or a loss and no 2^nd or 3^rd place). As was the case at the Winter Taikai the competition was very close, with no one person seeming to dominate.

For the avid pub-kendoka a few trademark techniques were available to see, namely Paul’s harai-men, Frank’s kaeshi-do and even a little cameo from Jeff’s gyaku jodan.

But in the end there can only be one, and this year the result was:

Senior Cup - Fai “Frank” Fung

So with the fighting finished that left the AGM and then it was off down to the watering hole to discuss the day’s events.

A New Sandan (June 2011)

2011-08-29T06:09:00.003+01:00

Congratulations to Stewart Daniels who passed his sandan grading in Vancouver.
Stewart coaxes his counterpart into cutting kote allowing him to perform nuki-men, even after a long morning travelling on a ferry to get to the dojo.
He reports that he is relieved to have the grading behind him and is looking forward to starting the journey as a sandan in pursuit of yondan.

Watchet Grading 15th May 2011

2011-08-29T04:46:00.005+01:00

Bucking no trends at all, when called upon to wake up early on a Sunday it was the student who was last down to breakfast, finding the rather sizeable Hizen contingent waiting downstairs for breakfast. One hearty, full English later (possibly not such a good idea in hindsight) and we were off to the grading.

The Kendo started with a short warm-up and a recap of the key points from the seminar the day before. After that the grading was set up in another room with the main room being available for people to stay warm and practice.
As usual the camaraderie and support between the Hizen group made the experience a much more enjoyable one, also showing off the attention to detail that Humm-sensei puts into teaching as Hizen were always quick to have armour on and generally the first ones ready.

So congratulations to:
Antoine Bisch, Emma Hynes, Tatos Shahbazian and Pierre Toureau for passing shodan,
and also to Chi Leung Fung for passing nidan.

National Kata Seminar and Taikai 26-7th March 2011

2011-08-29T04:44:00.002+01:00

Coming Soon.

Army Invitational Taikai 20th March 2011

2011-08-29T04:43:00.002+01:00

Coming Soon.

Hizen Kangeiko 4th-9th January 2011

2011-08-29T02:51:00.004+01:00

Coming Soon.

More Apologies!!

2011-08-26T04:02:00.002+01:00

Sorry it's taken forever to update the blog!

I'm still getting some info and finishing up some of the other reports. So to keep the chronology for now there will be some reports that will be "Coming Soon" that I'll edit and update as soon as they are ready.

Hizen Winter Taikai 19th December 2010

2011-05-10T17:02:00.001+01:00

It had been snowing. A lot. As such, London's transport system downgraded itself from 'maybe if you're lucky' to 'just no', meaning that Hizen's winter taikai was more sparsely attended than usual. Those who did make it got a good day's kendo though, with a pools system ensuring that everyone got several fights.

It was a good day for some of Hizen's newer members, with several players putting in positive performances despite never having worn armour before. Sadiq in particular took a much more experienced opponent to a long encho, and in doing so won himself the fighting spirit prize.

In the main though, experience won through, with Ini and Emma fighting their way to the final, leaving Tatos and Dillon in joint third place. In a closely fought final, Emma's precise timing and neatly performed ojiwaza failed to convince the judges, and Ini's more attacking style took the match.

In the sandan cup, Jeff Martin proved the dark horse. Forced by injury to take an unconventional kamae, he managed to wrongfoot several of his opponents. "He can't cut kote from that angle", said one competitor, before stepping into the shiaijo and loosing to a katate kote from gyaku jodan. Which isn't something you see every day. Jeff also scored a men against Paul Gray, but that was Paul's only loss, and with four wins he took home the trophy for the next six months.

The most coveted prize of the day is always the fuusen cup - an actual cup, which the winner is duty bound to drink from in the pub. Each competitor had a balloon tied to their men, and when the bashing was done, Ini was the last man standing. Once the prizes had been awarded, many of the competitors headed to the pub to continue the contest by other means.

Report: Phil Wilson

Out on the town

2010-09-30T23:51:00.001+01:00

Last Friday 20 Hizen members descended on Chalk farm to partake in the celebrated Ice cream establishment called Marine. Not only does it offer the best ice cream in London the food is of the same level.
There was no reason apart from just getting together to have a chat and relax, by 10pm everyone one was ready from the main event…

some had eyes bigger than their bellies but nothing was left

and you could have mistaken the quietness for a long period of mokusou in the dojo.
Once the bowls had been licked some left, leaving those who could not move because of the amount they had eaten, or those that didn't want to go home staying to chat over a few more beers whilst planning the next event.
A great night out and thanks to Natasha for arranging it.

2010 Summer Taikai

2010-09-28T15:43:00.000+01:00

Whup-whup-whup….
Not the sound of us hitting each other with shinai. But as we were warming up on a hot Saturday morning for the annual Hizen Team's Taikai (competition), the back door of the dojo was filled with the whup-whup-whup sound of a helicopter landing in the car park. Paramedics then ran into the dojo. Fortunately, this was not due to someone injuring themself before the start of the competition. Rather, it was, we think, a PR exercise with the paramedics heading through to the front of the building where a colourful street carnival was taking place. Still, it made for an unusual start to the taikai!
Distractions aside, the shiai jo was taped up and teams drawn. In previous years, kendoka of sandan+ level were excluded from the team taikai (fighting in a separate 'senior plate' section later in the day), but the success of the Hizen club over the last couple of year's has meant that a substantial proportion of members have now reached sandan. The practical effect of which was to reduce the number of eligible participants in the taikai - so to ensure enough teams could be formed each was allocated a sandan player for the first time this year.
Matches started around 11am with teams of three fighting. Each match was three minutes in duration and each team was to fight all the others, so several hours of kendo lay ahead of us. Senior grades and those sandan not allocated to teams were to act as shimpan.
The team fights were numerous and it was quite hard to follow which teams were doing better than others or which kendoka. And there were too many matches to describe each in detail. I know that the final must have been close, as a member of my own team assured me that we had it 'in the bag' on match wins about 20 minutes from the end, but the ultimate winners - Team A (Narendra Arjan, Adam Tennent and Dillon Lin) creapt up on us and finally won on points in the final few minutes…. Team B (Paul Gray, Steve McDonald and Endre Szvetnik) came second and Team C (Clayon Stewart, Jo Jaehyeok and Minaxi Arjan) came third.
Fighting Spirit was won by Ruth Heams. Her partner Steve had given me special permission to quote "beat her" in our match but after my first point she'd fought back with a splendid debanna kote - and this grit and excellent timing was on show in several other matches as well - with at least one other sandan receiving a similar stroke. When Humm sensei later announced the choice, it was a popular one with participants.

The came the Senior Plate. Participants this included Phil Wilson, Clayon Stewart, Paul Gray, Jeff Martin, Lewis Guneratne, Adam Tennent and Julian Biddulph There was a notable number of draws in the sandan taikai but ultimately the winner of the two previous competitions also prevailed this year - Phil Wilson will have to take the trophy to the engravers again.

Humm sensei presented the prizes at the end of the afternoon and commented that while the basic level of kendo in the club is improving, many individuals would have done better if they could focus more on the importance of ippon. The number of draws in the Senior Plate was illustrative of this need to create a decisive win.

Following the taikai, the club held it’s Annual General Meeting.

Report: Paul Grey Photos: Jeff Martin

Japan Matsuri 2010

2010-09-26T16:52:00.000+01:00

Last year’s Japan Matsuri had such a huge turn out that the event organisers decided to do it again this year. Hizen along with Wakaba were once again invited to give demonstrations of kendo to the visiting public. This year I was pleasantly surprised to find that the martial arts stage had moved to a central location within Spitalfields Market as last year it was in a somewhat peripheral corner not even under the protection of the arcades. Lucky it didn’t rain last year with this year’s weather being fine too. I arrived during the closing minutes of the preceding demonstration of Shorin-ji Kempo. The audience was large and packed and several children sat around the perimeter of the stage clearly having a great time.
As Hizen’s demonstration team began to appear the crowd started to get audibly excited. Something about the sight of kendo armor captures the public imagination in a very visceral way. One mother sitting next to me exclaimed to her young children, “Look, the samurai are coming!” Eight members of Hizen were to give the armoured practice demonstration. This was about all the small stage could take. Humm-sensei had the microphone to explain what the audience was about to see. Jeff Martin was also at the end of the stage, bokuto tucked away next to him, standing by for the kata demonstration.
Satoshi Miyamura led the group in the opening rei and mokuso. The team bowed to the audience then proceeded to put their armour on while Humm-sensei started explaining some basic points about kendo that in this martial art everyone practices together. Young and old, men and women, beginners and seniors can all practice together with no differentiation. First came the demonstrations of the four targets in kendo with mawarigeiko executions of men, kote, dou and tsuki strikes.

This was followed by short bouts of kirikaeshi and kakarigeiko so the audience gets a flavour of what a typical kihon practice would be like. To once again emphasize the point that men and women can practice together, Jeff asked Steve and Ruth Macdonald to spar with each other as well as for another jigeiko between Nari and Minaxi Arjan. Satoshi and Clayon Stewart showed a more focused senior’s jigeiko in order to demonstration to the audience that kendo is not always seemingly chaos.
Humm-sensei then put the mic down in order to give a demonstration, together with Jeff Martin, of a selection of kendo-no kata. Before Satoshi lead the closing rei, Humm-sensei briefly picked up the mic again to explain to the audience that they were about to see a more rigorous application of the kata forms, first to be performed slowly, then in a more intense manner. This was going to be, I believe, the first public demonstration of Humm-sensei’s tachi-ai interpretation of the kendo-no kata. Influenced by the continuous kata found in Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto-Ryu, this exercise links together kendo’s seven tachi forms into a single long flowing kata. This is achieved by re-introducing cuts and kamae from classical kenjutsu not readily seen in modern kendo in between the main body of each kata. It is meant as a fun and exciting way to give kendo-no kata a rigorous combative feel (and you might get to see it at the next Kata Seminar *wink *wink).This was perhaps the one bit of the demonstration that resembled what the general public tends to think kendo is supposed to look like, aside from the super cool looking armour of course.

Japan Matsuri 2010 Demonstration Team:
Jeff Humm
Satoshi Miyamura
Clayon Stewart
Paul Gray
Jeff Martin
Steve Macdonald
Ruth Macdonald
Nari Arjan
Minaxi Arjan
Chi Fung

Report & photos Dillion Lin

London Godou Keiko

2010-09-26T15:28:00.000+01:00

On the 17th June the Dojo held an open practise for all central London clubs four out of the eight clubs were present and there were around 45 kendoka enjoying there kendo.

Humm sensei opened the practice by welcome the guest to our dojo and explaining that the purpose of the inviting everyone was to take this opportunity to enjoy one of the great advantages of being a BKA member and exercising our right to practise at any dojo. With London having eight dojo’s in less than 15mins of each other we often don’t visit each other or inform our students that this is possible and excepted within the practise of kendo.

The class started with 15 minutes of Kirikaiashi followed by another 15mins of light uchikomi to warm up then straight in free practise in the marigeiko format. About an hour into the keiko Humm sensei stop the practise to and inform everyone that the free practice had changed its content and that we should all be careful not to lose focus of the aim of the evening meeting and that now that we had become tried we should concentrate on keeping good posture and basic skills at a high level and this would help the next time we found ourselves at this point our body would remember these actions.

The group carried on for another 15 minutes with this in mind we then ended with a few rounds of Kirikaiashi. Everyone had a good (well this was the talk in the pub a while later) and Humm sensei said that he would arrange for another practise in the near furture.

We would like to thank all those who attended and look forward to seeing more members from all the dojo’s

Apologies

2010-09-26T15:24:00.000+01:00

Sorry that the blog has not been kept up to date the last few months, this is due to many things which I shall not bore you all with but I hope to bring it up to date over the next week or two.

Kata Seminar 2010

2010-04-14T13:52:00.000+01:00

Reason, reaction, result...
This was the theme of the second Kendo Kata seminar run at Hizen dojo.

Saturday, to be fair, the National Kata Taikai took up the bulk of the time, so the practice was limited to a few hours prior to the actual competition. But for anyone whose kata was in any way shakey, these hours were an intense recap.
As I mentioned - the overall theme of the seminar was to explore why you move in kata. What is the reason for you to cut? What is the reaction this creates? And what is the ultimate result. This has obvious and direct links back to improving you shiai kendo because it's all about distance, control and seme.
Why, for example, does uchidachi make the first cut on ipponmai? What's the psychological trigger that gives uchidachi the impetus to try for a kote in nihonmai or tsuki in ropponmai? What should you be thinking when you look death in the face as shidachi's sword wavers between your eyes on sanbonmai? Why doesn't he kill you?

And then there were the practical issues. If you owned a sword that historically probably cost you as much as a modern car - would you run the edge up the blade and hit the tsuba - potentially either blunting or chipping the blade - as you are instructed to do in the third kodachi form? And how would the do cut actually disembowel someone in nanahonmai?

Do you cut, slash, slice, place, or just hold the blade in position to wrap around your opponents abdomen as they step on to it? How would that actually work - with a real person, a real body?

Sunday
A long and physically hard day, Yes, kata can make you sweat.
The group was divided - those who could not yet do 1-5 focussed on these. Shodan and Nidan attendees focussed on the kodachi forms - something that has caused several upsets at recent gradings for Sandan, when participants have been asked to do these forms and not been able. And those who were sandan plus started with a session aimed at refining their kodachi techniques and then moved on to other things.

Midday, John Howell sensei gave a lecture on the history of kendo, explaining how it had survived through the Meiiji Restoration and early modern period in Japan - when the sword arts had appeared impossibly outdated and as fashionable as flairs, almost dieing out due to the lack of participants. And then again, the crisis that followed WW2, when sensei had buried their armour to hide it from the occupying powers and the tenuous link that connects us to medeaval Japan was almost broken forever. The role of the kata forms in the survival of kendo - and their necessity in preserving its authenticity, were key themes of Howell sensei's talk.
And then back to practice. But practice with a difference as Humm sensei demonstrated a selection of koryu techniches (again, focussing on the use of the kodachi). These were noticeably more 'violent' than the three kodachi forms incorporated in our current syllabus, but gave you real pause for thought when considering the real utility of a short sword. It was a fascinating show - which really helped inform our understanding of the use of the kodachi and of the link between
modern kendo kata and of its bloody origins.

In addition, a final session gave students some tools for visualizing a real fight with real, full length swords - again based on the kata forms. Humm sensei showed a version of the kata 'sewn together' and performed at speed and with deadly intent. Suddenly, the kata came much more to life. Gone was the laborious reiho - bow, draw, three steps in, cut, zanshi, chudan, kamai-otuku and five steps back routine which is ground into us for grading purposes. Now there was fluidity, force and real fear. All seven long sword forms were performed as a single integrated unit with each cut followed by the next so that the entire set looked like a real exchange of blows between two combatants - with give and take, parry and riposte, attack and defence following on from each other. Given the chance to try this out ourselves, we gradually became more confident with the basic choreography of the form and added greater intent, kiai and speed to the movement, so that by the end one had an exhilarating and exhausting exchange which, if a move was missed or forgotten, posed the real risk of a crack on the head or hand or wrist from your partners bokuto. This was a thought experiment, explained Humm sensei, not an attempt to revise of change the actual kata forms, but a means to help you understand their underlying principles and their practical merit. Well, yes that's certainly true - but it's also the most fun I have had learning kata in years!
So thank you to John Howell sensei and Jeff Humm sensei for a fascinating weekend, which both polished our practical kata skills and provided us with a deeper understanding of the forms, their dynamics, their mechanisms and their meanings, as I said at the start: the reason you move the reaction this creates and the result you achieve.

The Kendo Kata Taikai 2010 was held on Saturday, March 27th, hosted by Hizen Dojo in London. The results were:
2 Dan & Under
Winners: David Jordan and Dillon LinSecond: Narendra Arjan and Chi Li FungThird: Stewart Daniels and Lewis Guneratne
3rd Dan Plus
Winner: Natasha NogicSecond: Jeff MartinThird: Adam Tennant

2010 Kata Taikai Winners (Back Row, l-r) Chi Li Fung, Narendra Arjan, Adam Tennant, Natasa Nogic, Jeff Martin, Stewart Daniels, Lewis Guneratne (Front Row seated l-r) David Jordan, Dillon Lin Natasa Nogic presented with the Senior Plate, by John Howell sensei, Nandan Kyoshi and Jeff Humm sensei, Nandan Renshi

Report Paul Gray
Photos Jeff Martin

Lithuania March 2010

2010-03-18T12:59:00.000Z

Last weekend I return to Lithuania to help train the selected team members for the forth coming European Kendo Championships in Hungary and the growing numbers of new students now finding Kendo in there country.

I have been visiting Lithuania now for just over five years and each time I return I’m meeting with more people and even keener face wishing to learn Kendo.

This time was no exception, each practise was very well attended the now senior members (only Nidan) were keen to show that they had been working hard teaching the others with the little experience they have and by sticking to the basics they have done very well indeed.

If they carry on with this level of improvement it will not be long before they will show as much skill as the enthusiasm which they approach there daily practise.
There also seems to be a trend that many Lithuania ladies are coming to join the newly opened Dojo in the Capitals University and there new target is to entry a female team into next years European Championships in Poland. I’m sure they will be able to do so.

On Saturday morning the day started with a 2hour practise for the National Team members and three ladies who will attend the individuals this year. Covered were various points to help them with taking part in the taikai and for each individual’s personal preparation. We then change dojo were the other members join us, this time I covered the basics and the introduced some waza to the practise for the first time.

Sunday was spent covering Kendo no Kata and to my surprise all present were able to practise the first five forms without problems. So I gave a lecture on the origins of the forms and other relevant information on the practice and its benefits to everyone Kendo in general.

I feel that everone enjoyed the weekend and it was a good feeling to teach a group of keen and interested people.

Report: J. Humm

Photo: LT.Kendo & J.Humm

Way of the Samurai 3

2010-03-16T22:50:00.000Z

Later this month sees the European release of the video game "Way of the Samurai 3". Having been available in Japan for sometime now it's finally making it to our shores.As part of the publicity surrounding its release Hizen dojo was asked to give some of the Journalist covering the launch a taste of what real life combat might be like compared to the games virtual combat.The day started with an introduction from Jeff Humm Sensei to the some of the history and philosophy of kendo. This included a promise to experience the four sickness of kendo, fear, doubt, surprise and confusion.With such a limited amount of time a so much ground to cover we started taking people through their first steps.

How to stand, how to hold the shinai. Soon we had them all moving around the dojo making basic cuts. Whilst Humm Sensei continued to give instruction to the participants I put on my armor and took my place receiving cuts from the students.

Once we're reasonably happy everyone is striking with some style and commitment. It's time to get everyone in armor and we repeat the exercise.For everyone who does kendo wearing armor for the first time is tough lesson.

What seemed merely hard before now seems impossible. So it's important for the student to be focused again on the most basic points and for the teachers not allow the student to dwell on the discomforts and act as the had before the armor was worn. With only an hour or so to get used to holding the shinai. Holding on to the basics of posture and footwork is not easy. The signs of the four sicknesses of kendo are showing.Now it's time to drive the lesson home. The visitors are getting tired and we have one last step to go through before lunch. It's free practice time. It's not a fair fight but it's all part of the experience. What is it like to stand up in-front off someone and be totally out of your depth. In-spite of being scared, doubting your ability being shocked by the speed and intensty of a full on attack and having no idea how to respond, can you maintain your composure and hang on to the little training you've had and make an honest attempt to meet your opponents attack head on.

We're not just to play with them, you try and do your best kendo and show by example how they should be practicing. You can't just go all out as this would be over welling and make them defensive. You give them opportunities and take them away again. You try to encourage your opponent to do their best to push themselves a bit further to do something more than they thought they could and hopefully have some fun doing it.

Then comes my turn. Before we break for lunch we let the visitor sit and rest and watch as I go through the same process and demonstrate how I practice with my teacher,

how I try to meet that challenge head on. I was gratified that one of the visitors commented afterwards that he it was impressed to see me giving it my all despite being out gunned by my teacher.The return from lunch sees us approaching things from a different direction.

We start by giving a demonstration of the first seven forms of the kendo kata, while Humm Sensei explains the intention behind each one. This is followed by an explanation of the how the target areas which are used in modern kendo evolved from the early targets which exploit weaknesses in armor and anatomical vulnerabilities, rather than encouraging spirited attacks in a safe manner as we do in kendo itself.Then everyone takes up boken and we pair up to practice cutting to various target areas of the body. We then add to this the various countering parries to produce a paired exercise which both partners are linking together a series of cuts and responses. Whilst not as physically demanding as the mornings practice,

the concentration required to get the correct parry to match the correct cut without getting struck with a wooden sword is still demanding.We finish up by demonstrating a more elaborate series of cuts and parries and some older forms of kendo kata. Whilst not part of our normal kendo practice these represent a link to a time when people practiced not to develop their bodies and character, as we do today, but to defend them selves in life and death combat.At the end of the day there's a feeling that it's been a job well done. We have time to answer some more questions as people around us are talking into camera lenses and taking photos.

Inviting people to join is in this way does take us out of our usual routine and we have to think carefully about how we represent ourselves and our art and how we treat people who are not as committed to what we are doing. But we feel that the day was enjoyed be those involved and where gratified by what seemed like a genuine desire to enter into the spirit of what we do.Quite how what we did will emerge into the outside public eye, I have no idea. We where there to provide some background to the video game so it's not about us and as with any of these types of things the final product only represents a small part of the work that went into it. But if we find anything interesting will point it out.

Links to video coverage

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4evrVIRhaY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jufhqKZVVgE

Report By: Jeff Martin

Photos C/O Premier PR

Tokyo City Promotion

2010-02-08T16:36:00.000Z

Six members and I give six demonstrations over two days at the Tokyo city promotion at the Queen Elizabeth II conference centre on the 30th & 1st January. Around six thousand people attended of two days. Our demonstrations draw the biggest audiences each time.

The demonstration was in three sections starting with present day Kendo. Showing the main cutting target then moving on to various waza and practice drills finishing with Keiko and a small Shiai for one point. Satoshi & Alex on the first day and Alex and Jeff on the second.

Then Kendo no kata was explained and the first five forms were shown, this was performed by Yuki and Paul.

The final part of the demonstration was given by Jeff & Natasha, this was made up of some Ryu ha forms and a tachi-ai of the first seven forms of the kendo no kata.

Both days were long and very tiring and in between demonstrations the team spent its time back stage resting and waiting for the next set.

The event went well and the organisers gave a donation to the Hizen Foundation for its member’s effort on the day to promote Japanese culture.

Photos by Jeff, Chi and Armando.

Hizen Winter Taikai 10th Jan

2010-01-14T12:02:00.000Z

This year’s taikai fell after our week long Kangeiko and the coldest Snap since 1983. Even so 30 members turned up for the day’s fun and games.
As in previous years the day is broken into three taikai, beginners to second dan, third day and what we call the Fusen cup. (the balloon cup)
This year I had a very bad cold so it gave chance for the seniors in the dojo to run and control the day and let me sit back and watch on the side lines.

The first taikai was well contested and the level of kendo was high which aloud the san-dan group to have some good refereeing opportunities during the day. There were many close matches and this set the bar high for the senior cup which would follow.
Apart from the normal first second and third place prizes frighting spirit best Oji waza and shikake waza are also given to encourage the use of a wider range of skills.

The results were;

1st; Julian Biddulph

2nd; Ini Udofah

3rd; Nari Arjan

Fighting spirit award; Steve McDonald

Best Oji waza award; Nari Arjan

Best shikake waza award; Lewis Guneratne

The Senior Cup is for the San-dan of the dojo which at present are 12. The taikai is an ippon sho-bu which helps focus the mind and body to put every thing into your attacks it is also a formatted so that everyone fights everyone the person with the most wins is the outright winner.

The refereeing was undertaken by the Yon / Go-dan’s of the dojo, with a strong and friendly rivalry the matches were strongly contested as each member want to be the winner and this showed in the crispness of the cuts made and scored finally the winner was proclaimed. There is own one prize for this taikai
This year it was won by Phil Wilson.

The last taikai well one should say free for all and probably the one if the members were to be truthful enjoy the most was the Fusen Cup.

All those present are spit into two groups and ever a red or white balloon is secured to the Men. Then on a whistle command they attach to opposite colour until only one colour is left and then turn on each other until only one person is left with there balloon intact.
This year it was won by Peter Tornkvist.

After the prizes were given many found there way to the local Pub where the talk started about what could and should have happen or what might and will happen at the next time the event is held.

A good day I think was had by all and I’m sorry to say I could not end the day with out giving my view of what needed to be done… well I had sit all just watching.

Report: J.Humm

Photo's: J. Martin

Kangeiko 2010

2010-01-14T11:35:00.000Z

Day 1, 4 January 2010

For many of us this is our first meeting of 2010. After a few minutes milling around and talking about who’s seen Avatar, we line up and begin with the customary nip of sake, toasting the new year. Jeff Sensei explains that he wants us all to focus on three ‘S’s: speed, sharpness and spirit. With several days of kangeiko ahead, sensei also suggests choosing a simple, achievable goal for our own kendo, keeping mindful of how we progress during the week.My own goal is to hold the shinai more lightly and flexibly, and increase the amount of work I do with my feet. I hope this will lead to a flexible, natural mind, enabling me to switch easily between cuts, and between attack and defence.After running a few laps of the dojo and warming up, it’s straight into armour for practice focussed on small, relaxed cutting. We start with men cuts, then men combined with hiki waza, and build up to a sequence of men, hiki men, men nuki do.After kihon and waza practice, we have ji-geiko. Sensei suggests we try both vibrant, attacking kendo, and also try inviting the opponent to attack, in order to carry out oji waza.

Day 2, 5 January 2010

The first few snowflakes start to fall as I walk to the dojo. Inside it’s pleasantly warm, and we’re joined by visitors from Oxford and Nenriki, including Mr. Eurokendo himself, Young Park.Our format is the same as the previous day, with a vigorous warm up and kihon session, with the emphasis on moving sharply and relaxedly from one cut to the next, without compromising the footwork. We finish with 40 minutes of ji-geiko.There’s a good covering of snow as we leave the dojo. I don’t envy our guests from Oxford their journey home.

Day 3, 6 January 2010

The snow has pretty much carried on falling, but despite some of the worst weather for years, 26 people make it to the dojo, and we’re pleased to welcome back our guests from Nenriki.The format is slightly different tonight, after warm up and suburi. We practise smaller cuts, in pairs, with one person holding the shinai across their partner’s arms at shoulder height to prevent an over-large swing. Without armour we do men and kote cuts, using the partner’s shinai as a target, building up to add more movement, and more variation to the timing. We also cut one handed with an emphasis on using the wrists and elbows, not the shoulder.We repeat the drill of small men and kote strikes, this time in bogu, building up to a kind of uchikomi, but with a few seconds between each cut to build tension and vary the distance. Sensei emphasises the importance of sharp, relaxed cutting, and says the tension in the body should only be present as the cut lands. For the zanshin, we have to be relaxed again.After a few rounds of ji-geiko we finish slightly early, to give everyone a chance of getting home in the bad weather.

Day 4, 7 January 2010

Another packed session, and we’re again delighted to have guests, including old friends from Wakaba and Japan. After warm up and suburi, we practise cuts across the width of the dojo with continuous kiai, building up to three cuts across the dojo in one breath. The emphasis is on relaxed movement and strong spirit. Then it’s into armour for kirikaeshi, men cuts and a sequence of hiki waza. After half an hour of this, the seniors line up and practise ji-geiko with the lower grades.Perhaps sensing that people are starting to flag after four days of training, Jeff Sensei asks us to concentrate on making each cut better than the last, and to return tomorrow determined to do our best kendo.

Day 5, 8 January 2010

With the worst of the snow gone, 42 people make it to our final day of kangeiko. We start with a modified form of suburi, with fumikomi and a few steps forwards after the cut, then back to the starting position in chudan. Sensei asks us to make sure our posture is good to allow us to change direction quickly, and I try to picture the controlled movements of a dancer.After our standard kihon drills we practise a series of oji waza against men and kote, and then some more unusual counter techniques, like do uchiotoshi men.The final ji-geiko gives us the chance to put into practice what we’ve learned. As we close with a final cup of sake, Jeff Sensei stresses the importance of continually trying to improve your kendo, not simply going through the motions. I’ve been aware this week of how small changes in posture and kamae can help you move in a more relaxed fashion, which will hopefully allow me to perform a greater range of techniques.

This was the first year our kangeiko has been advertised to other dojos, and it's been a pleasure to do kendo with new people and see friends from other clubs. We hope even more people will join us next year.

Report: Phil Wilson
Photos:Dojo

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2010-01-14T11:27:00.000Z

Sorry for the late posting but we wish everyone a good new year and hope the year of the Tiger brings everyone in the dojo its strengh and wisdom. By the way Jeff Sensei was born in this year.

Hizen Summer Taikai 15th August 2009

2009-08-17T08:43:00.001+01:00

This years Hizen Summer Taikai was well attended with over 40 members present.
After spending a few minutes preparing the hall, the draw for the mixed teams was ready to start. The format of the taikai is that all members that have a DAN grade are given a one point handicap and those members of SAN dan and above referee.

Three names are picked randomly and the order they are selected is the fighting order for the team. The teams are then put in pools with the winners going through into a knock-out.
This year the level of Kendo had improved and there were some very good points scored and a wide range of waza used. After three hours of action packed, high tension kendo the results are as follows:

1st place
Julian Biddulph
Mendogas Sakalauska
Chi Fung

2nd place
Hitesh Ajran
Dillon Lin
Kyeong Cha

3rd place
Natasa Nogic
Toufik Zemri
Victoria Plaksijenko

Best Shikake waza: Minaxi Ajran
Best Oji waza: Natasa Nogic
Fighting spirit: Victoria Plaksijenko

Humm Sensei oversaw the refereeing and taikai, giving advice to the senior members of the dojo and helping them improve there skills.

Following this taikai the bi-yearly senior cup was next. This year 8 of the 12 SAN dans in the dojo took part in a round robin taikai. The Yondan and Godan members refereed the matches.

The bouts are Ippon shobu so the tension is high and the desire to be the best was showing in all the faces of the members. The support was great from the juniors, which pushed the seniors to show some great kendo after a long and close taikai
Phil Wilson was the winner.

The day was ended with an hour of free practice which helped a few people resolve some points and this followed the dojos annual general meeting and dinner.
It was a fine and full day where everyone seemed to enjoy the taikai with friendly relaxed atmosphere.

Report by Somu

Photos by Sayeed Shaikh

Chiba Sensei Seminar & BKA National Taikai & Grading 3-5th July 2009

2009-07-06T21:23:00.002+01:00

Last weekend was a very full one for some members of the dojo. Starting on Friday, around ten members and myself went down to Brighton to attend: firstly a seminar lead by Chiba sensei 8th Dan Hanshi (3 times all Japan champion) and then the BKA National taikai followed by a grading.

Around sixty people attended both days of the seminar with all the leading British 7th Dans also in attendance; the event was full to the brim. Chiba sensei in his open and frank manner conducted the seminar with a mastery that can only come from this level of teacher. From beginner to the most advance present each and everyone gained new information and confirmation from the content of both days. All the Hizen members worked hard and seemed to catch the eye of Chiba sensei, positive comments on everyone’s understanding of the points he was showing. This shows again that the current training plan is on the right track. Special commendation was given to N. Nogic from Chiba sensei during the seminar.

Everything from basic cutting action to advanced waza training was covered over the two full days of the seminar and practising 6 hours each day started to take effect and it was evident the improvement of all those present.

Each day ended with Chiba sensei and the British higher ranks taking part in an motodachi keiko with the members.

Sunday, the last day, was a day of stress, pressure and relief - The BKA National Taikai and grading.
Dojo members carried on the good form from the two previous days but slowly knock each other out of the taikai and becoming a typical sight was the battle between Paul Gray and Jeff Martin. These two gentlemen who seem to be drawn against each other at every event had their now usual battle.

The ladies event was the same but the final outcome was much better with Alex Burch winning this year’s Ladies National Championship.

The final event of the day was the grading. This too was not without its twists and turns with Nari Arjan passing Shodan, Steve McDonald passing Nidan and Phil Wilson passing Sandan.
In total the whole weekend was a great event and I think everyone present will be booking their place for next year.

Report by J.Humm
Photos by J.Martin & N. Arjan

BKA National Kendo-no-Kata Seminar 20-1st June 2009

2009-06-24T16:43:00.001+01:00

This year’s kata seminar took place on 20th and 21st of June and was hosted by Hizen. People from all over Europe attended a successful seminar. It was run by John Howell Sensei (Kyoshi Nanadan) and our very own Jeff Humm Sensei (Renshi Nanadan).

Day one
After the opening Rei, Howell Sensei gave us an insight as to why, in kendo, we do kata and how it can help. This was a good reminder that we are not just people waving sticks and hitting each other on the head. It was to mimic a sword and to allow us to practice safely without serious risk of injury.
We were also told of the importance of correct posture and attitude to display whilst performing kata. This was a reminder to us that it is not just about going through the motion but to also put feeling and passion into the kata, after all it was all about the Samurai and The Way of the Sword. This started off with us being instructed that one should not go through the motion for the sake of it; that posture and even breathing should show intent. We were split up into groups according to our grade levels so that we could all be taught based on our understanding. Howell and Humm sensei both went round and corrected and adjusted every single person present which everyone really appreciated.
After this Humm Sensei showed and put into action different training methods if we either had limited equipment or limited number of people to practice Kendo No Kata. For many this was thinking outside the box and also showed many how well they actually knew their kata. Again it was emphasized not to learn kata for the sake of passing a grading as it can also help individuals in their kendo as well.
Day two
After the starting rei, Humm and Howell Sensei split us into our grade groups and went through what the grading examiners look for when we attend gradings. This was for most (if not all) most enlightening as every little point made the difference between okay kata to good kata. Again, it was the attention to detail here that was very helpful. With the large number of people present it was surprising that they managed to correct so many people’s errors by giving group feedback. With lots of gradings coming up in the not too distant future it was for many an important part of the seminar.
After lunch, Howell Sensei went through in depth how kendo no kata came about and how much it can help in everyday kendo. Most kendoka find kata fairly tedious, but the insight into how so many of the techniques can be practised in kata and their applications can be an important reminder.
In the last part of the seminar, Humm sensei allowed everyone to become ‘’The Last Samurai". In a practical practise that allowed everyone to see how much kendo kata is derived from actual sword combat and that the blade is not the only deadly part. This had everyone panting and sweating but there were many smiling faces as people lived out their dream of being a samurai.

Although this part was fun and good natured the lessons learnt were serious and hit home. Kata is essential for the development of one’s kendo. We look forward to next year’s seminar which no doubt will attract more people given the enjoyable content of the weekend.

Report by Nari Arjan

Photos by Jeff Martin & Nari Arjan

Kata Taikai 21st June 2009

2009-06-24T16:11:00.002+01:00

This year’s taikai was held at our dojo at the end of the first day of the national Kata seminar. This year there were 12 pairs taking part, the level of ability was high, more so due to spending four hours before the taikai practising all the forms.
There were also a few people from a local Iaido dojo who took part which brought back the taikai to its original theme and purpose to form a link between both BU’s.

The was a lot of tension among the participates and the referees also showed a great deal of concentration as every movement was watched and carefully judged

Before the taikai started Len Bean Sensei gave a demonstration of Iai-do and a breakdown of what was happening in each technique, this was of great interest and showed that the two disciplines can work well together by using Kata as a common point of reference.

The takai was very closely run and the final wins won with very polished performances with strong feeling and good spirit.

First: Stewart Daniels and Frank Fung

Second: Gerardus Rukas and BenThar Mourad

Third: Dillon Lin and David

This taikai was followed by the Senior section in which 12 people took part (all 3rd Dan and above). Each person had to perform three forms randomly selected from all 10 forms and undertake both Uchidachi and Shidachi roles. Each bout was run in a knock-out system each adding to the enjoyment of those watching and unlike a Kendo shiai the result is not know until both rei on completing the forms. Each member watching seemed to be choosing their own favourites and support was strong and well meaning.

First: Paul Gray

Second: Jeff Martin

Third: Yukiko Miyamura

This event was good for the dojo and we were told that the club would be running it for the next few years.

Report & Photos by Nari Arjan

Bowden and Premier Taikai June 6-7th June 2009

2009-06-08T22:13:00.002+01:00

This year’s Sir Frank Bowden Taikai and Premier’s Cup took place on 6th and 7th June at Reading. Hizen entered 4 teams in the Bowden Taikai and 7 members took part in the Premier’s Cup, making us the biggest group at both events.
Over the two days Hizen members demonstrated outstanding kendo and achieved brilliant results. At the Bowden Taikai, Hizen D team (Nick Davey in Senpo, Stephen McDonald in Jiho, Clayon Stewart in Chuken, Philip Wilson in Fukusho and Satoshi Miyamura in Taisho) finished second in the tournament consisting of 21 teams, and as the Taisho of the team, Satoshi also received the Fighting Spirit award. At the Premier’s Cup, Clayon reached the quarter finals and Paul Gray climbed to the last 16 of the tournament.

It was not just our numerical dominance nor these medals or awards that marked the impact of Hizen at these tournaments. More importantly every one of us who travelled played our part, not only by individually demonstrating kendo at a high level, but we all stood together

as a group and always demonstrated strong collective spirit and discipline. We not only managed to maintain the competitive edge over opponents, but also we made so many friends through the day – it was pleasing to hear people, even our defeated opponents, coming up to congratulate us and tell us how they enjoyed the attitude and approach of our teams, and that they would like to visit our dojo and practice with us in the future.

The achievements at these competitions mark a step in the direction instigated by Jeff Humm Sensei at Hizen over recent months. It is a demonstration that our focus on fundamentals and our dojo ethics is developing technical foundation and mental strength amongst all of us.

However, this is of course only a small step in our journey. The experience of testing our kendo and character at such a platform was a privilege but also a truly humbling experience. We have all gained further experience and conviction in the direction of our development, as well as highlighted issues and challenges, which we must now take back to the dojo and reflect in our practice.

Report Mr S. Miyamura
Photos Mr N. Arjan

Watchet Grading 17th May 2009

2009-05-18T13:04:00.002+01:00

Congratulations to the following for passing at the Watchet grading last weekend,

Nidan - Misuk Bae; Sandan - Peter Tornkvist; Yondan – Yukiko Miyamura.

As one of the panel on the grading board, I should not comment on these gradings but as the Instructor of the Dojo I can say that each of the members managed to show their best on the day and shined in their respective grades. I hope that this will confirm that the present training in the Dojo is developing in the right direction.
Well done to the three of you for passing through these levels and please remember the work starts now.
Also I would like to comment on the great role that Satoshi performed in the grading, having to step in as a spare fighter in the Yondan grading and having to practice in a fair and even manner for both his wife and the other Yondan candidate. He showed great maturity in his practice and must have been in a very difficult position. I am sure he has gained a great deal from this practice.
A good expression of the dojo's depth and ability.

London Cup 2-3rd May 2009

2009-05-06T23:34:00.003+01:00

Well done everybody who took part or came to watch the London Cup over the weekend. It was another two days of great kendo and friendly encounters.

Saturday 2 May was the Team event.

Including our main Hizen Team, a total of 15 people from our group competed, easily making us the largest dojo representation. Hizen Team was: Andris Pramalts in Senpo, Steve McDonald in Jiho, Nick Davey in Chuken, Ini Udofah in Fukusho, and Taisho Julian Biddulph. We started in pool D with University of Northumbria, which included Dillon Lin who filled in for their missing player, and
Portugal 2, which included Kyeong-seon Cha in Senpo and Chi Leung Fung in Fukusho position. The first match for Hizen was against University of Northumbria. Andris started positively, scoring with an early Men, but then lost two careless de-gote. Steve in contrast struggled a bit in his first match, but scored late with a good Men. Nick had to fight Dillon, and while failing to dominate the match, followed up with a nicely timed kote. Inni had a very positive match but lost by one point. At this point the match was in balance, with both teams winning two matches, and Julian faced an experienced Barry Straughan tried hard to regain the advantage, but lost to a careless hiki-men, and then to a unlucky kote.With University of Northumbria already through, Hizen's second match against Portugal 2 was to decide who goes through the pool as second. First up came Andris against Kyeong-seon, who was her usual energetic self, but also showed composure and good selection of techniques. Although Andris scored with Men early, Kyeong-seon recovered with two well timed de-gote. In jiho, Steve used his footwork effectively to put pressure on the opponent, but lost a point to de-gote. With our first two players losing, our backs were against the wall. Nick showed good composure to read the opponent well, and scored with a nicely timed Men, and then with a good kote. Inni then came up against Chi, and both had a good positive and honest contest, but Inni eventually prevailed with a nice Men.

As with the first match, with the tie in balance, Julian was again under pressure to take the responsibility as Taisho, but this time Julian scored with a nice hiki-men, and send Hizen into the knock out round. Hizen's opponent in the first round of knock out stage was the Montenegro National Team, a physical and awkward opponent. Andris struggled to impose his authority against a tall and physical opponent, and instead gave away opportunity for de-gote, which the opponent duly picked up twice. Steve showed improved performance using his footwork to create opportunities, but lost to a de-gote, and an unlucky Men. Nick in Chuken came up against a very tall jodan player. Nick used his footwork, mixing up his techniques well, and scoring on Hidari-gote (opponent's left kote), and further created two or three chances to score Men. However he could not capitalise to finish the match off, and in almost the dying seconds, the opponent scored Men to draw the match. Inni faced another Jodan, less tall but more technical player. Inni fought very positively, putting the Jodan player under pressure and creating many opportunities for nuki-men. Although unluckily losing to a kote, he did not look fazed against an opponent of international standard. Julian's Taisho match was against a physical opponent, that unfortunately became a slightly messy match, but Julian held his ground and showed a solid performance. Overall, while we were eliminated, I was very proud that everybody faced up to the difficult challenge and showed strength of character. Other Hizen members who took part in the Team Event: Phil Wilson and Clayon Stewart featured in the British National Team 2 in Pool A, which was a tough group including the Swedish National Team and Mumeishi. Phil started his match positively, always putting the opponent under pressure, but lost against Mumeishi to a well timed kote-nuki-men, while Clayon unusually started a bit slowly, losing to a straight men cut. In the second match against the Swedish National Team 1, both Phil and Clayon drew their matches, helping the contest to be a close one, but in the end were not able to get through to the knockout round. The Lithuanian National Team was also in a difficult pool facing a strong Budo XI from France and UCL, and while failing to progress, Mykolas Maciulevicius (who practiced with us on Thursday) did extremely well, winning all his matches (including a two point feat over ex-Hizen member Pascal Labru), Mindaugas Sakalauskas demonstrated one of his best competition performances in all of his matches, and Gerardas Rukas struggled against the strong French team but dominated his second match against UCL. Adam Tennant and Narendra Arjan helped out with the Latvian Riga Kendo Club, who were in another Pool of death with last year's (and this year's eventual) winner, The Italian National Team and Wakaba, which also included Jeff Martin, and while facing opponents of a higher competitive experience, both excelled to help the team progress to the knock out round, only to face the eventual runners up The Swedish National Team.

Sunday 3 May was the individual events.

Kyeong-seon Cha represented us in the Ladies Individual, and won her first match against Anja Neubauer of Germany with a nicely timed kote. Kyeong-seon generally showed a new found maturity in her kendo over the two days, without losing her usual energy. But she was overcome by a technically superior Sarah Hernandez of Switzerland in her second match, finding it difficult to keep her composure under pressure.
In the Men's Individual, the tall and awkward Jimmy Cedervall of the Swedish National Team, the eventual semi-finalist, was the nemesis of Hizen members in Shiai-jo A side of the tournament. I had him in the first round, and having taken the match to Encho, lost to another dubious Men cut. Personally it was an excellent match full of opportunities and challenges, so I was not disappointed with the experience. On the other hand, I have lost my recent three tournaments in exactly the same situation: I step in to put pressure, the opponent reacts by swinging his shinai, which I block but is deemed to have hit when it is not even close to touching the Men; so I have to think hard not to put myself in a position to give that impression to the referees. Julian Biddulph had Barry Straughan in the first round, the same opponent he faced in the teams, but this time defeated him with a confident Men cut.
Julian developed superbly over the two days, and I could see that he was gaining more and more confidence and potential in his kendo. Julian then faced Cedervall in the second round, who overpowered him by kote and men, but his overall performance over the two days was excellent. Narendra Arjan won his first match against Ronnie Gibbs of UAK with two nicely timed kote. His next match was a difficult one, having lost a men to the opponent, but then superbly recovered with kote and a men.

He faced the towering Cedervall in the third round, who again conquered Nari with two men cuts. Nari experienced disappointment here in the previous week's grading, but he responded positively showing his strength of character. His kendo has already progressed in the past one week, and the experience of competing here with opponents of a high standard will no doubt give him confidence and a platform for further development in his kendo. Mindaugas Sakalauskas faced the Swedish captain Juan Sato in the first round. Sato took the first point with a kaeshi-do, but Mindaugas levelled with a Men, and then took the second point with a kote. His second round opponent was Clayon Stewart, who in his first round negotiated an awkward match with Milutin Nikitovic of Montenegro with a Men. In the second round match, Clayon won the first point with another Men, but Mindaugas again responded with two kote to progress. Mindaugas's third round opponent was Werner Karandi of the Dutch Team, who defeated Ingo Wickenhauser in the first round, and prevailed over Denis Arsenin of Riga, who previously beat Peter Tornkvist. Mindaugas won this match as well, putting him into the best 16 of the tournament. His fourth round opponent was the colossal Cedervall, who dominated with two Men cuts. Mindaugas had gone through a difficult period in his kendo over the past year, but kept working hard, and in these two days has flourished magnificently. He was always positive, looked confident, holding his composure against opponents of superior experience. Mindaugas is an example that even when we experience disappointments and our form worsens, if we keep at it, eventually we can break out of a slump and come out stronger. Nick Davey had Martin Kiosew of Dublin in his first round. He dominated the first half of the match scoring with Men, but then sat back a bit allowing the opponent to come back with a kote. At Shobu, Nick found the courage to step forward, winning with a wonderfully timed kote. However in his second round match against Aurelien Nacrour of Mumeishi, he could not match the opponent and lost to a men and kote. Over the weekend, I think Nick developed a new dimension to his kendo, showing composure and better understanding of timing, reading the opponent well. The challenge now is to find a good balance with his usual energy and attacking flair, but I think Nick has come far since being selected in the 'squad' and putting pressure on himself to develop his kendo. Adam Pettifer came up against the young and energetic Abraham Christie of UAK in the first round and while working hard, struggled to impose his authority over the opponent. Steve McDonald faced James Ogle of University of Gloucestershire in the first round, and although eventually losing to two men cuts, used his footwork and movement effectively to create opportunities, and generally demonstrated his positive approach. Steve is another person who cultivated new dimension in his kendo over the two days, and I look forward to him taking this back to the dojo and continue his impressive progress.

In the Shiai-jo B side of the tournament, Dillon Lin won his first round match against a strong Nuno Ricardo of Portugal, and then faced Gareth Allwood-Spieres of the GP Team in his second round, who defeated Darius Sutkus of Lithuania in the first round. Allwood-Spieres took the first point with kote, but Dillon recovered with Men. Eventually Allwood-Spieres won using his experience and physical strength to take the second point with Men. Dillon was another person who performed well against strong opponents, and gained much from the experience of the weekend.After winning his first two rounds confidently, Phillip Wilson faced the eventual semi-finalist Giuseppe Giannetto of Italy, who beat Gerardas in the earlier round, in his third round match, who defeated him with a kote and men. Over the two days, Phil showed good form, being positive and always first to initiate and put pressure on the opponent, creating many chances, but against a technically good and physically strong Giannetto, found it difficult to maintain his rhythm. But his overall performance was a credit to Hizen and the GB team he represented.

Hizen members all showed an excellent standard of kendo as well as good etiquette and respectful manners.

Photos by J.Martin & N.Arjan
Report by S. Miyamura

London Kyu-Shodan garding 25th April 2009

2009-05-04T13:42:00.001+01:00

We would all like to congratulate Chi Fung for passing his Ikkyu at the London grading, we hope that this will encourage him to carry on and pursue his practice to a high level.

Lithuanian Seminar: Vilnius 12-5th March 2009

2009-03-21T15:03:00.001Z

Humm Sensei and I visited my homeland, as we have been
doing for the last four years, to hold a seminar for the members of the Lithuanian Kendo Association, of which I’m currently the president and which Humm Sensei has supported and advised on over the past few years.

Although the numbers are still small in my country, those that have attended each seminar have gained greatly from the events. This seminar was no different; the first practice was on Friday evening and we held our AGM the night before during which Sensei was formally requested to be the National Technical Adviser and coach for Lithuania.

With his usual vigour and hands on approach Sensei set out what he wanted to cover in this visit and the way that he felt the direction of our National kendo should proceed. After setting out the
main points of the practice to those in armour, which I kept a watch on, he spent the rest of the evening helping the beginners. For them this was quite wonderful having a 7th Dan spend so much time with them, leaving them with so much encouragement and optimism that they all were waiting for the doors to be
opened the next morning.

About 30 people attended each of the 4 practices. A wide range of areas were covered that would not only help the individual's Kendo on a personal level but also the group. For example: how to teach beginners, adults and children; how to set up a dojo and the basics of refereeing so that they could understand what elements make a good cut.

During the seminar time was also given to Kendo no Kata and the areas that should be worked on for each member.

Some of the members wanted to take Sensei out to a club and from the reports it seems he is also talented on the dance floor so who knows we maybe able to learn a few more things from him.

The following morning a few tired looking faces arrived as I understand they did not get back until 2am but Sensei was full of energy and joined in with us and showed all the point in his own kendo that he had been explaining for the last four days, I was proud that my country had now started to understand and practice good basic Kendo, and being able to travel and practice with our Sensei on these seminars has given me a greater understanding and a desire to learn more about how Kendo can be used to develop as a person and as a means of making life long friendships.

Report by G.Rukas
Photos by M. Maciulevicius

Congratulations

2009-02-09T21:41:00.001Z

On the 8th February at the end of the EKF seminar for refereeing a grading was held up to 7th Dan using the opportunity of having senior Japanese Hanshi in attendance.

Jeff Humm (46) was one of 3 to pass 7th Dan at this grading.
After a long wait and all the other Dan examinations over the early participants take their place to watch the final test of the day. There was quietness in the hall as the grading brings and the focus of everyone turns to the 11x11m area. The Sensei take their seats and the challenge begins.

The grading takes a standard form:

Stage 1
Two free practices which last one minute thirty seconds each. The qualities of the grade are to be shown to the panel in a natural and relaxed manner. No cut or unnecessary movements without reason are to be made.

Stage 2
If the participant passes stage 1 then they are required to perform all 10 forms of the Kendo no Kata with the highest level of feeling, control and understanding of purpose.

The members of Hizen Dojo look forward to our Sensei's return.

Report by G. Rukas
Photos Theo Van Vliet

EKF Referee’s Seminar 7-8th February 2009

2009-02-09T20:20:00.001Z

Each year the European Kendo Federation holds a seminar which 5th Dan and above Kendoka can attend to improve their refereeing skills, in addition other members join to help by taking part in shiai to help with the practice parts of the course. This year Gerrardus Rukus and Humm Sensei attended.

In the above group photo some of you may recognise Bob Harris an old member of the Dojo who has now lived in Sweden for some years, he has coached the National Swedish team and has had many other personal successes.

The seminar takes place over two days, with top Japanese Sensei teaching and selecting the referees for this year’s world championship in Brazil. Each country nominates three of their senior kendoka to attend. Each is given a number and is given practical tests while the others watch. Each point given is then questioned and analyzed.

The matches are made up from members who have come from shiai practice and they spend the two days fighting on two courts with various different kendoka.

During the seminar there are also theory and Q&A sessions which give the members a great opportunity to hear in detail the finer points of refereeing.

At the end of each day there is a large free practice with all the members taking part which is normally followed by dinner and a few drinks in the bar where old stories are told and new friends are made.

Photos by G.Rukas

Late Night at the Science Museum

2009-01-30T00:01:00.001Z

Last night six members of the dojo took part in a demonstration at the Science Museum at one of its late night openings. We were asked to put on three displays between 7-10pm as part of a Japanese themed night leading up to the opening of the Japan Car gallery. Some 3000 people came though the doors many of which watched us give a basic insight into Kendo. Members of the public included students of Imperial collage kendo club who cancelled their practice to come and watch us perform.

The first display gathered about 200 people, with very good reactions and positive comments; we had taken a different display area as the floor was not up to the punishment of Kendo footwork. The final area turned out to be a great choice, as it gave us more room and let a great number of people have access. In the second display the numbers tripled and from our point of view the second performance had the best energy.

Humm Sensei had the audience in his control and spent some time talking to the people after each performance. Many of the staff in the Museum commented on the reactions of the public and how much they personally had enjoyed the night.

This kind of event is very important, not only for the dojo but for kendo in the UK, the viewing public are able to see a correct image of the art. In all a great evening out and hopefully very fruitful for the dojo.
Photos by Nena Nogic

Hizen Kangeiko 5-9th January 2009

2009-01-11T16:12:00.001Z

This is when in our dojo the theme and aims of the coming year are set out by our Sensei these are:

Relaxed cutting action with correct weight of cut in application
Correct physical alignment before during and after the cut
Spirited attacks with purpose and reason
No unnecessary actions

Day One
The first day of kangeiko found about 25 gathered at the Somers Town Community Sports Centre. Several people got a jump on kendo in 2009 by participating in Saturday's kyu grade taikai, Sunday's Hizen taikai, or both! We start off with the traditional welcome to the New Year, toasted with a cup of sake. As soon as the warming glow is at its peak, we set off on a route march around the dojo, complete with chants to keep everyone in step.

Next was suburi, done with emphasis on the shape of the cut and the action of the wrists.
The sweat's dripping by this point and Humm Sensei spent some time demonstrating how a cut at the same speed looks faster from a standing start than from a moving one,which makes it harder to anticipate. We try some cuts again, with kiai, and two things happen; first, everyone tenses up, and second everyone slows their cut down to match their kiai.

On we go with suburi, until Humm sensei calls halt and we line up. "Men tsuke," cries sensei then he calls "Yame!" We're all too slow; we should be ready practice in 60 - 90 seconds after being told to put our armour on. We try again but we're still too slow.

We spend the rest of the practice learning about correct attitude and outlook. The importance of the right action at the right time with in the practice and how to conduct ourselves in the dojo at all times.
Day Two
A few had arrived by 18:00, and we're hanging around upstairs thinking it's too early to change into hakama and keiko-gi. We're wrong – Humm Sensei walks into the dojo and starts getting things ready. All I can do as I arrive is say 'Good evening' in a loud voice and offer to sweep the floor.

More people start to arrive, old faces and new, and by the time we start we've got 30 - 35 kendoka. It's a pleasure to see a few people who've been away for a year or more. We start with some jogging, same as day one, and in the large space it's nice to get warmed up this way. Then we line up for suburi, it's time to sweat in earnest, doing continuous sayu-men cuts back and forth across the width of the dojo - a lead-in to doing the same with a partner, then a similar exercise in bogu with motodatchi. We move on to kiri-kaeshi, extended to accommodate the width of the dojo.

We move between motodachi for a while, and then Sensei swaps the senior motodatchi for more junior ones. Things get a bit harder mentally, as the point of the practice is to elicit the three men and kote men cuts by releasing the pressure on the opponent's shinai, allowing them to take centre and cut. People make an effort to feel the release of pressure, but it's hard to get it right. Before I know it sensei's called 'Yame' and we're back in double-file, jogging around the dojo to warm down.

At the end Sensei speaks about why running in step in a group is helpful. It's not conformity for its own sake; it's also a way to understand timing and your part in it by taking control of your own individuality.

Day Three
This is crunch day. Previous experience tells me that this is when kangeiko gets tough.

We gather outside the practice hall and compare aches and pains. Some have open blisters on hands and feet, some have sore calves from the warm up and cool down jogs. One of us has nearly lost his voice. Helping to lighten the mood is the presence of a guest, Michael Ishimatsu-Prime from Kendo World.

We all pile in to the dojo at 19:00 sharp and line up quickly. There's about the same number of people as yesterday, 35 - 40, but in a smaller space. The warm up jog begins when we're done warming up, Humm Sensei splits the class by gender. He drops the axe on the lads - one thousand suburi. As we use to much physical strength in cutting. The ladies work on footwork as they don’t have the same problem we are told.

After this was completed we lined up for motodachi-geiko. Starting and ending with kiri-kaeshi, with three men and three kote-men cuts in between. This is repeated with all five motodatchi. The next exercise starts and ends with three men cuts, with a light keiko in between.

We move on to mawari-geiko focusing on building the sense of contention for centre, and taking the opportunity to cut when pressure is released.

The cool down jog came as a bit of a surprise, and we get through closing rei quickly. The mood afterwards is good, a mixture of relief at finishing keiko and pride in doing 1000 suburi.

Day Four
After the third day’s arduous suburi, everyone had a few more aches and pains to deal with as Thursday’s practice started. Still, the number of kendoka was high with 30-35 people ready for practice. Everyone is beginning to take benefit of all the exercise over the last three day, and the warm up jog is a bit more spirited this evening as a result.

The start as usual began with suburi, this time with the emphasis on the size of the step when cutting. Humm Sensei points out the distance to cover for a correct Men cut from the right maai. We work on covering this distance, and we finish this section by practicing long cuts both forward and backward, leaving the motive foot in place.
Next is kiri-kaeshi in bogu with motodachi. Our bodies appear to be remembering lessons from yesterday and the sayu-men cuts are more relaxed than at the start of the week.
After speaking briefly with the motodachi, sensei tells us that they will now cut men if we are given an opportunity by the motodachi. Normally this is a speed exercise, but that doesn’t appear to be the case this evening – the speed of my cut doesn’t seem to provoke motodachi, but something else does. It wasn’t until later that I learned that sensei had asked the motodachi to cut our Men when our Men cut wasn’t straight.

We then move on to an extension of yesterdays exercise, taking the opportunity to cut when pressure is released and the centre opens up. This time the focus is on getting the distance correct through correct footwork. The end of practice comes as a complete surprise – “Is that really two hours?” The clock on the wall confirms that it is.

Day Five
There was quite a bit of speculation about the last day of kangeiko for 2009. Those who attended the last practice in 2008 will remember that we finished on a Saturday with three hours of Keiko, after which we had to do haya-suburi for a long time. This year kangeiko finishes on a Friday with a two hour practice.

The turn out is large, about 45 kendoka for this last practice. It begins with the now familiar jog around the dojo, in unison and chanting away. After a brief basic suburi, Sensei lines us up in two lines for what can only be described as seated suburi. We start with a hundred men cuts in seiza position. Next comes a hundred more with our backsides lifted a fist’s distance from our heels. This is followed by a hundred more on our knees with our toes curled so they’re on the floor. Then it’s up into the sonkyo position for another hundred. Needless to say this is all a bit difficult to sustain, and by the end several people, can’t balance enough to perform a basic men cut and the pain is unbelievable.

Once we’re a little more conscious of keeping straight, we line up for some Keiko. After a few practices Sensei stops the group to demonstrate some of the changes to our practice that he would like to see: more awareness of centre, a better understanding of when to cut, and less reliance on overly-complicated technique. We go back to Keiko and all manage to do a bit better.

Kangeiko ends and a big crowd make their way to the pub to celebrate.
Report by S. Daniels

Hizen Winter Taikai 4th January 2009

2009-01-11T13:27:00.001Z

This event is the first for most of the members, Hizen Dojo holds two internal taikai every year; this taikai has three sections.

Explanation of the rules

Members challenge
An individual taikai for beginners up to and including 2nd Dan. To even the chance of the beginners each graded member is given a handicap of one point against them. The first round is pools system with two going though to a knock-out league. Prizes are given for the first three places and fighting spirit, best Oji waza and Shikake waza.
This year the numbers were low with only 24 taking part but a good level of Kendo with a wide range of skill was seen. With Phil Wilson the winner, second place went to Peter Tornkvist and third to Andrew Bill. The fighting spirit was awarded to Diego Luis Oriani. This year there was no outstanding Shikake or Oji waza so no award was given.

Seniors Cup
The next is a one point taikai for members that hold 3rd Dan they all fight each other and the one with the most wins is the victor, if there is an equal amount of wins the times of each point scored are added together and the person who has won in the quickness over all time is the winner. Prize is for first place only.
Only five out of the twelve 3rd Dan in the dojo took part this year due to work or family commitments, but a very impressive tournament with an outstanding performance by the winner Alex Burch who showed her natural ability to read opponents and apply the right cut at the right time.
Humm Sensei keeping his eye on proceedings

Fusen Tanker
All members are split into even numbers and grades and red and white balloons are tied to the top of the MEN. At first each colour may only attack the opposite. Once one colour has been wiped out, then the remaining members can attack each other until only one person is left with their balloon. Prize for the winner only.

As always the enjoyment of this event by all the members was a great finish to the day’s events. The final person left was Andrew Bill who had previously won this before some two are three years ago, together with his other placing he took his prize and may have spent the night drinking from it.

Winners of the Winter Taikai 2008/9

Photos J. Martin

BKA Kyusha Taikai and Kangeiko 3rd January 2009

2009-01-11T13:00:00.001Z

This was the second attempt to hold this competition, as in September last year the floor of the venue was unsuitable for kendo so it was rescheduled.

Only three members from Hizen competed in this taikai: Chi Fung, Konstantin Shaposhni Kov and David Jordan. There were also many Dan grades from Hizen who came to participate in the BKA Kangeiko and to referee the competition.

The BKA Kangeiko started around 9.30am. There was a 10 minute warm up, then about 5 minutes of suburi, followed by an hours keiko since everyone’s just come back from the Christmas break. It was very enjoyable and give a chance for many beginners to relax before the taikai.

Around 11.15 all participants registered for the taikai and the referee seminar began shortly afterwards. The seminar was just to make sure that all the referees knew what to do during a match since there were some without previous refereeing experience.

They had to alter the taikai slightly after finding out that quite a number of people didn’t turn up. Instead of starting with knock-out matches, they adopted a pool system. Each pool match was 2 minutes long whilst during the knock-out stages the matches would be 3 minutes long.

Everyone had to register again and was assigned to a group. These groups were either on shiai-jo A or B and comprised 2-3 people with only 2 people from each group progressing to the next stage. All the Hizen competitors were assigned to different groups but were all in shiai-jo B.

To officially start the taikai, all participants and referees lined up in two lines facing each other and one of the organisers gave a short speech. There were roughly 25 people.

All members did very well but in the quarter finals Konstantin and Chi were drawn together. The match started, both of them kept issoku-itto no maai, fighting for the centre throughout the match using everything they had learnt. Konstantin managed to score two MEN and went through to the semi-finals.

Konstantin fought very well in the semi-finals and his opponent was tall and very composed too. The fight went to encho and Konstantin lost to what looked like a kote-nuki-men.

Overall Hizen did very well in the taikai and the juniors seemed to really enjoy the experience and learn a few things from it. Special thanks for the support and encouragement from the senior Hizen members which was warmly received.

Congratulations to Konstantin for coming 3rd and to Chi and David for showing good Kendo.

Report by C. Fung ,Photos by J. Martin

Welcome

2008-12-27T11:20:00.001Z

To the Hizen Dojo Blog

Its purpose is to list the events, seminars and any activities that the Dojo, or its members, take part in and give a brief commentary on what happened. This will in turn hopefully form a point of interest to non members and past members who would like to still keep in touch with what the Dojo and its members are up to.

Current members still have the private forum within the website to use.

Hizen members who are no longer in the UK and wish to keep us informed of the Kendo events that you take part in please send a photo and a report to the website and we will do our best to include them.

Yoroshiku