British Kyokushin Karate 2008 Programme by Ollie Potter

OCTOBER 08

Karate Kyokushin

MAGAZINE No. 71

British Karate Kyokushinkai presents

THE BATTLE FOR THE BRITISH The 32nd British Open Knockdown Tournament

THE FIGHT FOR THE TITLE HAS NEVER BEEN HARDER Saturday 4th October 2008 @ The K2 Sports Centre, Crawley

Karate Kyokushin BRITISH

Magazine No. 71

Contents Tournament Welcome ..................................................................................................................................................................5 Junior and Cadet World Tournament ............................................................................................................................................7 2nd Swiss Open Kata Championships ..........................................................................................................................................11 Hanshi’s Welsh Regional Course ..................................................................................................................................................12 Godan Interviews ........................................................................................................................................................................13 Black Belt Course ......................................................................................................................................................................16 All Japan Open Tournament ........................................................................................................................................................19 Regional Knockdown Tournament 2008 ......................................................................................................................................21 National Kata Tournament 2008..................................................................................................................................................23 Irish Karate Kyokushinkai (1978-2008)........................................................................................................................................25 BKK Summer Camp 2008 ..........................................................................................................................................................26 2nd Yamburg Cup ......................................................................................................................................................................31 Successful Dojo? ........................................................................................................................................................................33 Thank you for your support ........................................................................................................................................................37 An Apology ................................................................................................................................................................................37 Is Black Belt the End of the Journey? ..........................................................................................................................................38 Autographs ................................................................................................................................................................................39

Editorial We publish issue number seventy-one of Kyokushin Magazine here at K2 and celebrate our 32nd Open Knockdown Tournament. After last years cancelled tournament I hope this year we can see a regeneration of energy and spirit and I have no doubt we will have an action packed day. We publish interviews with the BKK’s recent 5th Dan promotions: Alan Davis, Maria Da Costa and Dave Lund Regan. We had tremendous success at the Junior World Tournament in Belgium and include an insiders view from Andrew Turner (the English Coach). Also we report on our knockdown success in Japan and Yamburg from a very busy year for our fighters and also a report of our excellent success in the Swiss Open Kata Tournament. My thanks to the many people (mentioned elsewhere) that have help and supported this issue of the magazine and all the individuals and companies who have give financial support– in particular Porter De Vere and Trameframe for their year on year assistance. As ever Jo Merth, Ollie Potter and Shane Lalor have assisted immeasurably in many ways and my gratitude for their patience, ideas and support. As ever I welcome any articles, photos you may have for the next issue of your magazine. Liam Keaveney, Editor Kyokushinkai Magazine Editorial Office 58 Highfield Road, Chelmsford, Essex CM1 2NQ, England Tel: 01245 256891 E.mail: liam.keaveney@btinternet.com

Publisher: British Karate Kyokushinkai Editors: Liam Keaveney, Jo Merth Contributors: Andrew Turner, Sunil Tailor, Stephen Davies, Jodie Hobbs, Alan Davies, Maria Da Costa, Dave Lund Regan, Jared Wright,Shane Lalor, Liam Howlett David Pickthall, Jane Charman, Ruth Hunt and Michale Keaveney Cover Photo: Paul Garner Cover Design: Ollie Potter

Kyokushinkai Magazine welcomes articles and photographs for publication from our readers. However, any views and opinions expressed in contributors material do not necessarily represent those of the Editor in Chief or publishers of Kyokushinkai Magazine.The Kanku, Calligraphy and the word Kyokushinkai™ are registered trade marks of Kyokushin (UK) Limited. IFK logo © BPS Arneil 1992. All rights reserved. “Kyokushinkai Magazine and its Editor reserves the right to edit, alter or revise any material submitted for publication should it be deemed necessary.”

British Karate Kyokushinkai Founder and President - Hanshi Steve Arneil (9th Dan) British Karate Kyokushinkai Chairman: Shihan Liam Keaveney (6th Dan) www.bkk-uk.com

Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

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Welcome

Tournament Welcome Hanshi Steve Arneil (9th Dan) President and Founder of the British Karate Kyokushinkai On this occasion of the 32nd Open National Knockdown Tournament, I welcome you all to K2 at Crawley and I would also like to welcome our special guests to this special occasion. The fighters here today I am sure will display their skill, their fighting spirit and they will also demonstrate a true unity of comradeship through this Tournament. I am grateful for the many fighters that have travelled far to be with us here to share the day. I have travelled extensively this year around the world and I would like to thank all the many people that have welcomed me. We recently held the IFK World Cadet and Junior Tournament in Berlin and I would like to express my appreciation to all the spectators, officials and fighters that supported this event - I am so very proud that we have continued to excel at tournaments such as this. Finally I would like to extend my thanks to the BKKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Executive Committee for their tireless work in preparation for this tournament. I would also like to thank all the unnamed BKK members who have worked with true Kyokushin spirit to ensure we have an event of which we, the BKK, can be very proud.

Shihan Alex Kerrigan (6th Dan) Chief Referee of British Karate Kyokushinkai Welcome to all fighters and BKK Officials. I know you will have worked very hard over many years to be here today, whether you are representing your club, association, country or yourself. It goes without saying that l have full confidence in our Referees who are amongst the best in the world, they have a reputation of being fair and true. In addition, l have no doubt that the fighters here today will do their utmost to demonstrate their ability and fighting spirit as they do every year at our Open Tournament. On a personal note, l would like to take this opportunity to thank all BKK and IFK Officials who work very hard under sometimes difficult circumstances, and who over many years have dedicated themselves to improve their ability and achieve a higher standard. Our tournaments are dependant on their commitment and ability. Finally it only remains for me to wish you all the very best, good luck to you all.

Shihan Liam Keaveney (6th Dan) Chairman of the British Karate Kyokushinkai On behalf of the British Karate Kyokushinkai I welcome you here today to our new venue K2 Crawley where I am sure you will witness an excellent tournament. To all our fighters, officials and guests I extend my gratitude for your support without which we could never host a prestigious event such as this. I acknowledge and thank the many people who have helped to make this day possible (not least Crawley Dojo members) and to our fighters, officials and spectators I thank you for your continued support and commitment and I hope that today will be a new chapter in the history of the British Karate Kyokushinkai. Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

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Hastings & Bexhill Kyokushin Karate Club wish the British Karate Kyokushinkai every success for their 32nd National Knockdown Tournament at K2 Crawley

IFK Junior and Cadet World Tournament

IFK Junior and Cadet World Tournament July 2008, Berlin

Report: Andrew Turner (4th Dan)

Two years ago at the first World Tournament in Switzerland, Great Britain was one of the most successful countries that took part, winning the team clicker, individual boys and individual girls World titles, as well as three third place trophies in the Cadet Kyokushin fighting.The pressure was on. Could we repeat this success? At this World Tournament we were allowed to take twice the amount of fighters as the host, Germany, did not have many juniors or cadets. The GB Coach Shihan Dave LundRegan has the last say on selection, but does listen to me. We have worked well together over the years, Dave working with the Welsh fighters and myself with the English. When I was given the honoured position of England Coach by Hanshi many years ago, I wanted to take the juniors and cadets forward. When talking with Shihan Dave we both found that we wanted to try and gain more experience in international fighting. Since then we have taken part in the Pilatus Cup in Switzerland (a clicker, kata and Kyokushin fighting tournament) and the Severn Challenge (which has become a mini European tournament). We also have our annual England v Wales tournament, which in my eyes is one of the hardest events in which to compete as the atmosphere and passion is fantastic. In addition, I have also travelled to Holland and Belgium with some of the English Cadets. The experience the Cadets gain from these events is so valuable as part of their preparation for the Second World Tournament. With weekend sessions, as well as the students training at their own clubs, the team was becoming fit and sharp and in the right frame of mind. In April Shihan Dave selected twelve Clicker fighters, six boys and six girls and twelve Cadet fighters; four lightweight boys, four heavy weight boys, three lightweight girls and one heavyweight girl. The standard of all the fighters was very high and, as always, the hardest part of our job was selecting the team, as there are always disappointments. The team having been selected, training started in earnest. The last weekend session was between the 4th and 6th July. Shihan Dave brought the Welsh fighters down on the Friday. This weekend was the last chance we had to bond the team - especially at meal times in a gazebo in my garden (a big thank you to my wife, Kath, for all the hard work looking after and preparing the meals for twenty four hungry students). Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

Squad at Stansted Airport at midnight

At the end of the weekend all were tired but in good spirits and ready for the tournament. Taking twenty four fighters is not cheap. To try and raise funds the squad did a sponsored Kyokushin 5000 (1000 push ups, 1000 sit ups, 1000 squats, 1000 strikes and 1000 kicks) on 22nd June. We also held a Knockdown course at Dunmow, for which I would like to give a big thank you to Shihan Liam Keaveney, Shihan Nick Da Costa, Sensei Terry Prescott and Sensei Kenny Jarvis for giving up their Sundays to teach. After the course the instructors and students took part in a charity football match with a local football team from Dunmow. The result was BKK 1 – Dunmow 6 (won’t mention the penalty I missed three times!!). The best sponsorship we received for the squad was £1000 from BAA Stansted which went towards the GB tracksuits. On behalf of the team I would like to thank BAA and Valda Edmunds for their support. Thursday 10th July With the preparation finished and all the fund raising done the big day arrived. We all met at Stansted at the ungodly hour of 4.00am as our flight departed at 6.20am. Checking in twenty four young people was quite a task but it all went smoothly, and with the parents and officials all checked in as well, we departed on time and arrived in Berlin at about 9 am. A coach was organised by Shihan Liam for the team and supporters, sixty of us. After a short journey we arrived at our hotel. Everyone settled into their accommodation, which I must say was very good. As Coaches it is always good to see your fighters relaxed and well fed. That evening the draw took place for the World Clicker Tournament. It

was nice to see that both boy and girl individuals had over sixty fighters in each category. In the Team event GB A were to fight Holland A, and GB B were to fight Norway. We knew that both Holland and Norway were up and coming Clicker teams, so we had our work cut out. While the draw was taking place the Cadets had their medicals and, after a lengthy debate, it was decided that the weigh-in would take place on Saturday. Friday 11th July World Clicker Tournament The day of the World Clicker Tournament was here for the juniors and all were in good spirits if not a little nervous. A number of mini buses were provided to take all the fighters to the tournament venue; the journey seemed to take ages. However once at the venue the fighters changed and the parents set up their support area with their Union Flags. It always makes me feel very proud when we walk out with the team all looking really smart in their GB tracksuits, with the British supporters making the loudest noise. The hairs on the back of my neck stood up. The fighting began.

Victory smiles

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IFK Junior and Cadet World Tournament

I coached the girls and Shihan Dave coached the boys. All fought brilliantly and, although on a couple of occasions I was worried about the Doctor being over cautious, most of the girls got through the first round. Laura-Beth Harman, Eve Williams, Leah Evans and Rachael Door all lost in the earlier rounds, but only by a few points. As England coach I don’t usually get the chance to coach the Welsh fighters, but it was a pleasure and honour to coach the Welsh girls and they listened and responded well when fighting. Mollie Milton and Laura Picot fought their way to the semi finals and, after a nervous start, Mollie improved, scoring some lovely Ippon kicks. Laura, like Mollie, started nervously and in the first round only just won. After that she raised her game and with each round got better and better. Both Mollie and Laura fought very strong aggressive girls from Ireland. The experience of the two GB fighters was too much for the Irish girls and we had an all GB final. The final was very close and neither fighter wanted to give anything away. Unfortunately for Laura, Mollie had very fast kicks and caught Laura with a precision Jodan Mawashi giving her an Ippon. Although Laura didn’t give up, time ran out and Mollie was crowned World Champion for 2008. I can’t comment on how the boys fought, as Shihan Dave was coaching them and I’m sure he will write a separate report, but again we had a GB final with Nathan Williams and Matthew Ali, which Nathan won making him World Champion. In the semi finals Nathan had beaten Sami Mehio so we had 1st, 2nd and 3rd place! A great achievement for all. World Tournament Team Event A Team: Sami Mehio, Nathan Williams, Joseph Davies, Laura Picot, Laura Beth Harmen and Eve Williams. B Team: Jordan Da Costa, Luke Baldwin, Matthew Ali, Mollie Milton, Leah Evans, Rachael Door. In the Team event I coached the B team and Shihan Dave coached the A team. In the first round GB A had to fight a very strong Holland A, and GB B fought a very strong Norwegian team. Both A and B teams had very close fights, beating both Holland and Norway. In the next round GB B fought Switzerland A, runners up in the 2006 World Tournament. The B team fought really well, but the all boy Swiss team were too strong and won their place in the semi finals. GB A beat Switzerland B to reach the semis and were to meet the host team Germany. In the semi finals Switzerland A beat Ireland to reach the finals and GB A beat our old foes Germany, always nice to beat the Germans! 8

Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

Our GB cadets only start this system of fighting when they reach 16. All the GB fighters have been very committed to their training, and as the months went past I could see their fitness levels and confidence growing. Although all our fighters did exceptionally well and fought with great determination and spirit, you cannot take away the fact that we lack experience in Kyokushin fighting. This is something we need to address for the future. Possibly taking fighters abroad at fourteen years of age? The fighters for each category and results:

The finals were a repeat of the finals of the First World Tournament, only this time the Swiss were out for revenge and after five fights the score was two fights to GB and two fights to Switzerland and one draw. It was a dramatic way to finish an excellent final - a fight off. Sami Mehio had fought really well all day, so much so that at the end of the tournament he was presented with the Best Technique trophy of the Tournament.This also showed in the fight off and Sami won, so retaining the World Team Championship Title for Great Britain. A great achievement for all the fighters. Shihan Dave and myself were extremely proud of them all.We are the dominant force in Clicker fighting, but the other countries are getting better and better.We can never become complacent and must always train with that in our minds and not “take our foot off the accelerator”. Saturday 12th July Cadet Kyokushin World Tournament As we all know, the favourites for the Kyokushin World Tournament are the Russians. Although there are some exceptional fighters in all the European countries as they all fight Kyokushin rules fighting from a very, very young age.

Boys Lightweight Category Kieran Rix – Kieran started off really well against a strong Dutch fighter. Kieran delivered a powerful low kick which hit his opponent on the front of the knee. Unfortunately Kieran came of worse and withdrew with a bad shin injury. Matt Owen – Matt was first up of the day and fought an exceptionally strong fighter from Belarus. Matt took a lot of punishment in the first round but did enough to get a draw. In the next two rounds he matched the Belarus fighter for determination and spirit but lost the decision in the Encho Sen. Dan Fryer – Dan fought a Dutch fighter and the fight was very even, Dan hitting him with some very good low kicks. Before the fight Dan had asked me which side the liver was as he was going to try and work on that side.You can guess what happened - the Dutch fighter caught Dan in his liver knocking him down. He jinxed himself and we did laugh about it afterwards. Charlie Venes – Charlie being one of our lightest fighters in this category had to fight one of the heaviest, a big lad from Switzerland. Charlie has an array of knockdown techniques but fighting a heavy fighter was too much for him, and in the second round the Swiss fighter scored two wazaris putting him through to the next round. www.bkk-uk.com

IFK Junior and Cadet World Tournament

Boys Heavyweight Category Brandon Thorpe – Brandon had a superb fight against a strong Russian. From the start Brandon was on top of his opponent pushing him back. The Russian fighter did well to fight, as he was pushed back and after two tiring rounds it was a draw. The Russian won on weight. Brandon had hurt him as he did not fight as well in the next round. I am sure with more experience, Brandon will become a very good adult fighter. Sam Hughes – Sam and Brandon were the heaviest fighters in this category and both took the fight to their Russian opponents. I think they both surprised them and fought with great spirit and determination. Unfortunately Sam twisted his ankle badly and the fight was awarded to his opponent. Henryk Jakiabuk – Henryk is probably our most inexperienced fighter but has a great future in front of him. He showed great spirit and determination hitting his Russian opponent with some very strong techniques. Unfortunately he got caught with a Chudan Mawashi which gave the Russian an Ippon. Adam Chamberlain – Adam, like Henryk, is one of our inexperienced fighters and fought an extremely strong Russian fighter who knocked him down with punches to the stomach. Girls Lightweight Category Jessica Bond – Jessica had improved greatly in her training but when the draw was made that morning Jess found she was fighting a Russian, which I think made her extra nervous. On the day she gave her all, but the Russian was too strong and gained two Wazari’s thereby winning the fight. Roxanne Nauth-Misir – Roxanne, like Jess, had improved greatly, and with a little more experience could have beaten her Dutch opponent. The Dutch girl won on decision in Encho Sen. A great achievement for Roxanne. Ceira Thomas – Of all the girls, Ceira is probably the most experienced fighter. This showed and she won her first round comfortably against a strong Swiss girl. In the quarter finals she fought a strong girl from Estonia. Although Ceira pushed her opponent back, the Estonian did enough to get a draw after two rounds and, being lighter than Ceira, won on weight.

Hanshi with Andrew and Kath Turner

Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

Kristin Reinhart, with Liam Keaveney, Hanshi Arneil and Alex Kerrigan

Alex Kerrigan, Shane Lallor and Ray Bond

Paul baker and Alex Kerrigan

Nick Da Costa, David Pickthall, Maria Da Costa, Alex Kerrigan and Liam Keaveney

Nick and Maria Da Costa

Girls Heavyweight Category Leah Selway – Leah is a determined fighter and I had the pleasure of coaching her in the Pilatus Cup in March. She took the fight straight to her Russian opponent, who eventually won the World title. Leah was doing extremely well but the Russian performed what I can only say was a perfect Jodan Ushiro Mawashi knocking Leah out. It’s not nice being knocked out, as I know from experience, you don’t know much about what happened. Leah is “a fighter” and I am sure she will come back strong and not get knocked out again. Dave and I are very proud and honoured to be their Coaches and although the results do not justify how hard and dedicated all the fighters were in the build up to the tournament they can be proud of themselves. We are the best at clicker. We must work harder, and hopefully we will become the best at Kyokushin fighting. Perhaps taking fighters to other countries at a younger age of maybe 14/15 year olds is the answer, but that decision has to be discussed. The Russians are very good as they train in this system of fighting from a very young age. Like most of the other countries the junior teams want to beat us. We have to aspire to beat the Russians!! Here’s to the next World Junior and Cadet Tournament.

Sayonara Party The party was attended by all the fighters, and although the cost was quite high everyone had a great time. It’s always nice to see all the juniors and cadets mixing with the other countries. There were some great friendships made over the weekend which our fighters will never forget. After a nice day sightseeing and bowling (who won Dave??) in Berlin we took a coach to the airport and landed at Stansted at around 10.50pm. All very tired but also very happy. After taking some last photos we all made our way home. I would just like to thank everyone that helped with our Juniors and Cadets and a big thank you to all the parents and karateka that came along to support the Great Britain teams.You were wonderful and a great incentive for the fighters. Thanks also to Hanshi and Shihan Liam for their support and guidance with the Juniors and Cadets. Conclusion Thanks to all the countries that attended and supported the event and the IFK Germany for hosting the Tournament under Shihan Thomas Imm. Kristin Reinhart did a tremendous job in co ordination the event and without her the tournament would have been an impossibility.To all the supporters that travelled far and wide – my thanks. Shihan Alex Kerrigan (IFK Knockdown Chief Referee) and Sensei Ray Bond (IFK Clicker Chief Referee) ensured that two day event went without a hitch. Finally a thank you to the IFK President Hanshi Steve Arneil for his enthusiasm and vision.

Liam Keaveney (Editor)

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IFK Junior and Cadet World Tournament

Junior and Cadet World Tournament, Berlin, July 2008 Results Clicker Teams 1st Great Britain 2nd Switzerland 3rd Germany Ireland

Cadets Female - Over 58kg 1st Anna Badmaeva (Russia) 2nd Shannon van der Linden (Belgium) 3rd Maria Goleshchikhina (Russia) Charell van Dooljenwaard (Holland)

Girls Individual Clicker 1st Mollie Milton (Great Britain) 2nd Laura Picot (Great Britain) 3rd Meeghan Daly (Ireland) Shannen McGuiness (Ireland)

Cadets Female – Under 58kg 1st Ksenia Ulitina (Russia) 2nd Anastasia Usova (Russia) 3rd Silvia den Ridder (Holland) Ekaterina Gorbatikova (Estonia)

Boys Individual Clicker 1st Nathan Williams (Great Britain) 2nd Matthew Ali (Great Britain) 3rd Lars Mathingsdal (Norway) Sami Mehio Great Britain)

Cadets Male – Under 68kg 1st Viktor Kurilenko (Russia) 2nd Danil Malyukov (Russia) 3rd Ivan Hladki (Belarus) Alexander Sredanovic (Holland)

Cadets Male Boys – Over 68kg 1st Alexader Pasechnik (Russia) 2nd Ayaz Shirinbekov (Russia) 3rd Andrey Chernov (Russia) Denis Petrov (Russia)

Shortly after the World Tournament Kristin Reinhart gave birth to her daughter Finja

The British Karate Kyokushinkai would like to thank the BAA

for their support and sponsorship of the British Squad at the World Junior and Cadet Tournament in Berlin BAA the worlds leading airport company www.BAA.com 10

Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

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2nd Swiss Open

2nd Swiss Open Kata Championships Sensei Sunil Tailor took a team of 12 to represent Great Britain at the tournament, held in Willisau, Switzerland on 28th July. Representing the Juniors were: Charlie Venes (1st Dan), Laura-Beth Harman (1st Kyu), Lucy Cross (1st Kyu) and Nathan Williams (1st Kyu). Representing the Senior Men were: Chris Davies (3rd Dan) and Darren Stringer (3rd Dan) and Stephen Davies (2nd Dan) and Anil Tailor (2nd Dan). Representing the Senior Women were: Janine Davies (4th Dan) and Emma Markwell (2nd Dan), Lucy Wilson (2nd Dan) and Lisa Heath (1st Dan). Fantastic performances from all with 11 making the finals and taking all the top spots from each category! Teams were from Switzerland, Israel, Kuwait, GB to name but a few.

Article: Lucy Wilson (2nd Dan)

British Kata Squad

Regular squad trainings were held both in England and Wales and a number of fund raising events were also organised to cover costs such as travel, accommodation, tracksuits, etc. In one of the events 25 katas and 25 fights were performed from the syllabus (2 katas 2 fights), Katas were from taikiyoku sono ichi all the way to Sushiho. Total time took, 1hr 45 mins (after a squad session). A number of companies also aided the sponsorships: Woodland Homes,Valmec Lifts, SAMUK, to name a few. Thanks to all who supported the event and also the squad for making this a memorable trip. Junior Team 1st Great Britain (Charlie Venes, Laura-Beth Harman, Nathan Williams) 2nd Switzerland 3rd Swizterland 4th Switzerland

Junior Boys 1st Charlie Venes - Great Britain 2nd Luca Bentivoglio - Switzerland 3rd Philipe Bannwart - Swizterland 4th Sandro Gabathuler - Switzerland 8th Nathan Williams - Great Britain

Junior Girls 1st Lucy Cross - Great Britain 2nd Laura-Beth Harman - Great Britain 3rd Alexandra Bucher - Swizterland 4th Gianna Burri - Switzerland

Senior Men 1st Darren Stringer - Great Britain 2nd Chris Davies - Great Britain 3rd Roland Muller - Swizterland 4th Marc Unterasinger - Switzerland 6th Steve Davies - Great Britain 10th Anil Tailor - Great Britain

Senior Women 1st Janine Davies - Great Britain 2nd Melania Garcia - Switzerland 3rd Dolores Jaros - Swizterland 4th Lisa Heath - Great Britain 5th Emma Markwell - Great Britiain 6th Lucy Wilson - Great Britain

Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

Senior Team 1st Great Britain A (Janine Davies, Chris Davies, Darren Stringer) 2nd Kriens A - Switzerland 3rd P Wohlen - Swizterland 4th Great Britain

Folkestone Kyokushinkai Karate Morehall School Folkestone (Mondays) Juniors 6:15 - 7:45, Seniors 8:00 - 9:30 Alkham Village Hall, (Thursdays) 7:15 - 8:45

Contact details Phil Fiolet 3rd Dan - 07769 857596 Simon Huggins 2nd Dan - 07771 638820 Ray Granger 1st Dan - 07710 272100

For more information please visit our website at

www.folkestone-kyokushinkai.co.uk All BKK members and new members welcome www.bkk-uk.com

Welsh Regional Course

Hanshi’s Welsh Regional Course

Article: Stephan Davies (2nd Dan), Photos: Jodie Hobbs

With baited breath, students throughout the South Wales Clubs were preparing themselves for a first taste of training under our President and Chief Instructor, Hanshi Steve Arneil (9th Dan) on Sunday 3rd August. For many of us, it was another opportunity to be put through our paces, mentally and physically, by the man who knows only too well, the meaning of perseverance, grit and determination. Hanshi was accompanied by Shihan Liam Keaveney (6th Dan), who, with his unique take on our techniques, always delivers a very insightful approach to Kyokushin training. A fabulous turnout in Abercynon Sports Centre, home of Shihan Alan Davies’ club, combined with karateka of all ages, 8th Kyu right up to 5th Dan, including our new “Welsh World Champion”, Nathan Williams, led to this course being a fantastic success. Shihans Alan Davies (5th Dan) and Dave Lund-Regan (5th Dan) were in attendance, leading the way throughout the day, with seemingly boundless energy, putting many of us to shame when it came to the last hour of intense techniques. The course began with the customary blowing out of cobwebs, 10th Kyu, 9th Kyu and 8th Kyu Syllabus, followed by 17 hand techniques and the 21 kick combinations, a good warm-up for any grade. Hanshi continued with his recently updated way of stretching the legs, hips, groin and back, moving on to the unique training method of Tai-Ki-Ken. As an exercise, I think I speak for the majority when I say this could possibly be the most difficult thing to master within the realms of our training. As I understood, the principle of Tai-KiKen can be used within all our karate techniques. Hanshi explained its principle is that slow movements are used to develop strength throughout our stances, hand techniques and katas. He went on to explain that many of us have been practising this for years without realising what it was, first of all in Pinan Sono Ni. The slow, strong movement of uchi uke to the hip is the first movement where we use this method. Moving in Zenkutsu-dachi however, to a count of 5, then 10 and finally 20, is almost impossible without months of practice. Hanshi later told us that he used this method of training for many months before his 100 man kumite. For the following hour we were split into two groups, the Black Belts with Shihan Liam and all other grades with Hanshi. 12

Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

Course member line up

Alan Davis, Dave Lund Regan, Liam Keaveney and Hanshi

Shihan Liam began with his insight into Sanchin Kata and how he has looked back for its origins and its uses. He utilised work with partners to show how weak a traditional sanchin stance can be, with centre of gravity being high, leading to unbalance. As with previous instruction from Shihan Liam, he encouraged us all to look at our techniques in more depth, how they can be used in certain situations and how they would be utilised throughout the 360 degrees around the body. Techniques such as Ryoken and Ippon Ken were demonstrated, striking untraditional targets on the body, mainly my body. As the training progressed, I came to realise that as instructors, we should be encouraging students to practise these techniques, not just in thin air, but on pads, focus mitts and even with partners. As Shihan Liam pointed out, we, as karateka should be more aware of the capability of these strikes, with students requiring more depth and knowledge about what they are doing, not just gaining the ability to pass a grading. Following this hour or so, the Instruction was swapped over and within minutes we were in Zenkutsu-Dachi, preparing for Hanshi to extract the last ounces of energy from our bodies. We proceeded to move, performing Hiza-Geri, only to be told after

Course Black Belts

12 stances and 12 Hiza-Geris, we would eventually get to Ushiro Kakato Geri but not without performing every kick in between. Things began to get a little tiring around Tobi Mai Geri, with many people starting to look a little worse for wear, except of course Shihans Dave and Alan, with Sensei Janine also pushing the pace. It’s great to see your instructors in the role of student and you begin to realise just a small part of how they have got to the grade they have. As with all of Hanshi’s training, no-one was shown any sympathy and, on reaching the final kicks, I think it’s safe to say we were all glad we made the end. As we lined up to end the course a sense of satisfaction filled the sports hall. To get through another training course with Hanshi is always great, but to see so many of our young students sweating and smiling in equal amounts was fantastic. Many of the stretching and training methods have already been applied in our club, making our training more thought provoking and interesting. Upon taking the bows, Shihan Dave LundRegan extended thanks to Hanshi and Shihan Liam for coming to Wales. I personally would like to offer the thanks of all of the students of Mountain Ash and hope we get the opportunity to train with our top instructors more in the future. www.bkk-uk.com

Godan Interviews

By Shane Lalor (4th Dan)

In the last Kyokushin Magazine we interviewed Shihans Alex Kerrigan and Liam Keaveney following their promotion to Rokudan. It seems only fitting then that we interview the BKKs newest Shihans following their promotion to Godan â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Shihans Alan Davies, Dave Lund Regan and Maria da Costa. I have met Shihan Dave on a number of occasions but have only ever spoken to Shihan Maria twice and, until recently, had never even met Shihan Alan. It is difficult to interview people you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know, as most of the questions can only ever be relatively superficial. As luck would have it, once the interviews were completed, I managed to meet and talk to all three Shihans in Berlin at the World Junior Tournament.Time constraints precluded me from probing further but I like to think that some of the essence of each person is captured in their answers. Shihan Alan Davies Osu Shihan. I suppose the best place to start is at the beginning. Can you tell us how you came to be involved in the BKK? I first became interested in karate at the age of 16, when a work colleague was showing off breaking wood and demonstrating karate moves. He trained at a club in Caerphilly, some 12 miles from my home. I decided to pop along and see for myself. I had always been interested in keeping fit by circuit training etc, but had never really stuck to anything. However I liked the ethos of Kyokushinkai Karate and started training in Caerphilly twice a week. At that time my only means of getting there was by public transport or the odd lift. Can you give us some history of your dojo, Mountain Ash? In 1975 I transferred to Mountain Ash dojo which was then held in the local YMCA. I trained under Senpais Wayne Smith and Mike Watkins, under the supervision of Shihan Howard Collins. Howard Collins later moved to Sweden. Senpai Wayne was the person who inspired me most and, ultimately, in 1984 he asked me if I would take over the running of the club. After a short while the club transferred to Abercynon sports centre and it was very important to us to retain the name Mountain Ash, and this is where we still train today. I have encouraged high grade students to open clubs of their own, and to name a few Aberpennar,Ynysybwl, Cwmaber and Treforest, although the latter two have since closed. So many students and their families have supported Mountain Ash over the years and I feel it is their commitment that has made Mountain Ash as strong as it is today. I also feel it is important to remember those students who have sadly passed away since I have been running Mountain Ash. When I Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

present Student of the Year trophies it is always in their memory, thereby they are never forgotten. Looking back over the results in all competition aspects of Kyokushin in the BKK in the last 20 years or so it seems Mountain Ash has won more than its fair share of trophies. To what do you attribute this? We have been very fortunate to have had such dedicated and skilled students who have remained faithful to Kyokushinkai and Mountain Ash dojo in particular. Many of the students grew up in the club from childhood to adulthood and now bring their own children to train with us. Training is available three nights a week and when a competition is imminent special sessions are arranged in preparation for the forthcoming tournament. The higher grade students rally round, giving up their time to encourage the students who are entering and to help them reach their true potential. We have enjoyed tremendous success over the years which makes me very proud to be a part of the Mountain Ash Club and the commitment shown by everyone involved. I have always felt great pride in seeing a Mountain Ash student or team event in the tournament result sheets. There are many individual students and instructors, who I will not mention by name for fear of missing someone out, who have contributed towards our competition successes. Shihan what does the promotion to Godan mean to you personally and what do you think it means to the BKK and IFK? I was very humbled and privileged to accept a 5th dan grade from Hanshi. I never envisaged being a higher grade than Sandan. On each occasion when I have been promoted it has inspired me tremendously, purely due to the utmost respect and regard

Alan Davis

that I have for Hanshi and his many achievements. I hope I have helped to play a small part in promoting the BKK and the IFK and will continue to do so. What is the best advice you could give to someone just starting in Kyokushin today. We are very fortunate in our club that we attract students of all ages. My advice to new students is to enjoy the training and not to be in too much of a rush to pass gradings and win competitions. Nothing gives me greater pleasure than to see students who may not have the greatest of abilities when they first come to the dojo, blossom into first class students. Finally, I would like to express my gratitude and thanks for all the friendships that I have formed over the years by being a member of the BKK www.bkk-uk.com

Godan Interviews

Shihan Maria DaCosta Osu Shihan. I suppose the best place to start is at the beginning. Can you tell us how you came to be involved in the BKK? II started at a club in the Elephant and Castle called RHQ just before my thirteenth birthday. My father worked in the British Telecom building where the club trained and suggested I give it a go. I had no idea about the different styles or standards of karate being taught. I was just lucky to stumble across a reputable club. What was the training like back then? Same as it is now, hard! What does the promotion to Godan mean to you personally and what do you think it means to the BKK and IFK? To be awarded a 5th Dan was totally unexpected and I am not sure how I feel about it. I have joined a small elite group of Shihans for whom I have the utmost respect and I do not yet feel worthy to be part of it. The BKK now has its first female British Shihan and I hope more female karateka will be inspired by this. You are the BKK Treasurer and Summer Camp Officer– how did you come to take on these roles? There was a vacancy for the position of treasurer so I applied, simple as that. As for summer camp officer, I located to the Oxford venue in Kingham and as I had the contacts, it made sense for me to organise it and I have simply continued to do so.

What are your hopes for the future of the BKK and the IFK? I believe I was asked a similar question in an interview approximately eight years ago and I said then that I wanted the BKK’s numbers to increase, for us to have our own fully equipped Honbu for all to use and lastly to host a world tournament. We have achieved one out of the three so I guess I am still hoping for the other two. As far as the IFK is concerned I hope it continues to expand whilst ensuring it maintains the high standards and traditions that make Kyokushin such a highly respected style. You were one of the forerunners of Womens Knockdown. How do you think it has evolved since its inception? I don’t feel Women’s knockdown in Britain has progressed as much as it should have done. I am not sure why, but I guess it is partly due to the lack of numbers consistently participating. Obviously karate is a male dominated sport, so there are less females taking part. We do however have one or two success stories amongst the female fighters. We also have some talented female cadets who are just starting out in knockdown, and if they continue and are given the opportunity to progress, I believe the standard of women’s knockdown in Britain will increase. You teach at Newbury Park and Docklands dojos with Shihan Nick. Can you tell us a little about the history of both clubs? Docklands dojo was opened in 1987 and we celebrated our 20th anniversary last year. Newbury Park was opened in 1999. Both

NORTHAMPTON KARATE KYOKUSHINKAI Extends its best wishes to the BKK for a successful Nationals Championship at the new venue K2 Crawley

N. K. K. INFORMATION:Senpai CATHY OBRIEN (2nd Dan) TELEPHONE – 07723 345 651 EMAIL – CAT@LIVE.CO.UK Training:TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS JUNIORS 6.30PM – 7.45PM SENIORS 7.45PM – 9.00 Dojo Address:DELAPRE PRIMARY SCHOOL, ROTHERSTHORPE ROAD, NORTHAMPTON NN4 8JA

Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

Maria Da Costa

clubs have had their share of success with national and international champions at all levels. At the last Junior World Championships we had Alex Small from Newbury Park and Chris Da Costa from Docklands who were part of the team that became the first Junior World Clicker champions and Alex Small went on to become a double world champion in the individual section. We also have a strong section of up and coming cadets, a number of which have fought for England, as have our adults. What is the best advice you could give to someone just starting in Kyokushin today. I would first congratulate them on finding a reputable martial art amongst the ever growing minefield of styles. I would then remind those who join Kyokushin that they have chosen a style that prides itself on its standards and traditions, and to fully benefit from Kyokushin they must be prepared to face the challenges and to uphold our traditions www.bkk-uk.com

Godan Interviews

me to speak to Hanshi to see if we could concentrate on one, the Bo, and he agreed.

Shihan David Lund Regan Osu Shihan. I suppose the best place to start is at the beginning. Can you tell us how you came to be involved in the BKK? I became interested when a friend of mine rang me up to ask if I wanted to go to Karate, even though he couldn’t say the name of the style. As I have always been interested in Martial arts from the age when Bruce Lee came out, I said yes straight away. We went along to a session in Pontypridd under the then Sensei Alwyn Heath. We came away with me not being able to use my arms and Andrew, who went with me, not able to walk properly. However, we were hooked and I have trained with the BKK ever since. Shihan what does the promotion to Godan mean to you personally and what do you think it means to the BKK and IFK? To be awarded Godan is an honour. One never really thinks about Yondan or higher after Sandan, as that is the last grading one does and it’s the hardest. Being awarded Godan was special, however, it comes with its responsibilities as well. One has to be prepared to put more time into the BKK, not that I have much time left because I already have a few roles. I think it is good for the BKK and the IFK to have more Godans and the more high grades there are gives the organisation as a whole a better profile. You have taught courses in the use of the Bo. Can you tell us a little of how you came to be interested in that? A number of years ago on our first summer

Are there any plans to formally make the Bo part of the BKK or IFK syllabus? No. I think it would be too much to ask as there is already enough to learn in the syllabus without the added work of mastering the Bo. It is only taught as an extra discipline so that a student can decide whether or not he or she would like to learn it and, if so, extra time would need to be dedicated in order to achieve the chosen level.

Dave Lund Regan

camp Sensei John Moulden and I decided to choose a weapon and learn how to use it. I chose Nunchuku and Sensei John chose Bo. We thought this may be a way of breaking up the syllabus and encouraging children to join the club. We duly went off to learn our chosen weapons. However, I also wanted to learn Bo and took time out from Nunchuku to concentrate on Bo, as I though it would be a weapon that everyone could learn to use. At summer camp I was asked to teach Bo and Nunchuku, but I found it rather a nightmare running between the two groups. This led

Along with Sensei Andrew Turner you have been coaching the BKK Junior and Cadet squads for the last few years. Can you tell us how you came to be in that role? A few years? It seems like a few years but in reality it’s been 17 years, how time flies. I took up the role in 1991 when the position came up in Wales, even then I had ideas about junior camps and extra tournaments for Wales as a country. I started the Severn Challenge with Sensei Jim Elvery, who at the time was the coach for England. A few years later I continued with Sensei Andrew Turner. The Severn Challenge is essentially run by Sensei Andrew and yourself. Are you happy with the progress it’s making and where would you like to see it go? I’m very happy with its progress. Each year another country joins us and each year it gets better. I would like to think we could get this tournament to a stage when eight countries participate, that would then be some achievement

Roath Kyokushinkai Karate Club Skillet Catering wish the BKK every success at their new venue K2 Crawley Drop in for a coffee and handmade sandwich. All catering events undertaken - creating delicious cooking using only the best ingredients sourced locally.

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Monday at YMCA Roath (Cardiff) 7.15pm to 9.00pm Wednesday Ponteprennau Community Hall 8.00pm to 9.30pm

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Black Belt Course 2008

Black Belt Course 2008 The BKK’s annual Black belt course was held on 3rd February in Reading and the course was held by Hanshi Steve Arneil (9th Dan) assisted by Shihan’s Alex Kerrigan (6th Dan) and Liam Keaveney (6th Dan) – this was followed by a specific course on Child Protection held by Bryn Hughes.

Shihan Alex Kerrigan discusses kihon

Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

Course Senseis, Shihans with Hanshi

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British Karate Kyokushinkai We have over fifty clubs throughout the UK if you are an individual or a club instructor and you wish to know details of clubs, locations, etc., please visit the BKKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website:

www.bkk-uk.com or contact the BKK Chairman for further information: Liam Keaveney (6th Dan) 58 Highfield Road Chelmsford Essex CM1 2NQ

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Wimbledon Karate Kyokushinkai

For further infomation contact Hanshi Steve Arneil (9th Dan) T: 0208 946 0673 E: hanshi@the-ifk.co.uk Training: Mondays and Wednesdays Dojo: Raynes Park Sports Ground, Taunton Avenue, Raynes Park, SW20 0BH

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Kyokushinkai is a traditional style of karate which encompasses all aspects of martial arts training and features an optional full contact fighting system. The Dunmow dojo was opened in 1985 by Sensei Andrew Turner and has consistently provided high quality karate tuition to children and adults of all ages. Sensei Andrew is the England Junior/cadet coach - his wealth of experience and enthusiasm for karate has produced regional, national, international and European champions in full contact and semi contact fighting as well as kata competitions. During the 4 week FREE beginners course you will learn basic karate techniques, self defence and stretching exercises as well as improving your fitness and making new friends in what we consider an extremely friendly and welcoming club.

Juniors Tues 6-7pm (Dunmow Leisure Centre) Thurs 7-8pm ( Gt Dunmow Primary School) Cost ÂŁ2.00 per lesson Seniors Tues 8pm-10pm (Arts Centre, Haslers Yard) Thurs 8-10pm (Gt Dunmow Primary School) cost ÂŁ3.50 per lesson

Barber Sporting Enterprises Sponsors of the BKK Wish the BKK every success at the 32nd Open National Knockdown Tournament 2008

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All Japan Open November 2007

Kyokushin-Kan International Organisation

By Jared Wright (2nd Dan)

I was delighted when I heard the news that three of the BKK’s elite fighters where to be testing their skills at the IFKK All Japan Open Knockdown tournament held at the world famous Super Arena in Saitama, Japan. Sempais Kenny Jarvis, Wai Cheung and Miguel Fernandez were to re-write the history books as they became the first BKK fighters to fight in Japan since Shihan David Pickthall fought in the Shidokan World Tournament in 1994. I was fortunate enough to attend the tournament and offer my support. Preliminary Round All three BKK fighters had been drawn in the preliminary round against lighter Japanese opponents. To avoid losing on weight decisions, they realised they would have to fight to their potential. First up was Miguel, he started the fight by keeping his distance and connecting with some fierce punch kick combinations, which immediately hurt his opponent. Miguel had taken control of the fight and showed his class by cruising to a first round decision. Next was Wai, who again showed true class with some great footwork backed up with clinical combinations. Wai piled on the pressure keeping his opponent on the back foot for the entire round and earning the decision. With Miguel and Wai comfortably through to the last sixteen, the pressure was on for Kenny to join them. Kenny’s trusted low kick combinations caused his opponent some early discomfort and he continued to pick off his shots with some fluid footwork. In the blink of an eyelid, Kenny unleashed a lightning ushuro mawashi geri that knocked his opponent clean out to earn him the first Ippon of the tournament. There were echoes of appreciation around the arena for Kenny’s technique and the Japanese spectators were now talking about the class and finesse of the British fighters who had well and truly made their mark on this tournament. With the preliminary rounds drawn to a close, the official opening ceremony took place. The British fighters all stood proud among the last sixteen as IFKK Kancho Royama opened the tournament with a heart warming speech. The Tameshawari was next. Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

The BKK fighters having a proven record in wood breaking, was emphasised when Miguel broke an impressive twenty six boards over four breaks, Empi, Shuto, Seiken and Kakato (heel break). Last Sixteen First up was Miguel who was drawn against a similar weighted Japanese fighter. Miguel started the fight on top keeping his favoured distance and launching in with some strong punching combinations followed by heavy low kicks, this caused his opponent to close the distance and smother his techniques. The fight continued, now being fought on the inside, as Miguel’s opponent tried to break his momentum. Whilst trying to hold his ground Miguel, to the astonishment of the crowd, was issued a gentan ichi for pushing. It is well known that in Japan a gentan ichi will cost you the fight, similar to losing a wazari, Miguel tried in vain to

Kancho Royama

pull the fight back but was unsuccessful. Wai knew that the rules had now become very strict, so approached his second round fight intelligently. He too was drawn against a resilient Japanese fighter. Wai dished out some crisp combinations which hurt his opponent very early on, causing him to close the gap to avoid sustaining more punishment. Wai dealt with his opponent’s punch combinations by parrying and countering, surprisingly two of the judge’s flags waved an infringement against Wai. The referee broke the fight and issued Wai a gentan ichi for allegedly grabbing. Wai valiantly tried to save his fight by kicking his

Tournament officials and winners

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All Japan Open November 2007

opponent around the tatami and coming close with some Jodan kicks, but was beaten by the clock and had to bow out of the tournament. After his fantastic first round knockout, Kenny stepped on to the mat with some notoriety. Having watched his fellow fighters fall foul of the stringent refereeing, Kenny was forced to change his unique close range fighting style in order to eradicate the possibility of being penalised for pushing or grabbing. Kenny made a sprightly start by bouncing round the mat picking off some hard low kicks and punches. As his opponent closed the gap Kenny resorted to flurries of punches to avoid getting into a clinch. He continued to dominate the fight against his cagey opponent. With moments to spare, the referee again stopped the fight after spotting an infringement by Kenny and penalised him with a gentan ichi. There was a huge sense of injustice with this decision as it appeared that Kenny had merely parried a punch, and had now been denied a place in the quarter finals. With the three British fighters out of the competition, I sat down to enjoy the rest of the tournament. To my surprise the refereeing had now become much more relaxed, because fighters went unpunished for blatant grabbing and holding. As the tournament whittled down, the calibre of fighters became clear and the final four were of a very high standard. However, I feel the tournament had been robbed by not having seen the BKK fighters pit their skills against them. The end of a frustrating day for the British contingent ended on a high note as an IFKK representative approached the trio and informed Miguel that he had won the tameshawari title and that Kenny had won the best Knockout award for his awesome ushro mawashi geri in the first round.

Trophy presentations

Miguel Fernandez

Results 1. Masaya Ichikawa (JPN) 2. Makoto Funasaki (JPN) 3. Yusuke Fujii (JPN) Tameshawari Miguel Fernandez (GBR) 26 boards Best Knockout Kenny Jarvis (GBR) 20

Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

Kenny Jarvis (r)

Wai Cheung

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Regional Knockdown Tournament 2008

Photos: sportshotphotography.co.uk

The British Karate Kyokushinkai’s Open Regional Knockdown Tournament was held at the Rivermead Leisure Centre, Reading on Saturday 21st June 2008. A great turnout of fighters and spectators and we saw some spectacular fighting with great determination and spirit. My sincere gratitude to our fighters, table officials, referees, under Shihan Alex Kerrigan, our Medical Team, under John Hunt, and to Moss Ageli who arranged, as ever, the trophies for the tournament. A special mention to the fighters from Scotland Senshin Do Karate - who continue to support us at every event as do fighters from the Irish Karate Kyokushinkai. Opening Ceremony

Novice Men’s Lightweight 1st Robert Tagg (Westcroft) 2nd Dale Evans (Roath) 3rd Joynal Miah (Bethnal Green) 3rd Craig Thomas (Melton) Novice Men’s Middleweight 1st Wayne Sheridan (Westcroft) 2nd Tim Diacon (Bethnal Green) 3rd James Hunt (Dunmow) 3rd Vic Kazpukonic (Bethnal Green) Novice Men’s Heavyweight 1st Sam Hunt (Wimbeldon) 2nd Alan McCoy (IKK) 3rd Simon Marcus Caines (Roath) 3rd Dariusz Wietecha (Oldham)

Tom Silver (l) and Malcolm Scott

Wai Cheung

Regional Women’s Lightweight 1st Emma Markwell (BKK Wimbeldon) 2nd Petra Markova (BKK Crystal Palace) 3rd Lucy Wilson (BKK Hastings & Bexhill) 4th Cryatelle Badoil (BKK Dunmow) Regional Women’s Heavyweight 1st Lia Howlett (BKK Dunmow) 2nd Kelly Balmer (BKK Crystal Palace) 3rd Lorraine Garnis (BKK Hastings & Bexhill)

Darren Stringer (l)

Regional Men’s Middleweight 1st Wai Cheung (BKK Crystal palace) 2nd Darren Stringer (BKK Crawley) 3rd Darren Chan (BKK Bethnal Green) 3rd Simon Kuryechev (BKK Crystal Palace) Regional Men’s Heavyweight 1st Malcolm Scott (BKK Gravesend) 2nd Tamas Takacs (BKK Crawley) 3rd Said Hossini (BKK Roath) 3rd Tom Silver (BKK Crawley) Spirited Fighter Award Darren Stringer (BKK Crawley) Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

Said Hossini (l) and Malcolm Scott

Sam Hunt (r)

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MILTON KEYNES KYOKUSHINKAI KARATE Milton Keynes dojo instructors and students wish the BKK success at K2 Crawleyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;The New Home for The National Knockdown Tournament Dojo: Activities Centre, Porchester Close, Far Bletchley, Milton Keynes, MK3 6BH Dojo Operator & Chief Instructor: Sensei Martin Okeleke (4th Dan) Contact: Sensei Moss Ageli (3rd Dan) Telephone: 01908 660322 ~ Mobile: 07703 660322 Email: moss@sabtina.powernet.co.uk 22

National Kata Tournament 2008

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Junior Red Belts 1st Ellie Edwards (Ynysybwl) 2nd Charlotte Wakefield (Caerphilly) 3rd Dylan Vinning (Ynysybwl) Junior Blue Belts 1st Lauren Allan (Mountain Ash) 2nd Oliver March (Hastings/Bexhill) 3rd Harry Edwards (Ynysybwl) Junior Yellow Belts 1st Micheala Sheehan (Ynysybwl) 2nd Todd Carr-Williams (Hastings/Bexhill) 3rd Stephanie Williams (Cardiff) Junior Green Belts 1st Rachael Door (Mountain Ash) 2nd Haley Rowlands (Cardiff) 3rd Iwan Griffiths (Mountain Ash)

Darren Stringer

Junior Brown Belts 1st Laura-Beth Harman (Mountain Ash) 2nd Nathan Williams (Cardiff) 3rd Jessica Bond (Gravesend) Junior Black Belts 1st Anna Roohi (Chelmsford) 2nd Laura Picot (Wimbledon) 3rd Jack Stoddart (Chelmsford) Red Belts – Senior Women 1st Pippa George (Kokoro) 2nd Maria Bermudes (Westcroft) 3rd Gaynor Finnegan (Staines Tigers)

Stephen Davies

Green Belts – Senior Women 1st Siriol Thomas (Ynysybwl) 2nd Kate Godsell (West Hill) 3rd Pandora Christie (Leyton)

Black Belts – Senior Men 1st Darren Stringer (Crawley) 2nd Charlie Vines (Crawley) 3rd Anil Tailor (Loughborough)

Green Belts – Senior Men 1st Gareth Lloyd (Chelmsford) 2nd Mark Corcoran (Sevenoaks) 3rd Henry Duffy (Kings College)

Junior Low Grade Team 1st Mountain Ash 2nd Ynysybwl 3rd Crawley

Brown Belts – Senior Women 1st Lucy Cross (Mountain Ash) 2nd Lisa Heath (Mountain Ash) 3rd Francesca Morreale (Westcroft)

Junior High Grade Team 1st Cardiff 2nd Newbury Park 3rd Chelmsford

Yellow Belts – Senior Women 1st Anna Papinska (Westcroft) 2nd Clare Trebes (Westcroft)

Brown Belts – Senior Men 1st Simon Matthews (Mountain Ash) 2nd Robert Tagg (Westcroft) 3rd Thomas Bailey (Mountain Ash)

Senior Low Grade Team 1st Dunmow 2nd Kings College 3rd Chelmsford

Yellow Belts – Senior Men 1st Robert Wheeldon (Crystal Palace) 2nd James Hunt (Dunmow) 3rd Henryk Jakubiak (Crystal Palace)

Black Belts – Senior Women 1st Dolores Jaros (Switzerland) 2nd Emma Markwell (Wimbledon) 3rd Lucy Wilson (Hastings/Bexhill)

Senior High Grade Team 1st Switzerland 2nd Mountain Ash 3rd Crawley

Red Belts – Senior Men 1st Miroslaw Nowak (Leyton) 2nd James Eccleston (Kokoro) 3rd Colin Johnson (Gravesend) Blue Belts – Senior Women 1st Cally Pycroft (Melton Mowbray) 2nd Neile Bermudes (Westcroft) Blue Belts – Senior Men 1st William Rurton (Kings College) 2nd Daniel Renner (Hastings/Bexhill) 3rd Simon Wakefield (Caerphilly)

Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

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National Kata Tournament

Swiss Squad with Hanshi

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IKK 30th Anniversary

Irish Karate Kyokushinkai (1978 - 2008) The Irish Karate Kyokushinkai celebrates its 30th Anniversary this year and Shane Lalor (4th Dan) gives an overview of the past thirty years.The IKK has had a special relationship with the BKK for many decades and incidentally was the co-founder member country of the International Federation of Karate with the British Karate Kyokushinkai. IKK 30th Anniversary To sum up the history of an organisation within the confines of a magazine such as this is practically an impossible task. By the time this article is printed I will have started it many times over and rejected many drafts and approaches. At best we can give momentary clarity to long forgotten training sessions and at worst merely a list of events and people of the past thirty years. I hope that what is presented here falls somewhere between these two poles. Dojos As in any other organization ours is a collection of dojos across the country. Each dojo has its own story and characters and it is these that make up the foundation of the IKK. Sadly some clubs have come and gone, as have their instructors. We have many good clubs from our oldest established club in the suburb of Killester in Dublin, which has been running for almost twenty five years, through to Mullingar which is rapidly approaching its tenth birthday in the centre of the country, and our newest club in Swords in north County Dublin which was only set up in 2007. People The first dojo was opened by Gerry O’Sullivan back in 1978. After a few years Gerry’s situation changed and he was no longer able to devote his time to travelling from County Cork where he lived to Dublin once a week to teach (this is a ten hour round trip). The decision was made for Kevin Callan to take over as a Brown belt as he had been with the IKK from the start. It is difficult enough to assist at teaching in an established dojo but to take over an entire organization at brown belt would be a daunting task. Undeterred Kevin persevered in the role of Chief Instructor and three decades later he is now Shihan Kevin with a successful organization behind him. Back in the early 1980s several Dan grades from the BKK came to Ireland for a tournament. Amongst these was (then) Sensei Liam Keaveney who is originally from Ireland. He began to make regular trips over taking gradings and courses. At this stage there were no Dan grades training Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

in Ireland so to have a Sandan coming over was a big deal for us. Over time Sensei Liam became Shihan Liam and he took on the role of Life President of the IKK. The number of Dan grades is not necessarily the measure of an organization but looking back on the Dan grades roll of the last thirty years reveals that we have 29 Shodans, 11 Nidans, 5 Sandans, 2 Yondans, a Godan and a Rokudan. Achievements The IKK is not and never has been a large organization but has had success on many levels nonetheless. In 1988 we sent a team to the Women’s European clicker tournament in Stuttgart, Germany. Despite perhaps not being as technical as some other countries our fighting spirit and work ethic was unmatched and we returned as European Champions beating far more established countries in the process. An annual clicker tournament is held at alternating venues around the country each year. Many of our older members will have fond memories of our summer camps from the 1990s. We regularly send fighters to knockdown tournaments in Britain, and since 1992 we have only once returned from a tournament without a trophy and that’s a pretty good record. We have had fighters represent us in World Tournaments from our time with the IKO through to the IFK in both Knockdown and Kata. Juniors As I already mentioned we hold and annual clicker tournament. This has served as good preparation for our Junior fighters for their international careers. In 2005 we were invited to participate in the Severn Challenge in England. Since then we have sent a team and individuals to the event in each of the following years. In 2006 we sent a team to the First Junior World Tournament in Switzerland. We took 3rd place in the girls individuals and 3rd place in the team event. This year we sent another team to the 2nd Junior World Tournament in Berlin. This time we took two 3rd places in the girls individuals and again took third place in the team event cementing our place in the top three of the Clicker world.

Shane Lalor (4th Dan) and Kevin Callan (5th Dan)

The IKK, the BKK and the IFK The IKK has always had a close relationship with the BKK over the course of our history. When the BKK resigned its membership of the IKO in 1991 there was no hesitation on our part. We left too and helped found the IFK in 1992. Due to our small membership we haven’t held many knockdown tournaments here so we have always travelled to Britain to compete in the Regional and National tournaments with varying success. We have had many BKK Dan grades take courses over here. Hanshi, Shihan Liam Keaveney, Shihan Roy Banton, Shihan Graham Warden, Shihan Jeff Whybrow, Shihan David Pickthal, Sensei Reg Winkworth, Sensei Andrew Turner have all visited us. We are proud of our membership of the IFK and yet despite our size and financial limitations we have attended many international events in the last number of years including the Black belt courses in Switzerland as well as Junior and Senior tournaments in England, Wales, Switzerland, Belgium, Poland and Germany. The Future In the short term future we will hold an event to celebrate our anniversary and follow this with entering fighters at the British open at K2 in October. And what about the longer term future? Hopefully we will continue to grow while maintaining the standards that have already been set in the last thirty years. We look forward to the World Kata Tournament in Switzerland in 2010 and any other events on the IFK calendar. Come what may we will face it as we have faced each event and obstacle of the past, with a fighting spirit for which the Irish are famous worldwide. www.bkk-uk.com

Summer Camp 2008

Report: Lia Howlett, Photos: Michael Keaveney

Another summer camp has been and gone and when friends ask me how it was all I can think of to describe it is ‘wow’ and giggle to myself remembering some of the moments. Oh, the Summer Camp 2008!!!!! Don’t know where to begin! Let’s start at the beginning I suppose: This is the second year when the Summer Camp took place at Felsted School. I arrived early to find Shihan Maria da Costa and Sensei Stuart Wright ready to receive the participants. After quickly settling in I tried to help show the girls and the ladies into their accommodation. It was nice meeting people as they came in – everyone was happy and excited and almost everyone was wondering out loud when the night training would happen. At lunch there was another opportunity to catch up with people – some of them I haven’t seen in years! Hanshi didn’t waste any time when it came to teaching – from the very first session on the Wednesday afternoon he went into new stretching routines and new ways of doing push ups and sit ups. And somehow it’s never something that requires less effort than previous versions! We were shown new ways to play with kihon and there had also been some emphasis on street fighting techniques. Working with a partner, switching between clicker, knock down and street fighting got my brain quickly working at all levels. Thursday Thursday morning started at 6.30. I was trying to tell myself that it could have been worse – it could have been 5.30 or 6.00, but I still felt reluctant to leave my bed. Hanshi did a quick warm up and then we split up. The people interested in knock down training went off to the large sports hall where an hour of circuit training would happen under the watchful eyes of Shihan David Pickthall and Shihan Nick da Costa. The rest of the camp stayed outside in the rising sun training with Hanshi and Shihan Liam Keaveney. Unlike last year when, besides the squad, there were very few other people attending the knock down session, this year the number of people put the two Shihans in a bit of difficulty as they tried to organise the groups so that everyone got the maximum out of their workout. The number of people focusing on knockdown at the summer camp had been overwhelming – and they stuck with it for the length of the camp. It was inspiring to see so many people pushing themselves and each other. It was just fantastic! Thursday during the day, while a few hopefuls went through the usually gruesome grading, the rest of the camp worked on knockdown again with Shihan Nick and Shihan David. The weather turned on us during the afternoon and we all had to dash for cover just after the warm up. But luckily we did have a hall ready and we worked hard to dry the rain off our gis and then get them sweaty. Technique, combinations and resistance training were the focus of the Thursday sessions. Blocking, moving, positioning, distance, countering, timing, twisting, generating power, speed, good technique … so many things to think about when performing just a one three-technique combination. But we had the chance to do them again and again and to try and experiment with little changes and variations. 26

Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

Senior Camp Members and Instructors

Thursday evening we had our first ‘treat’ – Hanshi’s talk on kata – this year focus – Seienchin, the importance of slow movements and Tai Ki and how these link into the bigger picture of karate. And of course Thursday night we had our first ‘punishment’ – the night training! So eagerly awaited (more in terms of getting it over with, rather than relishing it) the night training took place at 1.30 am. Unlike other years, this year we were told in advance to be ready and in the hall by 1.30 am. Though part of me was happy to skip the loud knock on the door in the middle of the night and the shouting down the corridor, reminiscent of some ninja invasion alarm in a 70s movie, another part of me wished I didn’t know and could just sleep up to that point. The night sessions were short though (no, this is not a complaint!) – one hour of kicks – went through all of them from 10kyu to Nidan – some of them more than the allocated 3 or 6 sets. I can never make up my mind what’s worse on the night sessions: the bright lights, the people screaming their little, tired lungs out in an enclosed space or the fact that I am sweating buckets waving my arms (or, this year, my legs) about in an

unfashionable manner while my brain keeps telling me it wants to sleep. But nothing lasts forever and before I knew it we were heading back to bed feeling rather tired and wondering how some people can go out every night till the early hours of the morning dancing and drinking. Friday The Friday morning training took place as usual – with a slightly more tired bunch – but willing to push themselves and each other equally hard. And, to top it all off, Hanshi announced another night session heading our way on Friday night. I was hoping he was joking and looked very hard to see if he was smiling but he wasn’t. Two nights in a row! That’s tough! The day sessions on Friday covered knock down, clicker and kata – the groups were split and rotated between Shihans. I will stop a bit on Shihan Liam’s kata session. He did condense a 3 hr (or more?) session into his allocated 20-25 minutes. He focused on Sanchin no kata and Sanchin Dachi itself. I will not describe the session as it wouldn’t do it justice but suffice to say that the biggest bloke in the group had to suffer for us all to understand the efficiency and www.bkk-uk.com

Summer Camp 2008

usefulness of the stance and we left the session at the end talking about it (or elements of it) and the conversations kept going over dinner. It’s always good, I think, when you leave a session having more questions than when you started, especially when those questions will lead to research and learning new things. If this was Shihan’s secret mission, he has indeed succeeded in achieving it! The second half of the Friday afternoon session was moved into the pool. Oh, yes! But if you think we were there to just paddle about you are mistaken as Hanshi took full advantage of the hour we had (and the half he had added on top) to go through a decent amount of kihon. Friday evening we were in for our second ‘treat’ – Sensei Moss prepared a thorough, well documented presentation on the history of the sword in Japan. Live exhibits were present and even a demonstration from Sensei Moss. And Hanshi had a surprise for us as well – no night training that night! Everyone was relieved (we were too tired to be happy)! Saturday It’s Saturday morning already! This is it! The light at the end of the tunnel, the day of ‘lasts’ – last early morning session, last morning sessions and last session of the

camp. There is something about Saturdays. Maybe it’s the fact that I know the end is so near, maybe it’s the fact that I’m starting to get used to the new lifestyle or maybe it’s just the good night sleep I had the night before, I don’t know, but on Saturday I am full of energy. Last early morning session – as many people as ever turned up and hard training was on. By now we knew what we had to do and we just focused on the how to get the most out of it. The early morning sessions proved very popular with everyone and people were desperate for a copy of the circuit exercises. I wonder how many people in the dojos across the country (and international) are cursing the day their instructors and/or students went to camp. The mid morning session followed the same pattern as the previous day with the camp being split into groups doing knock down, clicker and kata to ensure everyone had a go and tried all the different things available. This was done, of course, after Hanshi’s relaxation work that always has me crying with laughter. It is a very effective session and very well timed as by then my legs are as tired as they can be – I am always looking forward to it. And of course, as per expected, the last sessions of the camp – pad work and fighting. It was one of the two sessions

(together with the Wednesday afternoon opening session) where the juniors have joined us – working in the same rhythm and following the same count and even giving us a good run for our money when it came to kiai! At the end of the session we all went into the main hall for the grading results, the Sandan kata display (which is always great to watch) and the official closing of the camp. I think this year’s camp was the best one I have ever attended. And the other karateka seem to agree. There were not much short of 150 participants with quite a few people coming from abroad – the Netherlands, Greece, Norway, Ireland and even all the way from Argentina and they were all happy they made the trip. The training was great but there’s more to summer camp than just training. Meeting new people and seeing old friends is also a very appealing part of it even if it seems that time shrinks and there isn’t enough of it to really talk to everybody. There’s also all the fun that comes from living in close quarters with people, the running around to make it to session on time, the feather, the forfeits, the ‘getting away with it’ (not saying what!) and, of course, the singing ABBA songs till midnight (don’t ask! Just be glad you weren’t there! It’s been hard work, great fun and I am looking forward to next years already!

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Summer Camp 2008

Dave Dyas

Tor Rune Vatland (Norway)

Antonio De Gracia (Holland)

Hanshi & Liam Keaveney

Del Lowers

Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

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Janet and Michael Dyas

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Summer Camp 2008

Moss Ageli

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The Second Yamburg Cup

The Second ‘Yamburg Cup’

Article: David Pickthall (5th Dan)

Gazprom, the sponsors of this bi-annual event, moved it from Yamburg in the Arctic Circle to Novey Urengoy and paid for all our travel and accommodation. It was a very well run and professional event. Twelve countries participated, mainly from the IFK, but there were also competitors from Shinkyokushin Kyrgistan and IKO1 Lightweight Division The lightweights were first on with the “technican” of the tournament, Almazbek, taking only twenty seconds to dispatch his Uzbekistan opponent. The Shinkyokushin fighter knocked out Buranov with a left leg chudan mawashi followed by a left tobi ushiro mawashi combination which set the tone for the day. The 2006 Russian favourite, Alexander Afanasiev, was next and cruised to victory in the first round against the Belorussian to set up a last eight clash with the Bulgarian Venev. The 2004 British champion, Kostenko, came through a tough scrap with Mozzherin of Kazakstan to set up a fight against the winner of Almazbek and Alan Shnawa GB. In an interesting first round, the Krygistan fighter from Shinkyokushin threw a lot of chudan mawashis and knees, but Shnawa countered well and almost caught the Shin fighter with an excellent roll kick. Half way through the second round, with nothing between them, Almazbek floored Shnawa with a lightning jodan mawashi to gain an ippon. The bottom half of the draw saw the Russian, Evgeniy Solomennikov, defeat Akhmedov of Uzbekistan with a waza ari and Roberto Proost Begium defeat his Turkmenistan opponent in three rounds. Late into the second round, Crawley’s Darren Stringer beat Kasimov Krygistan by a disqualification. Stringer was on top, punishing the Shinkyokushin fighter’s back leg with low kicks. Finally the Belorussian Bortnik beat Chitanava from Azerbaijan. The quarter finals saw Afanasiev beat Venev, and Kostenko come through a battle with Almazbek who proved he was not just a technician with a gutsy display, losing in three rounds. Proost lost in four minutes to Solomenikov and Stringer eased into the semis with a one round decision.The Tameshiwari was next with all four fighters failing the different breaks, possibly because the stands holding the wood were too high. Afanasiev was the best with eleven boards in three breaks.The first semi was a token effort with Kostenko folding to an innocuous technique thus giving Afansiev a passage.Bout two was a tense affair with Stringer not being able to make a dent in Solomenikov and the Russian went through on boards.In third place, the now refreshed Kostenko took the fight to Stringer who moved and countered well. As the bout went through to the second Kostenko hit Stringer three times in the throat or face, thereby incurring a genten warning and at the end of the round Stringer won by a majority decision.With two Russians in the final, Afanasiev pulled out giving victory to Solomenikov. 1st Evgeniy Solomennikov Russia 2nd Alexander Afanasiev Russia 3rd Darren Stringer Great Britain 4th Vladimir Kostenko Russia Middleweight Division The Middleweight saw Sergi Malutin of Krygistan IKO1 defeat his Belorussian opponent. Olusegun Odunukan GB had a tough scrap with Andrey Borisov of Russia losing on a split decision after six minutes. The other first round preliminaries saw two six minute decisions won by Hristov Bulgaria and Fanil Mazhitov beating the game Kazak fighter Odintsov. The fastest knock out of the day was won by Philippe De Puydt in about six seconds against his Ukranian opponent with a gyaku tsuki. The last eight Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

Jubilant trophy winners

saw the 2004 World Cup winner Andrey Noskov from Russia lock horns with Malutin from Krygistan. After three grueling rounds, Malutin took a split decision to set up a semi final against Borisov who dropped the Bulgarian Stovanov with a chudan mawashi geri. Wai Cheung had to dig deep to defeat Hristov in six minutes and Mazhitov squeezed past the tenacious Belgium, DePuydt. In the Tameshiwari Cheung easily broke more than the rest with eleven boards. Borisov tore into the clearly injured Malutin and won within one round to win the first semi final. Cheung knew he only had to go to boards to win and worked strong punch and inside low kick combinations which seemed to hurt the Russian Mazhitov and, to his credit, he kept moving forward. At the end it seemed pretty even but three of the judges felt Mazhitov’s pressure was enough to secure a final placing. In what was probably the toughest scrap of the day, the third place fight off seesawed for four hard rounds. Malutin somehow managed to shake of his injuries to stand toe to toe with Cheung and in the third round seemed to gain control. Cheung, however, had other plans and came back with four and five punch combinations, finishing with a low kick each time to break Malutin’s resistance and take a unanimous judges decision. Cheung was awarded the trophy for the most spirited fighter and Malutin picked up the sponsor’s award. Once again the middleweight final was two Russians, but Mazhitov was in no condition to fight so Andrey Borisov took the title. 1st Andrey Borisov Russia 2nd Fanil Mazhitov Russia 3rd Wai Cheung Great Britain 4th Sergey Malutin Krygistan Heavyweight Division The Heavyweight category was a battle of big versus little with the 101 kg Russian Karshigeev mauling the Ukrainian Osyka. For a big man, the former Spanish Champion Sergey Pavlov, showed how well he could move, when, in close range, he skipped back and hit Ginda from Azerbaijan with a front hand shita tsuki dropping him for an ippon. The 80kg inexperienced Malyi from Ukraine showed

good resistance before folding to the vastly experienced and 30kg heavier former Russian, British and Dutch champion Alexander Ibragimov. The colossus 122kg Zhydko rushed at the former middleweight Stefan Hofer from Switzerland who, although giving away 37 kg, was dropped in forty seconds by low kicks thereby winning a waza ippon. Ibragimov was the best heavyweight in the Tameshirwari and won the trophy by breaking fourteen boards. Pavlov took full advantage of the fact that Karshigeev had damaged his hand in the Tameshirwari and kept his taller opponent at the wrong distance and used his leverage to secure a place in the final. Ibragimov then showed his class by winding Hofer with a body punch for a waza ari but Hofer didn’t give up and lasted the round before losing on the flags. Again there was a titanic struggle for third place with the huge Karshigeev 16 kg heavier and about 30cm taller doing all he could to knock Stefan Hofer out, but the Swiss fighter hung in until the last round where he took the fight to the Russian and stood toe to toe to the bell. The judges were split 2-2 and chief referee Shihan Andrey Bura gave the decision for Hofer. The final saw comrades and friends Sergey Pavlov and Alexander Ibragimov battle for four rounds with nothing between them and neither man getting on top for any length of time, but at the end the judges went for the workrate and footwork of Pavlov. 1st Sergey Pavlov Russia 2nd Alexander Ibragimov Russia 3rd Stefan Hofer Switzerland 4th Alexander Karshigeev Russia As a special feature of this tournament the podium finishers won gold as a prize with the 1st place receiving 250 grams, 2nd place 150 grams and 3rd place 100 grams. As a general impression, the tournament was run in a very professional way, the organisers working very hard to ensure its success. There were also a number of demonstrations by the local dojos’ children and an excellent fighting demo with weapons by Shihan Bura plus his Senseis of the Ekaterinburg Dojo culminating in a mass break. www.bkk-uk.com

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Successful Dojo

By Liam Keaveney (6th Dan)

For the few that ever open and run a club – the path is fraught with many obstacles, over many years if not decades. In those sometimes lonely evenings when you think – what’s gone wrong - as the number of students are less than expected, and hoped for – you ponder on the meaning of a successful dojo. I gave this some thought a few years ago when it was suggested that we, in the BKK, have a league table of dojos and award points for participation and success in BKK Tournaments.You would then, it was argued, see at a glance the success or otherwise of a dojo within the BKK. I was, and still am fundamentally against such a scheme as I think it overlooks the function and value of running a club and indeed the teaching of karate. To that end I tried to analyse what would, or rather could, be termed a “successful dojo” and that question itself raised more issues than I could find answers. I offer here just some personal viewpoints, which you may or may not agree with and I would be happy to hear your views – either way. Dojo What does the term dojo mean? Research will show that the term “dojo” is the Japanese pronunciation of the ancient Chinese word “Tao Chang” and comprises two characters “do” (way) and “jo” (place) – and the dojo was where people of learning would interpret the “way of the heavens”. Moving on within the classical Japanese framework the dojo is the place where one learns and follows a traditional art. It should be a place where not only physical skill can be taught and learnt but also where character can be developed and where moral and ethical teachings can be transmitted. In the dojo respect is earned and courtesy is a matter of course. A dojo in essence develops its own character and will in time develop its own spirit referred to as “kami”. A good dojo spirit is essential in the passing of knowledge. The development of the dojo spirit is based on austerity (shugyo) sincerity (seijin) and effort (kunren) and it goes without saying that within the dojo the observance of correct etiquette and ceremony and indeed respect is integral in creating an atmosphere that pushes students to see and obtain their maximum potential. A dojo can be anything therefore so long as certain principles are focused on. It can be a hall with 50 students or a class held in the park with two students. With this brief explanation we then concentrate on what would constitute a “successful” dojo. Numbers It is too easy, in the broadest sense, to say that if numbers are high then the dojo is successful. Generalisations are used at many levels – if we compare our own club with another dojo from a different organisation we say “well we could have many more students if we compromised our training and went softer” That gives us comfort sometimes in reasoning why perhaps we don’t have comparatively as many students as others. Wrong? Within our own organisation it is then a comparison too easily confused and affected by many forces. The dojo with sixty Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

Caption

or seventy students is termed “going well” when a club with maybe five, ten or fifteen students is termed “having a hard time”. I am afraid this is a simplistic and too general a view. Numbers are not in my view a standard indicator at all of what is or is not a successful club. It goes without saying that if your dojo is based within a city centre sports centre – the very fact of large “foot fall” through the centre will certainly ensure high numbers (and sometimes high turnover) compared to a dojo situated in an isolated village hall. Conversely the instructor may make a conscious decision to train at a certain venue (which in his or her view) is conducive to exact and specific requirements that he or she may aspire to and in doing so may limit the maximum number of students training at one time. This limitation on numbers ensures exact and specific teaching to a limited number of students of the highest quality. Whilst large numbers are a good if not great sign of success - let us not be put off by that factor alone as a sole indicator of success or otherwise. Tournament success? As BKK chairman (and a also dojo operator) I am sometimes overwhelmed by the sheer volume of events staged by the BKK and sometimes question our path. We have a

tournament nearly every month of the year in all our disciplines – we have courses, squad training and referee courses etc. In order to have any success at tournament level a great degree of preparation is required. In a dojo that trains perhaps only twice a week – this is very difficult- as well as trying to maintain and increase a student’s general karate training and knowledge. Too much emphasis and concentration on tournaments will inevitably lead to a decrease in the overall development of a student’s balanced training. If a dojo wins at a tournament then their profile is high within the organisation and correspondingly they are termed “successful”. This I suggest may not be a total and true reflection. In this day and age tournament success brings its own rewards to the student and dojo but we must look deeper to our training methods and aspirations and not totally use the tournament venue as a measure of success and advancement. There is also a held view that if dojos are not entering tournaments – then they are not supporting the BKK. Again this in my view is a distortion. It may well be that the profile of students, eg age, goals and aspirations and ability, prevent the desire to compete. Or indeed the belief that tournaments are not suitable – which in the purest sense of the martial arts is an accepted fact. We should www.bkk-uk.com

Successful Dojo

respect others views and aspirations even if we do not understand or accept them. I cannot emphasise enough that in the final analysis we will stand or fall eventually on the technical level and competence of our instructors and in turn our students. When all the trophies have been shelved and admired for the last time - what are or will we be left with? If we find ourselves in a situation where perhaps we are prevented from holding tournaments – this certainly maybe the case in our knockdown tournamentswhat then? There needs to be within every dojo the traditional training perspective and values taught in order that we maintain our standards and ensure our future as an organisation for generations to come. Tournaments are essential in some respects but should not become the focus and means of determining success. I have heard a few times over the past years “his or her dojo has not produced champions – so it cannot be that good a club”. This cannot be the mark of success of karate alone for many many reasons! This could in itself be the subject of an article on its own. Grading success? It goes without saying that the advancement of students through the grading system is a positive indicator as to the student’s progress, and generally it should be accepted that this fact can contribute to the dojos success at many levels. However there is a need to emphasise the issue that the goal of a dan grade (or indeed any grade) is not the destination but only a journey – and the premise is worth repeating that once the level of black belt is reached then the training, learning and teaching begin at a different level. I have currently about nine or ten black belts training regularly and in some ways they are now “beginners” taking their training and understanding to a greater level and depth. They have reached the first (not the last) step of a long climb to further levels of knowledge. What is the purpose of karate training? I suppose in order to establish “what is a successful dojo” we first need also to have common agreement as to what is the function of karate training. Kyokushin Karate is termed Budo Karate – but what really does that mean and signify, as we push into a new decade and a new century? Since Kyokushin has only been in existence for little more than fifty years this must be termed modern budo – and under this we could define as “ a form of physical exercise, method of self defence (for the individual) sport and spiritual training.” What is perhaps only clear is that Budo Karate, and not Sport Karate - a term now used for the karate based practice of having tournaments only in mind, and which is supported by current British Government bodies as being good 34

Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

for British Sport in general – and thus funding and support can be seen widespread to the exclusion of all else of perhaps greater value. This can be a difficult situation because with the Government bodies only recognising structure outside our domain – we could be seen as not being successful within British Sport. Notwithstanding this fact, karate training is important for a number of reasons that would mystify the Government bodies in the extreme. Training of the mind, body and spirit – must be an initial concept and the foundation of our training. Though this is a long and arduous process covering many decades, we may experience many things and discover more along the long road, including: humility, truth of technique (and of ourselves), self discipline, effort, harmony, respect, unselfishness, honour, loyalty, perseverance and courage. So in our journey of learning our kihon and kata (not forgetting our kumite) we have many lessons to learn which in essence can take a lifetime! Traditional Japanese budo recognises that there are three stages of learning: Shu, Ha and Ri. During the first stage the student following his instructor exactly and developing correct basic form in the execution of a technique. In the second stage the student (having learnt by rote the technique) now applies the technique to suit his or her abilities. In the final stage the student becomes completely spontaneous and the technique becomes a reflex. To achieve this end there must be a strong relationship with the instructor and student

and we can see that the Sensei /Kohai relationship is extremely important, and this in itself will alter adapt and expand over the decades finding harmony within the dojo. In the long term the objectives should be to perfecting technique and increasing knowledge and resultant ability. Students/instructors need to critically observe their progress and perfect it and strive for improvement – no matter how long they have trained. This process is called “ryomi” in Japan – this is an ongoing process of self evaluation and criticism, not necessarily particular to martial arts and can relate to other aims and aspirations in life. Economic factors have to be eliminated from the equation and the desire to teach and learn for a “lifetime” is a serious issue. Unfortunately, if the economic factors are not met instructors may be unable to financially support the running of a dojo. This situation from a superficial point is an indicator of survival and success. Having said all the above, the term should perhaps be “successful instructor” not “successful dojo” and the emphasis should be on teaching ability. Our desire to teach should not be structured on “numbers” alone – this can be done in small numbers and even one to one as in early times – but this will not be visible at courses, tournaments etc. There are many aspects that reflect a successful dojo and its instructor, and many of these indicators are not sometimes overtly visible or noticed outside the dojo, and even governing organisation. These indicators are completely overlooked and perhaps ignored totally.

Paul Travers (l) at World Tournament 2005

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Successful Dojo

Unless you are actually training at the dojo, you will have a preconceived idea of its “success” by looking at the number of students alone, which we may see as an indicator of success or otherwise – and how wrong that is. As an example - Hanshi over the last few years is quoting Kenichi Sawai Sensei – who was fundamental in his (and Sosai Oyama’s) teachings within Kyokushin in the 1950s and 1960s – this man was a remarkable teacher – however he had no dojo, he had no students (apart form those that turned up occasionally to train), he had no organisation – so from theout side looking in he was not a success at all! How wrong that statement is! Citing this fact alone should give us the motivation to look closer as to what constitutes a successful dojo. Conclusion Can the definition of a successful dojo be looked at in a different way and should we look at it in terms of being a “successful instructor” - as it is the instructor that generates the teaching process? Ultimately it is the ability and resourcefulness of the instructor that in turn reflects on his or her students. So is it arguable that a successful

dojo is one where the dojo instructor can give full and comprehensive teaching in all aspects of karate not specific to tournaments – although this is, in some degree, important for other reasons. But it is a fact that our own style made its reputation and popularity on the reputation of our World Knockdown Tournaments – so in some respects tournaments, in the broadest sense, are perhaps essential for specific reasons and goals. Also it should be remembered that organisations can be dependent on a structured and constant level of participation in Tournaments, Courses and Squads for other valid financial reasons – these could be to finance squads being sent abroad at International level for example. We can also add that success at tournaments, gradings and suchlike contribute to the success and personality of a dojo – but it is the other, sometimes immeasurable, factors that contribute to the dojo’s overall success. It’s the qualities given to the individual student, by the instructor, and these should include a cultivation of the mind, body and spirit. The student should be encouraged to strive for perfection – which in essence is

unattainable – but again it is the process that is important. Self discipline and effort also has an important part to play in the individuals’ and dojo’s success – the key to continual improvement lies in self discipline, and to surpass the boundaries of what would appear to be the limits of the mind and body. Having gone from the beginning to the end in a full circle the question still remains. What conclusion can we come to as what constitutes a “successful dojo”? In the final analysis each individual instructor and student will come up with different answers and we each have a right to do this. However these conclusions, can and will change as we continue to train though the decades. For me what stands out above everything else will be the cultivation of “mind, body and spirit”. We all have different ideals, ideas, aspirations and goals and dare I say in conclusion “all our lives through the discipline of karate we will seek to fulfil the true meaning of the Kyokushin Way” What ever that means to us as individuals whether we be a student or an instructor Osu.

Kokoro

“Right mind, right heart, right spirit”

Liam Keaveney (6th Dan) Dojo: Bishops House, Windhill, Bishops Stortford, Herts CM23 2NF (ten minutes from junction 8 of the M11) Monday and Wednesday 18.00 to 21.00 T: 01245 256891 E: liam.keaveney@btinternet.com

Proud to support the British Karate Kyokushinkai 35

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Kyokushin UK Limited: 58 Highfield Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 2NQ T 01245 256891 E liam.keaveney@btinternet.com

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Thank you for your support My sincere thanks to the many people that have helped to produce this magazine either directly or indirectly these include: Hanshi Steve Arneil, Alex Kerrigan, Colin Elias, Kristen Reinhart (Ingo and Finja) Shane and Jenny Lalor, Jo Merth, Nancy Hiscock, Jane Charman, Tony White, Neil and Alysse Madley, Darren Stringer, Stephen Davies, Keith Mayes, Jodie Hobbs, Dave and Pauline Barham David Pickthall, Ollie Potter, Leigh Kiss, Richard Carroll, Moss Ageli, Chris Seal, Lia Howlett Cathy O’Brien, Andrew Turner, Maria Da Costa, Dave Lund Regan, Alan and Julie Davies, Jared Wright, , Sunil Taylor, Lamine Darbouche David Jones, David Pickthall, Paul Varney, Alan Shnawa, Ray Bond, Ruth Hunt, and Michael Keaveney. Also to the individuals, Dojos and Companies that have supported us by sponsorship and advertising in this issue of the magazine: BAA, Teamframes Trade, Porter De Vere, Kyokushin4Life, Barber Sporting Enterprises, General Insurance Brokers (UK) PLC, Travis Perkins, Skillet, Advanced Firetec Ltd, Bonners, Pritchard Tankers Ltd, Reigate Carpet Centre,Woodland Homes,Valmec Lifts, SAMUK and Kyokushin UK Limited, Hastings and Bexhill Dojo, Milton Keynes Dojo, Dunmow Dojo, Northampton Dojo, Folkestone Dojo, Wimbledon Dojo, Roath Dojo, Crawley Dojo and Kokoro. Liam Keaveney (Editor)

National Knockdown Tournament 2007 – An Apology You will be aware that last year the British Karate Kyokushinkai was regrettably forced to cancel the 32nd Open National Knockdown Tournament. We were informed on the 17th September 2007 that Crystal Palace National Sports Centre was now closed and would remain closed until June 2008. This was due to serious construction problems within the building. Sadly Crystal Palace is, as I write, still closed. Unfortunately due to the short notice the British Karate Kyokushinkai had no alternative but to cancel the Open National Knockdown Tournament scheduled for Saturday 6th October 2007 as we were unable to find an alternative suitable venue at such short notice. We were deeply saddened that this action was necessary - especially with so Karate Kyokushin Magazine 2008

Caption

many people intending to attend the event from home and abroad. This year we have moved our National Knockdown Tournament to K2 Crawley – which will prove to be a suitable and exciting venue to re-

launch our National Tournament. I would like to thank the many people here today for your understanding and support and we hope that you will enjoy the day’s event as you have in the past Liam Keaveney, Chairman www.bkk-uk.com

Is Black Belt the End of the Journey

Is Black Belt the End of the Journey? Let us take a look at the path taken so far. No doubt we all have our own story on how and why we embarked on a journey to find the ‘Way’ and what drove us through the doors of a Dojo. An onlooker once questioned if any of us training were actually normal - did we all have some kind of dysfunctional background! After all, what normal person would take up a hobby where one pushes oneself physically and mentally through what feels like impossible and unachievable boundaries? Throughout training the student’s sights are set high on the honour of wearing a Black Belt. After the initial enthusiasm dwindles, he is faced with the realization that left far behind are the comforts of ‘normal’ life and that if the day is to dawn where he can stand proud in his Black Belt, the way forward requires dedication in the form of effort, study, frustration and pure hard work. Along his journey are pinnacle points of recognition in the form of coloured belts, each holding its own challenges with frustrating times to over come. Light is shed as newcomers enter the Dojo when he can start to map his progress to date, but the safety of a pure beginner he realizes has long since ebbed away. However, the path ahead to achieve shodan is still a long way off and is nothing short of an arduous process both physically and mentally. After the years of training, study, self searching

and development the time has come to prove his worth for that all precious Black Belt. What happens now? He already feels he has out performed his own expectations, given every ounce of effort possible and studied as hard as he can. The potential for boredom sets in, or even a level of arrogance, as he compares himself to others further down the line. Development slows and even plateaus, doubts start to creep in as to what value continuing the journey may hold - even the instructor appears apparently indifferent to his progress. It is at this point the Yudansha has to search his resolve and find sufficient self-actuation to persist if he is to push through and find himself entering new horizons and elevation to a new state of mind - this is known as Shugyo or austerity. Gyo pictograthing a ‘crossroad’ and Shu indicating delicate hair. In normal parlance Shu means ‘to practice’ or ‘encourage in study’ though etymologically it is to strike with delicate precision. At the Shugyo level of training the Yudansha finds himself at a mountainous crossroad. To give up the journey or consider it complete is surely a waste - the sights ahead holding precious rewards. He can see that the new journey ahead is requiring a new depth of understanding, better accuracy and an even more determined focus to be deliberate, precise and efficient with economy of movement.

By Jane Charman (1st Dan)

Jane Charman (c) with Jane Malyon (l) and Clare Fields - recent successful black belts

Shugyo is thought of as austere training - the path taken to overcome barriers. It is arduous. Shugyo is trying and exacting and will not allow him rest - once he has passed the crossroad Shugyo will become his only means by which to proceed on the ‘Way’. It is at this juncture that the he begins to reflect on his progress. He can now see that although he has learnt much, there is what seems a lifetime of learning still ahead. What he thought he could perform with relative effect can be honed and perfected further. Each Kata and string of techniques can all be restudied. His thought process defends, he questions, challenges and explores in order to achieve and strive for excellence. He can see now that the gaining of his Black Belt marks the start of the journey and in effect returns to white – albeit from a new starting point.

John Hunt and the British Red Cross wish the British Karate Kyokushinkai every success at K2 and their 32nd Open National Knockdown Tournament We are proud to support the BKK 38

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