Striking Post January 2018
Wow, 2018 ! A new year is upon us once again and it is time to take stock of the past year. Let`s take a look back at some of the highlights.
In May we had the visit of Soke Sensei and Higuchi Sensei. This clinic was well attended by Mukashi dojo and we were introduced to SHUSHI-NO-SHO and all new Kobujitsu (weapons) training.
In June we had the 15th edition of the Yarmouth Cup. Once again it was a very successful tournament featuring athletes from across Nova Scotia and some from New Brunswick. The weekend included a Provincial officials clinic as well as a kumite clinic on the Friday night. The Yarmouth Cup wrapped up at 5 pm and the Karate Nova Scotia awards banquet was held that evening at the Rodd Grand Hotel. A provincial team training was held for 2 hours on Sunday morning. The entire competition was live streamed and a 2 hour T.V. production was done by Eastlink T.V.
July saw us taking part at the ICKF-NS Summer Camp hosted by Bushino-Ki dojo. The primary instructors were German Sensei and myself. The camp was a success and all the proceeds were given to the Soke Cup fund.
In August we travelled to Kumamoto, Japan, for the 13th Soke Cup. For the six members that went it was a trip of a lifetime. We got to do a bit of sightseeing and experience the culture of Japan first hand. Many new friendships were formed with members of the Chito-ryu family worldwide. Champions were crowned and I was successful in grading to RENSHI. For me personally, it was the best Japan trip yet and I could not have been more proud of the entire group that went.
In November we celebrated 40 years as a dojo and we were honored by the presence of Paulette Landry Sensei. She is the founder and first Sensei of our dojo and we got to thank her for having given us the opportunity to train in Chito-ryu karate. We held a clinic and had a banquet in Landry Sensei`s honor.
Overall it was a phenomenal year. Thanks to everyone for their hard work. I know that we also went through some difficult times and I want to thank the membership, especially the senior ranks, for sticking by me and supporting me during those hard times. I really appreciate it.
I am looking forward to what 2018 will bring but let us keep in mind that to the serious karate-kas what is important is what happens at the dojo. The training is the most important thing. The other things will fall in place if we look after our training. I wish you all good health, happiness and many hours training in the dojo for 2018.
Gambatte,
Milton Bourque Go-dan/ Renshi