Winter Camp 2013

Winter Camp 2013

By Kris Erickson

Osu,

Winter Camp this year took on a significantly different meaning as a dan candidate.  Leading up to the camp I felt a responsibility to ensure I was well prepared and to perform well as I knew there would be many eyes observing me, thankfully I had the support of many Sempai’s and Kohai’s who provided knowledge and helped quiz me along the way.

Arriving on Friday there were many familiar faces, placing me instantly at ease.  My focus this year was to improve my technical knowledge and teaching abilities, as my role in the dojo and personal goals have slowly been shifting from kumite training to a greater leadership and instructional role.  The change in focus has coincided well with my preparation for dan testing as it has made me reflect on my knowledge and re-establish what Sosai referred to as the beginner’s mind, opening my view on the purpose of training and the endless possibilities that lay forth.

Training sessions over the weekend focused on advanced kata, kumite training, and goshin jitsu.  Kata training upstairs was led by Shihan Don where we focused solely on Seipai.  In training we rarely spend so much time on one kata, preferring to run through many katas in a short amount of time.  This focus allowed me to learn and break down the kata in much greater detail, and Shihan Don’s instruction on tempo, power and breathing drove home the point that kata should be performed with spirit and energy, making the observer feel like there is an actual opponent that the kata practitioner is facing.

Kumite training was led by Sensei Dean and Sensei Brad, two former Canadian fighters with years of competition and teaching experience.  Having had the chance to train at Sensei Dean’s dojo in Port Coquitlam and years ago watch him prepare for tournaments with Sensei Tats at the old Richmond East dojo I always look forward to a physically grueling and high tempo, fun training session.  I also have had the chance to learn from Sensei Brad at previous camps and at the Western Canada training sessions for the last World Tournament.  His attention to detail in stance and movement in kumite coupled with intensity always make for an inspiring training session.  I also had the chance to train with some of the junior students and was impressed with the skill and stamina of our upcoming Canadian competitors.

The goshin jitsu sessions were led by Shihan Don were excellent.  Building on the teachings of Sosai Oyama and Shihan Lowe, you are able to feel a connection to the past,  and  bridging the gap to the future.  I have had the privilege on several opportunities to take part in Shihan Don’s seminars and his knowledge and experience in this field is second to none.   Through my training in martial arts and schooling in human kinetics I am keenly interested in movement and how we can use opposing forces, leverage and physics to control and subdue an opponent.  Shihan Don was able to demonstrate these principles in simple and effective terms allowing all to understand and apply these concepts.

Winter Camp culminated in Dan testing and board breaking, with a few surprises along the way.  Studying hard with my dojo mates testing this year the cabins were full of banter on Kyokushin history, technique and terminology.  The look of bewilderment as we commenced our written exams was priceless.  All I can say is that when looking through a narrow scope it is easy to be lead down a certain path without seeing the greater picture.  Finishing the exam I am reminded that there is a much broader spectrum of knowledge that is equally important to becoming a shodan.  Board breaking is always a highlight at Winter Camp as dan candidates get to show their skill and prowess in the tradition of tamashiwara.  I have had opportunities in demonstrations and tournaments to try my hand at board breaking and always enjoy the challenge.  My goal was to break cleanly with good stance and poise while pushing myself by using jodan mawashi geri for 2 boards, something I have never attempted.  Luckily everything went well and all candidates broke cleanly and made it through.  A big relief for us all that the first of the requirements are completed.

I hope now to take the knowledge I have gained back to the dojo and incorporate it into our training.  The gem of the weekend was Juji kata, as explained by Shihan Stuart.  Speaking with Shihan Stuart, he explained the history of how Sensei Shigeru Oyama used the kata to regularly train his students but that these trainings have disappeared over the years.  An excellent way to challenge the mind-body relationship, Juji kata can be added on to with as many techniques as you can imagine, making it a excellent tool for beginners and experts alike.

I would like to thank our instructors and the IKOK-C for another excellent camp and opportunity for Kyokushin to grow in Canada.

Osu,

Kris Erickson.

 

This winter camp was the warmest I can remember.  It only went to just below zero degrees for the 6 am training.  I did rather enjoy getting out in the field in the pitch black and slowly watching as the day got brighter.  Heading back inside and seeing the sun rise while practicing seipai.

Despite my super high anxiety level over the grading events for the weekend I found it to be one of the most enjoyable camps yet.  The instruction was excellent, the variety but consistency in the training was well received by all.

I learned a lot this weekend, not just about the physical part of karate, ido geko and alterations to make it more challenging but still very simple basics.  But also about the organization itself and how there is a very large part of our organization that I had not paid much attention to before.

It was a very eye opening experience that got me thinking about the history of the IKOKC.  I know the information is available but it is not something that we emphasize nearly to the degree that we do the history of Kyokushin or Mas Oyama in general.  This is something that i will be challenging my students to become more aware of as well.

This weekend there were a number of occasions where instructors would break into stories of events past, to either emphasize or relate ideas they were taking about.  I started thinking that it may be of great benefit to our IKOKC members if there were a video documentary about the history of the IKOKC, some explanations of the way it works and interviews with some of the people that have been there along the way.

Over all I learned many things this weekend but the top two things that I got out of this experience is that the background running of the organization is something that everyone in it needs to be aware of, otherwise how will it survive.  And the other is how to take simple ido geko and make it more challenging just by adding different ways of turning.

Osu,
Scott Somers
South Delta Kyokushin Karate

Winter Camp 2013 was a great learning experience in more than one way, which I think most of the potential Dan candidates will attest to.

The weather started out spring like, but eventually turned more seasonal.  The different climate conditions, and the hardiness of the trainings offered by Kyokushin really shows people what we're made of!

I really enjoy the Ido Geiko especially when it makes you think and then you get totally lost!  It's nice to see someone, Sensei Dean, execute it flawlessly.  Kind of gives you something to strive for.  On the other hand it's nice to know something that not everyone else knows.

The written exam, well that goes without saying, but the breaking was exciting and a little nerve racking, but all went well.

The food was very nice and I got to meet some nice new people.

Isn't that what camps are all about?

Greg Creech

Osu!
The 2013 IKOK-C Winter Camp has come and gone, but the memories are ever lasting in my mind. As a dan candidate this year, completing my requirements was never far from my thoughts. Board breaking, written test and the interview.

Kime (Focus) was key for me this year.

6 boards with 3 techniques. I've practised this combination in the dojo a few times to ensure I could successfully complete. Shihan let us pick our own boards, I wasn't too picky just grabbed my 6 and sat back down. As the other candidates completed their breaks it was my turn. Once I set my first 2 boards on the bricks it was game on! I was successful on all 3 techniques and my focus was intense. I couldn’t tell you who was holding or if anyone else was even in the room..... “Kime”

The written portion weighed heavily on my mind as there is such a wide array of potential questions. I studied for hours and hours prior to the exam. Studied on the drive to camp and even in my bunk between training, as did many other candidates. To add fuel to the fire Shihan told us he re-wrote the exams. I won't spoil any fun for the upcoming candidates, but I will say the exam was an eye opener. It taught me to re-exam my position and responsibility to this amazing organization! I will now shift my focus.... “Kime”

The oh so scary interview! This is where focus was most important, with many... many of my peers watching and listening to my every word. I focused solely on Shihan and answered with honesty. I guess there is not much more you can do then that! .... “Kime”

The Camp was a great success for all the participants! The instruction was topnotch. Shihan Stuart brought us some new Ido Geiko which was challenging as always. Shihan Don taught several classes of Kata and Goshin Jitsu, his knowledge seems endless. Sensei Larry put a fantastic twist on happo.

One of my favourite classes was with Sensei Brad and Sensei Dean, breaking down Seipai kata to it's finest details with such patience and passion.

The meals were great, accommodations were comfortable and the company even better!

I think all the candidates are forming a special bond as we venture through this life changing adventure.

I wish you all the best of luck, and look forward to seeing you soon!

Osu,
Jim lindsay
Stony Plain Dojo

Winter Camp 2013, was something I looked forward to and dreaded at the same time!

I always enjoy the interaction with my peers; reconnecting with old friends, the pace of the training and the variety of things we learn. This year was no different.

I am very excited about the many different ways of teaching basics that we will definitely be bringing back to Banff to use on a regular basis.

As a 2013 Dan Candidate the dread part consisted of the pressure I put on myself to be successful in my board breaking, as well as the written test and the interview.

In the end I needn't have worried so much about the breaking as I broke just as I had envisioned doing.  The emotional pressure I put on myself of the written exam and interview were really unnecessary and I learned a lot about me in the process.

Primarily that I need to "get a grip" HA!  As always I appreciate my Kyokushin family and what is afforded to me by the opportunities for training, camaraderie and hard work.

Osu,

Julie Pecsi Miller

Banff Dojo

Osu

I arrived early to winter camp, but being a Dan candidate, as with the other Dan candidates arriving, the journey to this winter camp began a long time ago.

The training and instruction at camp was excellent as always. In fact the training was a time of relief as it took my mind off the looming written test and interview. Training with Shihan Don on Seipai was very informative. We learned cadence and stance transition. But, unfortunately none of the Dan candidates were able to make it to the final round of the head to head kata competition. (Those high kicking girls!)

Goshin-jitsu was taught by Shihan Don and Sensei Larry. With the mats out we all got to practice our break falls. We were instructed in many different techniques as well as the Happo. Shihan and Sensei were repeating the same theme: basics, basics, then after everything was done, a little more basics.

Shihan Stuart reintroduced an old training kata called jiju kata. I had seen it before. Shihan said that it was great tool to train your mind while doing the basics. Basics, basics hmm... basics, where have I heard that before. This kata is also a way for some people to make basics look very complicated.

The written test showed the Dan candidates the nuances of the big picture. A picture we so often take for granted. I think it is just like the basics, we look at them as simple steps or movements not realizing that without good basics the big picture will not be created.

Thank you Shihans, Senseis ,Sempais and kohais for a great camp.

PS: Please help me and send Sempai Curtis candy and cookies as he needs to gain 20 lbs of fat by summer camp! He beat me again in push-ups!

Osu Kelly Burden

Winter Camp 2013.

As the Dan candidates at Winter Camp perhaps have empathy with, I find myself not for the first time in a few days staring at a paper and saying to myself, “ Okay, where do I begin with this one. “

Once again under stated, ‘ expect the un expected ’  then trained to expect the un expected, study the un expected only to be stunned by the un expected and sent back ‘wanting ’ to think again, “most  un expected” from the written test.

To begin, it was nice to see some upgrades in the accomodation this year and to say that the food was of good quality and in plenty supply,… so too all the good friends attending.

The Instruction at winter camp this year as always provided Top level Training from Top Level Instructors.

Lead by our Shihan’s Stuart and Donald, Sensei’s  Larry, Brad, Dean and Mike directed the training, technical direction defining the ‘standard required’ that being the basic application of correct form and technique.

This included Seipai Kata for the higher belts as well as Happo No Kawashi from Sensei Larry with the progression on then how to use these in practical Self Defense or advance goshin jitsui from Shihan Donald as well as other forms of Ido Geiko or Juji Kata from both Shihan’s demonstrated exceptionally by Sensei Dean.

The “Common thread “  of kihon and technique begun to be sewn, laid first by ‘ the standard’ followed then the progression of application or way that this application is then directed by different instructor’s with the message ‘ take away from this what you need in your training’,  freely given.

Moreover the point that while there is a Standard for good reason and that therefore a minimal requirement, but that this is perhaps not the ‘only’ way.

To be part of and have the ability to attend such a camp and be freely given access to the experience as well as years of someone else’s  technique or thought process gained through hard learned training is a true privilege and should always be considered as such.

And, as such, likewise also privileged to train with those training partners, sempai’s as well as all the other Karate ka without which there can be no such training, or no such instruction, perhaps no valuable lesson’s learned.

Most privileged always is to sit in on the Dan Candidates interviews and learn what or how much  it means to those new Dan Candidates in reaching some of their goals, many of them surpassing expectations of not only the people around them, but also themselves.

More than a few demonstrating OSU No Seishin beyond what would be any requirement or ‘standard’.

It is out of this complexity that maybe another lesson comes or a message sent.

Standards, technique and basics can be taught nowadays with modern technology over the internet.       (or even as demonstrated by Shihan Stuart, at the least it can be used to ‘enhance’ training capabilities)

With such technology it would be relatively easy to define process, standard and Level of success as defined by minimum requirement to those who have the ability to perform those techniques.

Then as such, equally as easy to issue certificates and belts.

Is this what Karate is only about in purpose and fulfillment as well as accomplishment?

IS the standard as defined by technical standard alone the only way to accomplish those goals and to deliver belt grading? Or define who should get a belt or recognition?

If so, then perhaps is there any requirement for an organization?

With no such organization there would be no tournaments , no lifelong training partners, experiences beyond  boundaries or relationships developed over the years or much more which has been gained, although maybe a great deal of money could be made on certificates or applications on line.

Kyokushin Karate, and in Canada has minimum requirements which in themselves set the bar level beyond other disciplines, but more importantly these standards go well beyond technical ability alone.

Many with a technical ability well above requirement do not make the grade, fail or give up before reaching or being accepted into Dan grading.

Perhaps the ultimate reality of Kyokushin Karate is displayed in what is obtainable in going beyond the ‘norm’ as a standard in the first place.

I honour all of those Dan candidates who have shown already this high standard and wish you luck as you continue to go beyond your own individual expectations.

Without those who have shown me the way, the instructors, my Sempai’s and most of all, all my training partners, I would not have not have accomplished anything in karate and be less in other areas.

We all need Sempai’s and ko hai’s as without which - there is no organization - and without an organization - there are no Sempai’s or Ko hai’s as no need, so we should not take this symbiotic environment for granted.

As much as my belt means and belongs to me, it belongs to all those who train with me at our dojo, my Sensei as well as all the instructors who have given me, or continue to give me guidance -  As well all of you at the many winter Camps and Summer Camps who have given your time to help me on this path as well your friendship.

My accomplishments, as small as they are, come from the organization. Therefore we need a strong, deep understanding of what this really means on all levels for it to continue to grow and further develop.

OSU, Thank you all.   

Winter Camp 2013

Osu,

Winter Camp was a little bit different for me this year since this time I would be attending it as one of the Yudansha candidates. Truth be told, I was more nervous about attending camp the day I signed up then I was on the actual weekend. I had been preparing, along with Sempai’s Greg and Scott, for this leg of my grading journey for some time and so I had felt somewhat confident about my abilities for the tests and I felt at ease as we drove up to camp. The biggest concern I had was not being late for the start of camp but that was put to rest when we arrived about 3 hours early.

The weekend progressed as expected with exceptional instruction, good food and great friends to enjoy it with. Finally Saturday afternoon arrived and part one of our grading was set to begin – tamishiwari. Along with the other Dan candidates we were assembled on one side of the room while the rest of the camp attendees sat on the other, a bit of a surreal feeling to be sure. Oddly enough I was quite relaxed (the complete opposite to what I had expected to feel) as I waited and watched the other Shodan candidates work their way through their boards. The nerves finally did ramp up a bit when it came to my turn as I didn’t want to be the first one of the group not to be successful. The room seemed to become extremely quite and it felt to me that I was alone with just the board holders, maybe that was kime or maybe it was mushin but in any case I was completely relaxed. Two with hiji ate, two with tetsui oroshi and one with seikin tsuki and much to my relief the tamishiwari test was done.

With no broken bones and only slightly frayed nerves it was time to focus on the written exam which would take place later that evening. But first it was back to the cabin for some last minute studying, followed by a quick dinner in the hall and then the Dan candidates were taken downstairs to write their respective tests. The Shodan test was not quite what I had expected and it showed just how much more there is for me to learn about our style of karate and the organization that supports it. Later on in the evening the Dan candidate interviews were conducted and this is where my nerves took quite a beating. While the questions were simple enough I’m not sure if my answers were as I seemed to ramble on, hoping to say the right things but not sure if I did. Sensei Mike assured us that we all did well on our tests so hearing that news was a big relief; finally it was time to relax and get some sleep.

I was asked during the weekend by one of my Sensei’s what I thought it meant to be a black belt or more specifically a Shodan. I stumbled with my answer mumbling something about being a good sempai, giving back to my dojo, encouraging others in my club to attend IKOK-C events, being a beginner, etc. Upon reflection what I could have said was that being a shodan would give me the opportunity to become an ambassador for the organization and give back to the IKOK-C for everything it has given me so far. Being a shodan would allow me to become involved in organizational matters that aren’t available to the kyu grades and it would be my duty and responsibility to take advantage of this opportunity and to help out in any way that I can.

I would like to thank Sensei Mike and Sempai Greg for all their support, guidance, personal sacrifices and training they have shared with me so far on this journey. I would also like to thank Shihan Stuart and Shihan Donald for all they have given and continue to give to our organization and for making this winter camp an especially memorable one for me. I wish the other Dan candidates continued success as we continue together on this adventure and I look forward to seeing them again at summer camp and other IKOK-C events.

I close by leaving you with this quote from page 15 of the Kyokushin Karate Student Handbook which nicely sums up my journey so far:

“…it should be clearly understood that the spirit of the karate-do is to fight to overcome oneself – not others.”

Osu, Rob Sonnenberg

Winter Camp 2013 write up

Osu Shihan,

To start I would like to thank all the instructors and Shihan Stuart for a great experience that truly made me appreciate being a karate ka. The first element of the camp that I liked was the emphasis on kihon and Ido Geiko; because not only is it important to practice in the dojo, it is also key to explore what techniques that are not necessarily used in tournaments. When we did the Ido Geiko instructed by Shihan Donald, it exemplified how much I need to work on my basics. The second element I liked was the meeting other people who have their own style and understanding of Kyokushin, but one thing I saw that everyone had was a true sense of focus and dedication. I not only made new friends, I felt a part of a family of strong and dedicated people. The third and last element I liked was the first part of my shodan test, because it dignified where I stand as a karate ka and how well I understand my style of martial arts. On a more personal level, it tested the level of confidence I have in myself to keep training hard and have a more open knowledge of Kyokushin karate. In conclusion, I thank again all the instructors, those who were all there and trained hard and good luck to the all the Dan candidates.

Osu, Andre

At Winter Camp, everyone expects the usual, but this camp like all of them, for me, are so different & inspirational.  We think we know so much because we have trained for so long but regardless of how many years we train, there is always something more or different things we don't think about until we are doing those different things during our training session.  So we have to go into these camps to expect the unexpected.
I found this past weekend very overwhelming with a stress I put on myself & a realization that I know nothing.  With all the reading I have done, I still know nothing compared to what we can do with all the ideas in the minds of all who train in this organization.  So the quote, “One thousand days of training a beginner, ten thousand days of training a master” is as accurate as to how it really is when we train in Kyokushin Karate. This is a testing year for me, but I have never had a test I did well in during all of my training years & this year is proving to be the same.  At least there is consistency.   I need to expect the unexpected & stop trying to predict what the next move is going to be so I won't fall behind on the changes that get implemented.
We were told to just listen, and do what was instructed, simple.   I always think I am listening & doing what I am told, but I find, I just forgot to do the block on that combination, or I am not in the right stance or a very good stance.  Sometimes I wish I could just do, not think about what is being instructed to do.  How does one shut off the active mind during ido geko.  This is a big step for all of us who train, the "kime" needs to be constant. It was proven that just by doing one- three step combination over & over, it can be picked up or completed successfully. If there is one change, in one of the techniques or stances, everything can go awry for me.  Once there is another change in this combination before I catch on, it sends me reeling into a black hole.
So, what I think is important for my training from here on is to expect the unexpected,   work on being spontaneous with the instruction given, and not try to over think what is being asked.  Also, I know nothing compared to the potential of knowledge or ideas in our organization, I just need to be open to it when I am confronted with it.

Meg Black
Penticton Dojo
March 22, 2013

Winter Camp 2013

Driving into camp on a sunny day for the last winter weekend and there is no snow on the road. In my company was Isabelle, her happy and energetic daughter Cassou and Tomomi who is grading for her Shodan this year. We arrived and unloaded our personal items into our respective cabins. Shortly after I met Kris, Michigan, Jan, Shella and Anne. Jack arrived later.

The 6 pm training was plenty of kihon and even more energy. It is always great to be with so many familiar faces again. There were about 65 Karateka training including Shihan's Stuart and Don and Sensei's Larry, Brad and Dean.

Dinner was good and included introductions from all the brown belts which proved to be a varied mix of personalities. In the background the television was playing past tournaments, self defence with Bobby Low and other collections. We turned in early to the warm cabins to be ready for the 6 am training session.

Training in the morning at Winter Camp is always refreshing for the soul especially when wearing only running shoes and a dogi. It was actually the mildest of any previous Winter Camp mornings that I could remember. Afterwards we headed into the hall to continue training. The training continued for the day with the anticipated board breaking requirement for myself and the other 18 dan candidates scheduled for 2:30 pm. Well, there I was with the others as we were reminded what techniques and number of boards we were required to break depending on various factors such as age, gender and grading level being tested. With myself testing for Sandan I had four attempts to break a total of seven boards and I chose wisely (this time) to complete it in three attempts. Mawashi geri with 3 boards, hiji with 2 and shuto with 2. I was confident in my ability to succeed, but I would not leave the task at hand to chance so when I threw my mawashi, it was with perhaps a little bit more effort than necessary. At the end, everyone was successful.

The next test was a written test after dinner and lets just say it caused most, if not every dan candidate to pay attention to more aspects of our organization. I think it was very valid and necessary. We were the first group to get this test and therefore were not as prepared as we could have been. After the tests were completed we began the interview process and were all asked about the written test. Most of the candidates had a similar feeling of being unprepared. Heads up for future candidates...

Trained again the next morning at 6 am where I experienced a moment I will remember for a long time. It was as we stood in the snow under a star lit sky with our eyes closed in preparation of the training to come. I could feel and hear the cool wind gently blowing, so peaceful. After that training ended as everyone headed back to the hall for the last training session of Winter Camp 2013, I stood in the snow looking at the stars and noticed a slightly orange glow on the horizon where the sun was about to rise and just took it all in.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to this Camp by way of organizing, instructing or by training hard. It is always too quick to pass but more importantly too enjoyable too pass on. Until next time I see everyone, take care...

Osu

Curtis Mason

I remember my first winter camp. It was winter 2002. Just over a half a year earlier the Banff Dojo joined the IKOK-C and participation in winter camp at the Silver Lake Forestry Centre was a big deal to me. At the time only two participants attended from Banff, myself and my sempai. In the years that have followed, the location changed a few times due to the main lodge burning down and I found myself often the only participant attending from Banff.

The years have gone by and many faces have come and gone at the winter camp. Many have returned year after year. With these people I share a unique camaraderie that people uninvolved in martial arts, particularly Kyokushin Karate, will never understand. Our commonality is a desire to push our selves, test ourselves, work hard, get better and do things seemingly crazy, dangerous or even foolish to the uninitiated in Kyokushin Karate. Where others question "Why bother to do that, its crazy" Kyokushin Karateka think, "because its hard, it will challenge me, I'll be better because I set my mind to do it, and then I do it, AND I LIKE it". Having this understanding with fellow Karateka, without having to explain it as we would to an ordinary person, makes gatherings such as these so enjoyable. I know that my students who join the camp feel the same afterwards as well.

This year Banff had a record attendance to the camp of 3, two returnees and one brand new person to camp. While not a huge number of participants it has set the bar a little higher, and one new person has brought back stories of how fantastic the camp was to the rest of our dojo members. I am always encouraged by the motivation I feel, and see in my students after attending a camp. Being exposed to different instructors, styles of teaching and techniques opens our eyes to how much more there truly is to learn, and how much farther we can stretch ourselves. I always bring back a a tremendous amount of enthusiasm from winter camp, any camp for that matter. I hope that mine and other participants enthusiasm will become infectious and more of my students will step a little further out of their comfort zone and attend, and reap the benefits of what (any) camp has to offer.

Osu
Daymon Miller
Head Instructor
Banff Dojo
Shodan

This year’s Winter Camp started like all others. Planning the trip out the week earlier. Making sure everyone who was traveling with us was ready to go Friday morning at 6am. Walking out to my truck to discover over a foot of fresh snow. Ugh!! Well here we go. With everyone loaded into the truck we begin our 12 hour trek to Peachland BC. After many hours of driving the roads improved and we managed to make it to camp in time for the first training session. This year I am testing for my Sandan with 2 of my students testing for Shodan.  The training was great as it always is. Saturday morning we trained in an open area above the parking lot because the ice on the lake was no good. This has always been my favorite part of Winter Camp. After breakfast we carried on with another training session. A little rest, then lunch and on to the breaking component for the Dan candidates. There were various breaks and strategies but at the end all were successful. After another training session it’s time for supper, then the written test and interviews for the Dan candidates. There were varied and interesting answers from the Dan candidates on the questions that were asked of them. It was then off to bed so we could have a decent sleep before our 6 am start to training and long drive home.  I took some time to reflect on this grading as opposed to others in the past. I find this journey feels different than my previous Dan grading’s. I’m not sure what or why it seems to be different but I continue to look forward to the journey.

Osu
Steve Doyle
Stony Plain

Winter Camp 2013

Driving up from Calgary to Winter Camp was a very pleasant experience this year. First off  I didn’t have to do any of the driving as I caught a ride with Sempai Doug Potter, who was also coming up to train this weekend. The roads were in great conditions and the temperature was always above the freezing mark reaching upwards of 16 degrees Celsius. At times it made me wonder if we were on our way to Summer Camp.

We arrived at camp around 4:30 pm and already a lot of participants had arrived. We met up with many familiar faces and caught up on the latest happenings. This year the instructors focussed on ” basic kihon and ido geiko” which they manipulated into “not so basic kihon and ido geiko” that had our brains hurting more than our bodies. Just when I thought I had a good grasp..... Think again.

The kata “Seipei” was also a major focus of attention for the senior belts. Proper executions of the basic techniques and stances were emphasized along with the three major components of all katas ; tempo, breathing and power.

All dan candidates, including myself had to perform their board breaking requirements on Saturday. I’m happy to report all candidates attending were successful in their attempts, great job everyone. The written test and the interview came next, as always, they were the mentally challenging part of the process.

For some training sessions choices were offered between fight classes and self defense. This year I chose self defense. The important lesson learned here was there is no substitute for proper stances and execution of movements. When done correctly you don’t need to work that hard to be effective in performing goshin jitsu.

I would like to thank Shihan Stuart for organizing a great Winter Camp. To Shihan Don, Sensei Larry, Sensei Brad, Sensei Dean and Sensei Mike thank you for your patience and sharing your knowledge with us this weekend.

OSU,

Denis Forget

Calgary Kyokushin Karate

Winter camp 2013

As the campers and Dan candidates rolled into camp there a buzy of excitement for the training ahead.

Once everyone was settled and we entered into the first training session welcomed by Shihan everyone with a mind & body routine of Ido gekko just change one thing and watch us unravel.

As always there was a spirited fighting section of class to get the adrenalin flowing and a mutual respect of each other as sosai said you only know someone till you spar with them.

Saturday morning came very quickly as the weather dropped in temperature the morning air chilled and the training picked up paces so everyone stayed warm. As Shihan Stuart put it shivering is a way to keep warm but that wouldn't count for us karate-ka's. once inside Shihan Don gave the nidan candidates a treat this years as the kata for camp was sepia. This was a great chance for us to really dive into the depth and little moves that need to be mastered in this kata. To make things interesting a head to head challenge was held during Sunday morning training. The kicker was out of all the nidan candidates no one was able to make the quarter finals. (Guess we all need some work).

The high light of the day was the board breaking where all candidates had a successful outing. There was a great showing of support from all and a little help from Shihan Stuart to make sure very one made the best choices on position of the boards and techniques being used.

Training kept going and moved into fighting and self defence taught by Shihan Don & Sensai Larry fighting by Sensai Brad & Sensai Dean.

The self defence as always was a lot of fun with tons of knowleged being freely given by the the instructors as partners made a loud thud when they hit the mat.

Once the final training session finished the hall was set for dinner and the smells from the kitchen were mouth watering.

As dinner finished up the candidates nerves could be seen by all as they readied them selves for the drededed written exam and interview amongst their peers and Instructors. As there are 19 people this made for a long night for the senior belts.

Again Sunday morning came very quickly and the closing of camp with just 2 trainings to go. Again the temp dropped and with the chilled air and fresh snow we had a brief but fun session in the snow. Back inside we worked hard on sepai as I had the previously mentioned kata comp as the room filled with smells of breakfast from the kitchen.

Once breakfast was done there were a few people that had to head out as window of good driving conditions closed on the day. Everyone that left early he,p with some clean up to speed things up for the remaining campers. The last session was a combination of a few warm up games from Sensai Brad Ido gekko from Shihan Stuart that worked our minds and body as we tried to get the ying & yang of our mind & body to work together. The last part of camp was the mock fitness challenge to see who could do the most push-ups, belt jumps and hand stand walk across the dojo floor. Props went out to sempai Curtis & sempai Greg. Curtis for the 103 push ups & hand stand walk for Greg. Both 50+ showing all us younger students we have a lot of work to do.

As camp came to a close and all helped to clean up leaving the place as if we were never there. Great memories were made ideas shared in hopes that who came improved and takes home to share the great experiences and ideas given by our Shihans & Sensai's.

Osu

Arthur Leithman

Winter Camp 2013

OSU!

This was my third trip to Winter Camp and by far my best experience.

My first trip to camp a few years ago was a solo pilgrimage with Sempai Keith from Nelson. The banter between us lessened the anxiety of the unknown and made for good weekend.

My second trip to Winter Camp was with Sempai’s Jerry, Bill and Trudy from our Cranbrook Dojo. As all three were Dan Candidates on that trip, the nervous energy in the truck was almost palatable. The training was excellent, the comradery was outstanding, but the meals provided were challenging.

Now in 2013 it has become my turn to make the pilgrimage to Winter Camp to begin the Shodan testing process. Unfortunately all of my Sempai’s had commitments that would not allow them to accompany me on this part of my journey, but I have the support of 6 members of the Cranbrook dojo, none of which have ever been to Winter Camp and of course Shihan Don. Chad Dueck was good enough to volunteer to join me in the equipment van for the trip and although he has trained with Shihan Don in the 1990’s and for a time in recent years, he has never been to Winter Camp. This makes for a tension free trip as there are no pre-conceptions of what lies ahead. Thank you Chad for your positive energy on this part of the journey and for not allowing me to turn the van around once we made the left at the lights in Peachland.

Upon arriving at camp, it was pleasant surprise to see the cabin we stayed in had been stripped, the floor painted, new bunks built with new mattresses and new lights installed. This was a vast improvement over previous years. Once we had selected our bunks and dropped our personal items off it was time to make for the hall and unload the equipment, meet and greet old friends and settle in for a weekend of karate training.

The training this weekend was outstanding! The energy that 60 karate ka with produce with kai in a confined space cannot be duplicated. There’s nothing like hard training to help ease the nerves of 19 nervous Dan candidates. It seemed that energy from Friday night carried right thru the whole weekend with every session unfolding at the same level of intensity as the first.

After the initial training session we settled in for our first meal at camp. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by not only the quality but the quantity of all the meals served this year. It was much appreciated and a vast improvement over last year’s camp.

As the day begun Saturday with the customary 6 AM outdoor training, my tension level was once again ramped up thinking about the upcoming written test and the interview process. To my mind’s eye the board breaking was going to be a much needed release of pent up nervous energy and as such wasn’t weighing heavy on my mind. The outdoor training went well with the valley echoing from the kai.

An excellent breakfast was followed by our first goshin-jitsu session of the day, which was an inspired training session lead by Shihan Don and his uke Sempai Damon, from Banff, who flew through the air with the greatest of ease. Having trained with Shihan Don and having been uke for Shihan, I truly appreciated the presentation that Sempai Damon put forth, showing the true effect of the techniques as they were applied to him…..over and over again!

An excellent lunch was served, followed by a bit of rest period before the Dan candidate board breaking session. As this was my first step in the Dan grading process, my nerves starting to get the best of me. Once I realized this, I took some time to myself with my tennis balls and muscle roller and had a good stretch. It is amazing how tuning into your body centers your focus for the task at hand and eliminated doubt that played on my mind.

All the Dan Candidates made their breaks, and if I’m not mistaken I think only 3 techniques had to be done twice to accomplish the task. An excellent show of Spirit by all involved! My breaks went as planned with a serious shot of adrenaline just before I stood to do my breaks.

The afternoon’s goshin-jitsu session was led by Sensei Larry and complimented by Shihan Don, and was based on the practical application of the first 4 moves of Happo. Outstanding session! For anyone who hasn’t had the opportunity to train with Sensei Larry and Shihan Don, it is truly a “bucket list” item for all karate ka! The depth and breathe of knowledge and bunkai would be hard if not impossible to duplicate anywhere on this planet.

By the time supper arrived, everyone had consumed 5 times the amount of calories that we had consumed all day on Saturday last year, but no one was turning another excellent meal!

By now my stress level was truly peaking as all the Dan Candidates were to write the new exam right after supper. Anyone who knows me knows I am about as far from being an academic as is possible. All the hours spent trying to formulate a study plan, reverse engineer the syllabus to learn how the techniques were to be applied in order to be tested and then try to spell techniques that we all have floating in our heads. Oh my! Once we settled into writing the test, the information that I had absorbed readily spewed forth, although I think Shihan Stuart will want an apology for having to decipher not only my rendition of the spelling of techniques but also for my fantastic hand writing skills.

Once the written test was completed the interview was next and I have to comment on this phase of the testing process. With what I do for a living, I interview, hire and fire all the time, but it’s been 18 years since I was last in the hot seat, and now I understand how come most people I interview look like a deer in the headlights. I kept telling myself “Relax. Stay calm. Think about what you are going to say before you say it” not sure if I did, but no one told me to pack my bags and get out of camp, so that was comforting. Upon re-tracing my steps upstairs it felt as if the pressure was off and I was more than happy to spend the next couple of hours socializing with some very supportive people.

Sunday morning in our cabin started with an alarm going off a wee bit early for some of the karate ka in the cabin and was further exasperated by the owner not being on hand to shut it off. The morning training in the snow bank was watched over by a beautiful clear, crisp sky with all the stars shining brightly. It was very spectacular. The session ended with Shihan instructing everyone to wade into the deep snow and do pushups. This ended in laughter as we all broke though the crust of the snow and ended up with our noses in the snow.

After another outstanding breakfast, it was time to pack up the equipment and bid farewell to anyone and everyone we bumped into. On the 7 hours journey home we spent reviewing all that we had seen and done over the weekend and for me it was also a time to reflect and start thinking ahead for the next step in the Shodan Testing process.

A special thank you to the Shihans and all the Senseis for the excellent instruction we received this weekend. A very special and large thank you to Shihan Don and to the Al, Wendy, Mac and Al from the Cranbrook Dojo as well a special thank you to Chad for riding with me and not letting me turn the van around. Nobody can successfully go through the Dan Grading process alone. Without the help and support from all the members of your dojo, be they Shihan’s, Sensei’s, Sempai’s or Kohai this process cannot be accomplished without their help and support. So thank you to the entire Cranbrook Dojo for helping me get past the first hurdle.

OSU!

John Darula

Rocky Mountain Dojo

Cranbrook BC

This was my fourth winter camp and despite a 12 hour drive, was absolutely worth it as always. As i'm grading for shodan this year, I spent most of Saturday stressed out like the rest of the Dan candidates. A couple of highlights This year were Shihan Stuart busting out some more mind bending ido gieko as well as juji Kata, Shihan Don focused on seipei kata, and one of the best Kata and fighting classes I've ever been to were taught by the sensational duo that  is  sensei Dean and Sensei Brad. A first for me was doing push-ups in knee deep snow, definitely wakes you up first thing in the morning. The shodan interview was exactly what I expected and the written was not at all what I expected. As always though it was great to see my Kyokushin family and all in all a fantastic camp and would recommend it to anyone who has never been, as it is always a fantastic experience and you always get more then what you pay for.

Osu!

Chris Gowen

Osu,

The IKOK-C Annual Winter camp was held at the Silver Lake Forestry Centre on March 15-17. and I attended this event as a dan candidate this year. I was a bit nervous because There would be written exam and the interview in this camp as It was the very important part of the dan grading process. but this time I had a few people from our dojo going for the dan grading. Sempai Curtis going for San-dan and Kris and Tomomi going for Sho-dan. so I felt a bit relaxed because I thought I get through those tough exams as a team.

Day one went really fast. I pick up Jan from our dojo and left Vancouver around 12:30pm. This was his first time going to the camp so We were talking about the camp all the way to Peachland. Thanks to him, the 4 hours driving was not so boring. After arriving at the cabin, we had a short break and off to the first training session. We went over some Kihons and Ido geiko. and did a bit of the fighting training at the end. It is always great to find out the different angle to look at for each basics and regular training. Even though some technique or training we do everyday, if you change how you look at it or change a few technique, it became like totally different training. As an instructor at the dojo, Those instruction gave me more new idea for our dojo training.

Day two was all good mix of Kata, Goshin-jutsu and Fighting. For Kata, we focused on one Kata for this weekend, "Sei-pai". I thought I could do this Kata but after a few session with Shihan Don, I realized that I just "knew" kata not "Mastered" kata.  Shihan emphasized to visualized the opponent, stable stance, the detail of each technique. I never thought about where I put hand on for Morote-uke and where I place my fist when I am doing hiji-uchi. It was good to re-think about the Kata and I will pay more attention to the details of each kata.

The Goshin-jutsu class was excellent. It was fun to watch the heavy weight guy fly into air by just small wrist movement by Shihan Don.  (Sorry Daymon!) When Shihan demonstrate, it looks so easy but when I try to do it, it goes a bit awkward and doesn't work well. I just need more practice and experience. I will do more Goshin-jutsu practice in my daily training.

The fighting training was great as well. Sensei Brad and Sensei Dean taught us the counter attack against kicks. Sensei Brad always gives student very precise advise and I learned how to observe the students. and Sensei Dean's technique are perfect. I think it is very important to show proper technique for demonstration to students. so that they can visualize it easier. I will have to improve my technique to do a good demo.

Then after the dinner, we had the written test and the interview. The written was not exactly what I expected. I can't say this went well but it was an eye-opener for me. It made me think about the IKOK-C organization more not only for an individual..

The last day saw two training sessions. We reviewed what we done last two days. My "Sei-pai" got much better. and I thought I now know the "Juji kata" but Shihan Stuart gave us different technique for the kata then it was like totally different kata again. I will bring this back to my dojo and try it again with our students.

Through this great weekend experience, I really thought that It is very important to get out from your "Comfort zone" and challenge something new. That is the Key to grow/improve. I will keep trying hard to be better Karate-ka.

Lastly, Thank you for IKOK-C, Shihan Stuart and Shihan Don, Senseis to provide us this great experience and also Sempais and Kohais for training together. I think we are lucky to have this strong organization so that we can focus on the training and the tournaments not anything else. I really appreciate it and would like to contribute to the organization in future.

Thank you.
Osu!

Michi Nagase
Richmond East Dojo

In this Winter Camp, learned Juji Kata and Seipai.

I have only ever practiced Seipai Kata from YouTube by myself, although it is only required for 2nd dan grading.  There was some of the blind angle on video about stances and techniques.

My wrong left hand position in count seven, Hiji Uchi, in count nine Chudan tsuki with "Sanchin Dachi".  I thought it is Moroashi dachi.

Shihan Don, taught us more detail of Seipai. Juji Kata.

I have never heard that even the name of this Kata.

Ashi sabaki made me very confused.  I am not very good at this Kata.

Sensei Larry stayed behind for me, to keep teaching and gave me some good points of Juji.

Those are great opportunity that may come to me not more than one or twice a year for me.

No matter how much grown internet in this world, not possible to cover the techniques of Karate without human power, and I enjoyed myself this session very much!

Osu.

Tomomi Inoue