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Taking care of ourselves, our families, our friends and our communities has never been more important in our lives, as we struggle with the everyday reality of what is happening around us, to us and to many whom we know. "Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage." Lao Tzu We wish you whatever you wish for yourselves in the New Year of 2024 and we hope we can inspire you to keep head, heart and soul together for the benefit of those around you. "Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall". Confucius

DERRICK WRIDGWAY DERRICK WRIDGWAY 5th Dan Shihan Budokan One of Doshu's earliest Disciples and strongest Budokan supporters of well over 50 years, started his Karate career in 1964 at one of Budokan South Africa's first dojo in the small town of Pinetown, Natal.
Under the guidance of Doshu and with dedicated training he in a short time proved he was to become a major player in Budokan SA and as Doshu once commented, "He was one of the finest technicians I ever trained". In the contest arena he proved himself by representing his Province of Natal on many occasions and winning the Shukokai Senior Kata Championship three years in a row. He eventually became a Senior Sensei within Budokan SA travelling and teaching full time in many of the dojo across the country. In a break from Karate he proved his determination to excel in whatever he undertook and completed the very challenging International "Two Oceans Road Marathon" which runs between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans around Cape Town and then he went on to complete in "two" of the World Famous Mega "Comrades Marathon", said to be one of the toughest road races in the world, both proud achievements.., Today he is working alongside his friend of a lifetime, Kyoshi David Passmore in the development of our BUDOKAN WORLD.

SHIKANTAZA An aide memoire Shikantaza (just simply sitting) is objectless meditation, in which the practitioner uses the power developed in concentration to remain in a state of conscious awareness. There are a variety of different views on what sikantaza actially means. Some say shikantaza is described best as, "quiet sitting in open awareness, reflecting directly on the reality of life". Shikantaza is often termed a goalless meditation in quiet awareness, not working on any koan, or counting the breath. It is an alert condition, performed erect, with no trace of sluggishness or drowsiness. Som scholars have said that shi means tranquility, kan refers to awareness, ta means hitting exactly the right spot and za means to sit. For me it all comes down to "j ust simply sitting still in tranquil awareness ". Zen - meaning meditation - changes your spirit by reflection. What follows is a short travelogue of nudges, reminders and observations to help you on the road to the Shikantaza experience. On the left hand side you will see some figures in bold . These figures should be used as a rough guide to the aproximate times that should have lapsed during your preparation and each section of your parctice. The first figure is for less experienced maditators. The second figure is for experienced meditators. Everybody is different and you will find out what suits you from your own experience. After you have sat down and become aware that you are upright and comfortable - from that moment prepare yourself - it varies with each individual. Close your eyes lightly - and keep them closed for the entire "zesshin". Breathe from the lower abdomen - so it becomes "abdominal respiration". It also called diaphragmatic respiration. Do not use your upper chest for breathing and keep your shoulders level and relaxed. Place your tongue lightly on the roof of your mouth and try to keep it there. You can't easily breathe in via the mouth if the tongue is in this position for long. You must breathe in and out through the nose. Slowly breathe in through your nose to say 5 seconds. Slowly breathe out through your nose for say 7 seconds Where the CO2 exhaled from your lungs is greater than the oxygen you breathed in. Keep just this going for a while and establish a rhythm of diaphragmatic breathing which reaches an equilibrium of around 5 or 6 seconds and 5 or 6 seconds out. Interestingly, this has historical precedent in religious practices where 6 seconds is exactly the time it takes to accomplish certain Buddhist mantra's and it is also found the same exhalation is used whilst citing the Christian Rosary. ..................................................Now become AWARE. On a wide range of levels. Your stillness is critical so - DO NOT MOVE UNLESS YOU HAVE TO. From below the belt you are absolutely rooted to the spot you are sitting on. No movement there. Your heartbeat - feel it - really feel it. Your body is still and your muscles have nothing to do - so they soften. And soften they do as you take in more oxygen into your blood through the established rhythm of your breathing. As the muscles soften your joints begin to open. There is the rhythm of your lower abdominal nuscles. In the stomach area the Japanese call the Hara. And there you will find what is called the Tanden. The single spot in the lower abdomen - about an inch or so directly below your navel. It is your centre of gravity. As you breathe in - they expand out - not too much. As you breathe out - they contract - just a little more. Maintain the rhythm. Slowly and imperceptibly, your muscles have softened to the point where you have become aware of it and you have to micro manage your posture from time to time in 4 tiny movements. 1 Most peoples heads move a little forward, so every now and then you need to move your head back to the midline of your shoulders and tuck your chin in just a little at the same time. 2 Raise your ribcage - this is the area where most people begin to stoop from. 3 This will lead you to gently make your lumbar vertebrae a little more concave. 4 Allow both shoulders to drop evenly. You will need to continue to make micro adjustments to your posture, (as above) as it naturally changes and you become used to feeling it necessary to do so. Its not a thought process - its just a feeling. And it usually ends up being a lot more comfortable. So keep doing it please. Maintain your breathing ryhthm. And become aware of your senses. Move your attention to your eyes and slowly roll them a little. From there flare your nose a few times as you breathe in. Push your tongue gently up to the roof of your mouth. Become aware of your hearing. Move your fingers a little for touch. And now you sense of being.....here.....now.... Turn your awareness onto your brain. That houses the mind. The best difference between the two I have read is "The brain is indeed the physical structure. Neurons, axons, dendrites, neurotransmitters, synapses, discrete structures… All that and more. The “mind” (consciousness) is the “emergent property” of the activity of that brain". Quora Past , present and future thoughts - pop in and out all the time - as has already been happening to you. Let them come and go. Learn how to get back to your awarenes of what you are doing in the present. Let the past go and do not look to the future - always stay in the present - it is not easy but comes with practice. And the flow of thoughts will begin to slow down as they should have by now. By raising or slowing our brainwaves, we can altar how we think, feel and act. Meditation is the process of slowing our alerting beta brainwaves to the slower states of alpha and theta. Beta is the waking, thinking state. It is our normal state of mind in which we are the highly alert. Alpha is a slower state more indicative of relaxing and reflecting. Meditation is often practiced in the alpha state. Theta is an even slower state perfect for daydreaming and intuitive thinking. Deep meditation and prayer are practiced in the theta state. Delta is the slowest of the four states where sleep occurs. At the slowest delta level, sleep is deep and dreamless. Neuroimaging studies suggest that the normal resting state of the brain is a silent current of thoughts, images and memories that is not induced by sensory input or intentional reasoning, but emerges spontaneously "from within." This is what the Zen Buddhists from the Soto sect refer to as “silent illumination”. And that is what actually happens - as feelings come before thoughts. But here in this stillness of the body, the rhythm of the breath opens the way to a deep, visceral awareness. It is much like Metsuke - a much heightened form of conscious awareness than Zanshin when training in Budo, along with the physical manifestation of Kime when doing any Kata. The head, heart and soul of it all. Our thoughts, our desires and our experiences. It is the awareness of awarenesses. And it is here that you have to work hard at sliencing your inner monologue from trying to analyse or comment on what you see and experience. It is the point when your subjective experiences becomes objective observation. It is where subjective and objective meet. Which ever so slowly over time begins to evolve into a clearer perception of the world inside your head and the real world out there. Images appear and disappear in a kaleidoscope of colour. Some are quite quick and slow to disappear. Some just slowly emerge into recognisable images. Many are landscapes and vistas that are new to you. Some are people and faces you have never seen before. You can't hold on to them for longer than a few seconds - most try to and fail. Swirling cloud-like images float around and past you. Giving you an impression of movement. Slowly you reach a deep state of absolute stilness and silence. It is often referred to as the "void". It is as if you are at the edge of space. You are in awe for what you think is an eternity. .../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../.../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../.................. Einstein said "The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious; It is the source of all true art and science". How you emerge from this experience depends on the environment you are in. Always try to do so slowly if you can. Keeping your eyes closed for a few minutes more. Tuck your chin in to your chest - round your shoulders and your spine and gently stretch forward, as far as you comfortably can and hold for a minute. Sit up slowly and rotate your shoulders both ways by moving your arms. Move your head up and down slowly. And then to the left and the right. Sit still and upright for a moment with youe eyes open. Feel the moment. Lao Tzu said "Meditation is vital energy". And I do generally feel vitalised and full of energy in the immediate hours thereafter. But for me the chief consequence of doing 45 minutes or an hour of Shikantaza first thing in the morning, is the beautiful feeling of having tapped into my inuitive self aong with a sense of clarity that remains present with me for the rest of my day. Well, almost. It is not easy to practice Shikantaza every day - but the benefits are supreme. Each and every day thereafter. David Passmore Kyoshi At the beginning of 2021 DRAW A VEIL OVER THE FUTURE. LET GO OF THE PAST. EMBRACE THE PRESENT. 5-10

THE STORY OF BUDOKAN BY DOJO ACTIVE BUDOKAN DOJO Budokan's very first Dojo in Westville South Africa. Every Dojo has a story, especially this one built by Instructors, students and friends of Budokan in an old quarry near Durban SA. GO TO THE DOJO PAGE Allan Pert Uxbridge London 1980 D Waghorne David Golding Arundel 2020 Richard Salmon Sarnia 1960 Richard Salmon Ray Ryan Derrick Wridgway Westville HQ 1961/2 Dunlop Paul Johannesburg 1967 Derrick Wridgway Port Shepstone 1972 Loek Latagan Knysna 1978 Hugh Sadler Maritxburg 1968 Frank Van Rensburg Montclair 1976 Willie Riddex Bethleham 1967 Terry Bosch Durban Umbilo 1989 Whitey Pollett Bloemfontenn 1967 Ray Ryan Derrick Wridgway Durban HQ 1969 Bob Smith Port Elizabeth 1968 Rob Rohrey Hollland 1989 Jan Steenkamp Springs 1968 Dup DuPlessis Potgieterrust 1968 Mohan/Moodley Durban 1968 David Passmore London HQ 1970 Peter Bush Matubatuba/ Dumall 1980 David Passmore Tunbridge Wells 1972 David Passmore Lymington HQ 2004 David Passmore Wadhurst HQ 1982 David Passmore High Rocks HQ 1975 John Hitchens London Weekend TV 1976 Roy Easterbrook Kings College London 1980 David Waters Tonbridge 1980 Mahmood Fakrho Bahrain 1982 Andre Labouchardiere 1982 Robiie Rowe Paddock Wood 1983 Peter Morley Hastings 1985 Neil Starks East Grinstead 1987 Keith Wright Uckfield 1990 Nicki Charnick Crowborough 1992 Peter Robinson Croydon 1989 Mike Clapham Southampton 2019 Keith Molyneux Bransgore 2020 D Waghorne David Golding Arundel 2020 Roy Easterbrook Ely 1986 Mick Spellman Hayes 1985 Tony McLaughlin Rickmansworth 1990 Paul Lazarus Harrow 1995 Cobus Calitz New Zealand TBC Rob Rohrey Hollland 2020

A LINEAGE ALL BUT FORGOTTEN SHINSEI DOJO Special Thanks to: Richard Stonell . The Yushinkan (Nakayama Hakudo) NAKAYAMA HAKUDO Hakudo demonstrates proper kiriotoshi Hakudo demonstrating proper striking Takano Sasaburo (left) and Nakayama Hakudo (right) during andemonstration of the Dai Nippon Teikoku Kendo Kata at Noma Dojo Hakudo in bogu while in seiza Hakudo was now renowned around Japan for his skill, however this was not enough for him. He traveled across Japan to study various arts like: Itto Shoden Muto Ryu, Ono ha Itto Ryu, Hokushin Itto Ryu, (Toda) Buko Ryu, Nen Ryu, Shinkage Ryu, Musashi Enmei Ryu, Jigen Ryu, Ichiden Ryu, and Ooki-Isshin Ryu. In his search he found two ryu or schools that would effectively change his life forever, Shinto Muso Ryu () and Muso Shinden Eishin Ryu In 1912 Hakudo began training in Shinto Muso Ryu Jojutsu and calligraphy under Uchida Ryogoro at Shiba Park, Tokyo and with Takeda Kohachi at his residence in Kyobashi, Tokyo. He trained very hard, finding his study of the jo to be among the most valuable of his pursuits. Hakudo wrote: “As a youth I was taught Shinto Muso Ryu by Shihan, Uchida Ryogoro. It was because of this training that I came to understand the Ura or inner methodologies of Kendo. I learned the ins and outs of handling the jo, manipulation of the feet, body mechanics, and other (fundamentals). Even in my Kendo practice I was able (utilize and) cultivate these (Jo) techniques. Thanks to this (integrated) practice I learned a lot. (In the world of martial arts) there are no kata as thoroughly developed as Shinto Muso Ryu Jojutsu’s. I believe Shinto Muso Ryu jojutsu is a national treasure.” In 1916 Hakudo was introduced to Tosa Eishin Ryu by Itagaki Taisuke (a famous Meiji statesmen and a student of Oe Masamichi). Hakudo had learned Iai before in Shindo Munen Ryu, but felt something was missing. He initially approached Oe Masamichi about training, but was rejected. Taisuke saw Hakudo’s resolve to learn the style, however and introduced Hakudo to Hosokawa Yoshimasa of the Muso Shinden Eishin Ryu school (aka. Shinmomura Ha Hasegawa Eishin Ryu) and Morimoto Tokumi of the Goto Ha Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu school (aka. Tanimura Ha Hasegawa Eishin Ryu). Hakudo was accepted as a student of both teachers, making him the first outsider to learn Tosa Eishin Ryu in history. Hakudo trained earnestly and in 1920 the Nippon Butokukai awarded Hakudo the title of Hanshi in both Kendo and Iaido. Around this time Hakudo was said to have received Menkyo Kaiden in jojutsu from Uchida Ryogoro prior to his death in 1921 (though this is greatly debated). After receiving his certification Hakudo did something unexpected: he took what he learned and created his own version of Shinto Muso Ryu, commonly referred to as Nakayama-no-Jo, along with a set of five kihon (basic drills). Shimizu Takaji was said to have later incorporated Hakudo’s five kihon into his set of twelve some years later. In 1922 Hakudo was awarded Menkyo Kaiden in Goto Ha Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu from Tokumi and Menkyo in Muso Shinden Eishin Ryu from Yoshimasa. Contrary to popular belief, however Hakudo did not recieve Menkyo Kaiden from Yoshimasa. Hakudo continued to visit both Yoshimasa and Tokumi in Kochi. During his time there Hakudo trained with Yoshimasa at his house. He maintained a very good relationship with Yoshimasa until his death in 1923. In 1925 Hakudo was asked by the head fencing instructor of the Rikugun Toyama Academy (a military academy) to assist him in creating a system of Gunto Soho ( ) or methods of manipulating military swords. Hakudo, through his research developed five standing iai kata that made the foundation of the Toyama Ryu Guntojutsu system. In the same year Hakudo supported Noma Seiji in the construction and development of the famed Noma dojo. Noma Dojo became a vessel for men and women of various ryu-ha or schools to test their skills and exchange their ideas with other kenshi. In 1927 at the age of fifty-five he received the rank of Hanshi in Jodo from the Nippon Butokukai. In 1930 Hakudo was called on by the Butokukai to demonstrate Muso Shinden Eishin Ryu publicly (outside of Kochi) for the first time in history. Hakudo had a problem though: he never recieved Menkyo Kaiden in the system. As such, during the demonstration he presented the art as ”Muso Shinden Ryu Battojutsu” (). This was done to avoid any altercations that might come from him using the school’s name. In 1933 Hakudo restructured what he learned in Kochi into Muso Shinden Ryu () using the Chinese characters for dream or vision. The Yushinkan once a training hall exclusively for Shindo Munen Ryu and Gekiken under Negishi Shingoro; became a dojo for several martial arts. Students of the Yushinkan (under Hakudo) were selected to learn specific styles. Men like Nakayama Zendo and Hashimoto Toyo learned everything while others like Nakakura Kiyoshi, Danzaki Tomoaki and Nakajima Gozoro learned only Muso Shinden Ryu Iaido and Kendo. In his time Hakudo had seen the death of stylized Gekiken and the birth of modern Kendo. In 1934 he and his contemporary Takano Sasaburo demonstrated the Dai Nippon Teikoku Kendo Kata at the Tenranjiai while Emperor Hirohito watched on. Both Hakudo and Takano were highly commended for their performances. Kendo gained popularity and Hakudo along with Takano Sasaburo became among (if not) the most requested teachers in Japan. They traveled the country teaching at universities, police stations, military bases, Japanese Government installations, and even the Imperial Palace. Hakudo’s students ran into the tens of thousands. In fact over two thirds of those who held the rank of kyoshi with the Nippon Butokukai had studied with Hakudo to some effect. World War II was a desperate time for Japan. The proud Japanese Military was being pushed back by Allied Forces. Japan had now become a target to American firebombing. Japanese buildings largely made of wood and built in close proximity to other residences became mere kindle for Allied bombs. Tokyo and other cities were decimated. This accompanied by the destruction Hiroshima and Nagasaki via Atomic Weapons brought about Japan’s formal surrender on September 2nd, 1945. Hakudo was quick to use his influence, using the Japanese idiom “a samurai never talks (bad mouths) about what is finished” Hakudo asked people to meet their American occupiers with dignity. “In fencing we call ‘ohen‘ () the spirit or ability to adapt one’s self to the change. What this means is in a condition where after understanding and acknowledging the natural tide of affairs (what has happened), all past ambitions (or goals) must be given up. In doing so one can reach the state of nothingness. This requires noble heart. It (nothingness) is the ultimate goal of fencing. We must meet the Allied Army with such a spirit. Yesterday they were our enemies, but today they are not. If we fail not to think of them as enemies, then it cannot be said that we (the Japanese) truly understand Bushido. If there is even the smallest feeling of ill will remaining in our hearts and if we cannot take a broader outlook, it will to show in our faces and attitude, giving reason for them (Allied soldiers) to think of us as cowardly. I am of the personal belief that the greatness of a nation lies in its open-mindedness.” The end of the war brought on many hardships. In an effort to pacify the Japanese people Japanese martial arts were banned. This brought Hakudo in cooperation with his compatriots to fight for the right to practice martial arts in Japan. Eventually through the help of Sasamori Junzo, Kuroda Yasuji, and Kunii Zenya the ban on martial arts as a whole was eventually lifted. Japanese could practice martial arts again. Hakudo’s victory brought about harsh realities however. Many of his most dedicated students died in the war, with even fewer of the surviving returned to train. Budo fell into decline. Hakudo felt a change was needed. Hakudo restructured Muso Shinden Ryu for the general populous. The attempt was to reduce the aggressive nature of the kata and emphasize the more spiritual side of the ryu. Certain aspects of the kata were changed to reflect this. Omori Ryu’s Gyakuto for example, pre-war ended with stabbing the teki in the back of the head. Hakudo later changed the stab into Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu’s todome, which was considered a more merciful coup de grâce. Hakudo demonstrating proper Nukitsuke Nakayama Hakudo (right), Hashimoto Toyo (left), HasegawaEishin Ryu: Oroshi (*Authors note* the Pre-War Gyakuto Todome was done far differently than what most iaido-ka do it today. The sword was raised high in the air and caught on the mune of the blade with the middle finger. Then after flattening the palm against back of the blade, it was thrust into the part of the head where the spine meets the skull [US. Marine Scout Snipers were taught to shoot the same spot]. The Yushinkan preserved this method). Hakudo did have several regrets. In his Kendo Koshutsujyu or Collection of Oral dictations on Kendo, Hakudo talked about his regret over a style he kept in secrecy from most of his students. The style of Hayashizaki Jinsuke Minamoto no Shigenobu. Hakudo intended all of his serious students to learn all of his arts. Only those students who pursued and progress in all of Hakudo’s arts had access to what Hakudo called Hayashizaki Hon Ryu () or the real teachings of Hayashizaki Jinsuke Shigenobu. According to Hakudo only nine people learned the first inner tier of the school; they were: Otuska Iwao (Menkyo) Hasegawa Minoshiro (Menkyo) Ohayashi Jungo (Menkyo) Sakonji Tadaichi (Menkyo) Nakayama Zendo (Menkyo) Aoki Eizou (Menkyo) Hashimoto Toyo (Menkyo) Mukuta Kozou (Menkyo) Suhara Sugematsu (Menkyo) Hakudo added that only four individuals surpassed them by learning all the kata and in effect achieving Menkyo Kaiden, their names were: Nakayama Zendo (Menkyo Kaiden) Hashimoto Toyo (Menkyo Kaiden) Mukuta Kozou (Menkyo Kaiden) Sakonji Tadaichi (Menkyo Kaiden) Hakudo said, it was his intention to teach the Hayashizaki Hon Ryu () school more, but by the end of the war he lacked the proper time and suitable candidates to do so. This is not to say that Hakudo did not foster or teach his other students. Less than a handful of outstanding students ever received any traditional ranking (ie. Densho) from Hakudo. The most notable of them were perhaps Matsuo Kenpu and Kimura Eijyu, who received Menkyo Kaiden in Muso Shinden Ryu Iaido (). The man called “The Last (True) Martial Artist” () died in 1958 at the age of eighty-five. Hakudo was survived by his son Nakayama Zendo to whom he passed all of his knowledge onto. Hakudo demonstrates the kata Junto CLICK HERE TO READ THE GLOSSARY OF TEACHERS AND INFLUENCERS Introduction There are few martial artists in history who have been able to influence an entire generation of politicians, military personnel, police, educators, and civilians alike. Who’s student’s (if only for a day) talked about their experiences with him in detail nearly seventy years after his death. The first San-Dou-no-Hanshi in history. The “God of Kendo” () Nakayama Hakudo. Nakayama Hakudo was arguably the most influential martial artist in modern history. Many instructors and students around the world claim to have some “connection” to him, having practiced some form or another of his Iaido. Yet, these same people (in Japan and abroad) know little more than his name. Only by looking at his humble origins, ambitions, accomplishments, and outlooks can we come closer to understanding the man and his styles. Nakayama Hakudo Second Generation Headmaster of the Yushinkan Dojo Second Generation Headmaster of Kanto Ha Shindo Munen Ryu Kenjutsu Creator of Muso Shinden Ryu Iaido and Nakayama no Jo KendoIaidoJodoSan-Dou-no-Hanshi Nakayama Otsuyoshi () was born in in Imae, Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture in 1873, the eighth son of former Maeda clansman Nakayama Gennosho. At the age of five his family moved to Nakacho in Toyama where they opened a small yakitori restaurant located in East Sogawa Merchant Lane. The restaurant was located on the first avenue off of Main Street, and was a modest shop by most accounts. At age eight the young Otsuyoshi came to work in local inn (ryokan: a Japanese traditional inn) called “Toyama Hall” located just two streets over from his family’s yakitori shop. There in Toyama Hall he worked in the kitchen. As his luck would have it the manager of the inn, one Takazawa Toyoshi (a kind and loving man by all accounts) encouraged the young Otsuyoshi to pursue swordsmanship after seeing the eight year old playing with a bokken (wooden sword) fashioned from a tree branch. At age eleven he gained entrance to Saito Michinori’s dojo of the Yamaguchi Ha Itto Ryu school of swordsmanship in Hoshiicho off Sogawa Lane. The young Otsuyoshi had a busy schedule. In the morning he would travel to Nishi-jubucho where he learned how to read and write at the Ada Kanji Academy (a supplementary school). In the afternoon after school he would go to Michinori’s dojo where he to trained in Yamaguchi Ha Itto Ryu. He then went straight from the dojo to work at the “Toyama Hall.” Otsuyoshi progressed under his various teachers until a visitor from Tokyo changed his life forever. A swordsman of sizable skill by the name of Hosoda Kenzo took up residence in the “Toyama Hall”. Kenzo, an educator by trade was just transferred to Toyama by The Ministry of Education. He was a member of the Yushinkan Dojo (), a Shindo Munen Ryu school run by Negishi Shingoro. Highly impressed the young Otsuyoshi talked to Kenzo for hours. Kenzo’s stories and insights into swordsmanship left a great impression on the Otsuyoshi, ultimately shaping his entire life. In 1890 Kenzo handed in his letter of resignation to the Toyama school district and returned to Toyko. His departure left the young Otsuyoshi with many questions. Otsuyoshi felt it was time. He received permission from his family and employer to travel to Tokyo to pursue kenjutsu. Takazawa was kind enough to escort the young Otsuyoshi to Iwasehama, a small port in Toyama Prefecture. There Otsuyoshi boarded a ship to Naoetsu, Niigata Prefecture. At Naoetsu he boarded a steam ship that sailed to Ueno, Tokyo. It was there on the open Japanese Sea that Otsuyoshi, with the cold sea air on his face remembered the words of Takazawa: “Otsuyoshi, you’ll be a man who other men fall in love with“. These words stuck with Otsuyoshi well into his adulthood. Otsuyoshi arrived in Tokyo in 1891. There, armed with a letter of introduction from Kenzo, Otsuyoshi was successfully admitted into Shingoro’s Yushinkan at the age of eighteen. Otsuyoshi trained hard, changing his name to Hakudo () at age nineteen. Shingoro encouraged him to study other styles and literature. He tried his hand at various ryu, or schools, sleeping only four hours a day so that he could attend around five-six practices a day. Hakudo was not perfect, however and had several bad habits to overcome. In shiai geiko Hakudo’s hip rose every time before a strike, telegraphing his intentions to his opponent. In order to correct this Hakudo was forced to wear stones around his waist to improve his center of gravity. To learn to execute suri-ashi in a more effective way, Hakudo was made to wear geta (Japanese wooden sandals) with a loose thread. This allowed him to develop a type of scraping suri-ashi, making his movement harder to see. Hakudo’s intense dedication paid off and he rapidly advanced through the ranks. In 1906 he fought the bouts that came to define his early career as a swordsmen. At the Dai Nippon Butokusai Enbu Taikai he defeated Ozawa Jiro and Takano Shigeyoshi of the Hokushin Itto Ryu school, Koseki Kiyomasa of the Muhen Ryu school, and Sasaki Masanobu of the Suifu Ryu. At twenty three he received Jun-Menkyo and at twenty-seven was licensed Menkyo, Inkyo. At twenty-eight he was named Daihan or “Acting Headmaster” and was married to Shigoro’s daughter. Thus, Hakudo was adopted into the Negishi family (becoming Negishi Hakudo). In 1912 Shingoro elected Hakudo to take his place on the committee responsible for creating the Dai Nippon Teikoku Kendo Kata. There were several problems, however and both Hakudo and his wife separated from the Negishi Family for personal reasons, rejoining the Hakudo Family. Hakudo then built his own dojo in Masagocho, Hongo ward (present day Bunkyo ward) and was given permission to use the Yushinkan name.

ZEELAND DOJO FOUNDED IN 1989 CLUBHOUSE AMMEKORE HERTENWEG 2 4455 TL TL NIEUWDORP ZEELAND NETHERLANDS TUESDAYS at 7.00pm TO 9.00 pm BEGINNERS WELCOME Classes are held in a vibrant atmosphere where students benefit from some of the highest quality tuition available in the Netherlands today. Disciplines KARATE - TRADITIONAL KYUSHO JUTSU - TRADITIONAL JU JITSU - KODOKWAN KORYU-JUJITSU Chief Instructor ROBERT ROHREY 5TH DAN rob@budokan-netherlands.nl www.budokan-netherlands.nl Dojo Assistant AUGUST MELIO 3RD DAN SHIHAN ROB ROHREY Here is Sensei Rob Rohrey on a few Kata - (more to come) - and some of the basic stances, punches, blocks, kicks and strikes he teaches his students in Zeeland - in the Deep South of the Netherlands. Pinan Shodan Ananko Stances Kicks Some more basics Some basics

MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION HOW BUDOKAN WORK S Budokan exists as a constituted organisation since 1970 to promote the development of traditional Japanese Budo in the UK and Europe. See Lineage Budokan is responsible for the implementation of a teaching syllabus in the various Dojo or locations, where this syllabus is taught. Budokan confers the right of recognised and appointed instructors within each of these recognised Dojo to teach this syllabus as set down by David Passmore the Founder of Budokan UK. The disciplines taught are Aikido, Iaido, Karatedo and Zen - which means editation. Prospective students come to us for a variety of reasons, and every one of them is encouraged to come to any of our dojo to meet us and see what we do. It is here at this introductory meeting, that a class can be observed and questions can be answered. We explain how we work, our fee structure, how gradings are conducted and introduce you to some of the students present, so that p rospective students can get a “feel” for how things are done. Budokan reserves the right to reject any membership application made to it and further to reserve the right to discipline any member for unacceptable behaviour, in any way it deems appropriate. We have been in existence in the UK for 52 years and have never refused an application. Anyone interested in joining Budokan is encouraged to come for a few classes of practice and training, before a decision is made to become a member. Clothing in the form of a Gi is available for these classes to those who wish to take advantage of this offer, prior to buying their own. See Equipment Classes Each class is taught in such a way, so as to appeal to both the beginner and advanced student alike. Duration Each class lasts around one and a half hours. Eating Please ensure that meals are not taken at least 2 hours before undertaking any training. Membership The full annual membership fee is £50.00 and is payable during the month of January every year. The annual membership fee or part thereof (if joining later in the year) is payable 1 month after commencing classes. Membership Entitlements Classes in Traditional Japanese Budo Events, Seminars and Workshops take place at various times and locations each year. Budokan teaching and philosophy Kyu and Dan Grading Accreditation Entitles members to be graded according to the training schedule laid down by Budokan and to receive certification accordingly. See Certification Registration and recognition of Dan Grades and Titles by Dai Nippon Butokukai (DNBK) - in Kyoto, Japan (There is a separate charge for this) Monthly Learning Fees Training takes place in the Dojo. Learning takes place online in our Library. These fees are not based on attendance at the Dojo only - as just as much learning is taking place online now, which can be accessed at any time and this trend will continue into the future. The learning fee is therefore based on content provided for training in the Dojo, complemented by content available online, including text, audio, pictures and video, only to those who pay this fee, who will have automatic access to the Library by unique password only. These fees are due on the first day of each month, and are variable from year to year. All fees are paid initially by bank transfer and then by Monthly Standing Order or Direct Debit We pride ourselves in trying to provide the very best tuition for all of our members at all times. GRADINGS AND RECOGNITION Budokan confers its grades and ranks onto its exponents of Japanese Budo disciplines that it teaches, in much the same way as the Classical Bujutsu Menkyo system operated and still found in some Ryu in Japan today. Gradings radings do not take place as a form of a test on a given day. Budokan “gradings” take place each and every time a student comes to train in the dojo by peer review, where things like attitude, respect, loyalty, courtesy, diligence, compassion and attendance are all closely observed. Grades are awarded annually duriing the last Workshop of each year and when required at courses such as Workshops that take place throughout each year. Kyu Grades - Mudansha - All ranks below Black Belt are awarded verbally and result in the student being recognised for the progress made up to Dan Grade rank. All students start out wearing a white belt, then move up to green belt and on to brown belt in recognition of the progress being made. At the appropriate time the student will be invited to prepare for their Shodan or First Black Belt one year in advance of taking this grading. Students who have had previous experience in Budo may be asked to prepare for their Shodan or First Black Belt, if approved of by the Shihankai or Senior Dan Grade members or officers of the Dojo. In the first instance, the training schedule is applied to four elements. Zanshin – literally translated as “the observation of the opponent or situation before, during and after the execution of the technique”. Waza – the technical ability in the performance of technique. It is part of Zanshin and includes posture, stance, strength, stamina and flexibility. Aite no keiko – Partner Practice. The ability to function with a partner incorporating Zanshin and Waza. Koko no keiko – Individual Practice. The ability to express Zanshin and Waza on one’s own. In the second instance the grading considers the individual’s:- attendance record contribution to the dojo personal character Dan Grades - Yudansaha All eligible Kyu grade students are allowed to take their Black Belt Dan Grades by invitation only under the same peer review process. Budokan will only award its coveted Black Belt in Budo to those who have accomplished an advanced level in Karate, Aikido and Iaido. Budokan only provides certification for Dan Grades and these certificates are awarded once a year at the annual end of year Workshop, which takes place in early December. Black Belt or Shodan certified students will be invited to wear the hakama as part of their dojo apparel, which makes them instantly recognisable as a Dan Grade. All Dan Grades are eligible to be registered with the Dai Nippon Butokukai (DNBK) in Kyoto, Japan by discipline - as recommended by Budokan. There is a charge from the DNBK for this accreditation. Further guidelines for Dan Grade holders Dan means step. So holding a 1st Dan is simply the first step along the journey. It is the base camp and not the smmit of the mountain of a lifetime dedication to training, so often depicted as just that in the West. In Japan, it is simply a step from nothing to something on the lowest rung of the Dan Grade ladder. In Japan you will need to have the rank of Godan - 5 Dan - before you are recogised as having devoted many years to training. Recmmendation is based on years of training, skill prowess, accmplishments, dedication and service, teaching and instruction and excellence in personal character. SEE ACCREDITATION AND CERTIFICATION . It is important that all students have the correct clothing and equipment in order to practice traditional Japanese Budo safely. Budokan adopts a "No Gi - No Training" rule. You will need a white Gi to practise - see below. You will not be allowed to practice without one. For the forst month of training Budokan can provide new members with a Gi to wear at no charge. Just let us know and we will arrange one for all new members without a Gi. After the first month, new members will be required to buy their own Gi. This equipment can be ordered through Budokan via Nine Circles - a UK based importer, who we recommend for all equipment for beginners and new students. We have a discount arrangement in place with them for our members. Please ask for further information. Click any of the three llinks below, to view the exact recommended items for all new members and beginners. CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT Aikido Gi - Intermediate 500g Sashiko Ori All these gi have been preshrunk - but on a hot wash and dryer - there is a little further shrinkage. Height Chart Feet/InchesCm Feet/InchesCm 5’ 2”1603 5’ 9”1805 5’ 4”1653.5 6’ 0”1855.5 5’ 55”1704 6’ 2”1906 5’ 7”1754.5 6’ 5”1956.5 Within the first three months all new members will need to buy a wooden sword (bokken) and staff (jo) for training purposes. Shiro Kashi White Oak Bokken 102cm Product Code Daito Includes Tsuba and Dome Shiro Kashi White Oak Jo Total length 127cm 2.5cm in diameter Product code – Jo Budokan is a member of the Nine Circles Giri discount scheme on mpst of their clothing and equipment. If yoiu are a member of Budokan and wish to benefit from discounts on offer - just email us and we will send y iou our username and passward. You can then buy direct. AFTER THE FIRST THREE YEARS MOST STUDENTS WILL WANT TO UPGRADE THEIR EQUIPMENT AND BUDOKAN WILL THEN RECOMMEND BUYING DIRECT FROM JAPAN FROM RELIABLE SOURCES KNOWN TO US.

BUDOKAN KARATE IN JEFFREYS BAY 14 TECOMA STREET JEFFREYS BAY SOUTH AFRICA 6330 EVERY WEEKDAY MORNING AT 10AM BEGINNERS WELCOME 1960 - 2022 Classes are held in a vibrant atmosphere where students benefit from some of the highest quality tuition available in SA today. Discipline KARATE Chief Instructor LOEK LATEGAN 7 DAN BREAKING NEWS 11 December 2020 Chief Instructor Loek Lategan received the news that two of his most loyal students had been awarded their Dan Grades after many years of continuous training as follows: Cobus Calitz 6th Dan Karate Marie Perelis 2nd Dan Karate Congratulations to all concerned. Marie Petrelis

CERTIFICATION With over 60 years of experience and technical excellence to draw on we provide only Black Belt Rank and Title recognition and accreditation to teachers, instructors, dojo leaders and students across all disciplines as a single discipline or as a multi-discipline, on recommendation only. THERE IS A CERTIFICATE OF GRADE OR RANK AND A CERTIFICATE OF TITLE. Each certificate has different wording in English and Japanese. The Certificate of Grade or Rank application is normally completed by the Dojo Leader for a current member of their Dojo. In the event of a Dojo Leader application it must come from an accredited source known to and supported by 2 current Dojo Leaders or Associates. THERE IS A FEE FOR A CERTIFICATE OF RANK. Scroll down for Grading Fee structure. A NOTE ON GRADING FEES For many years Budokan adopted a policy of not charging students for Kyu and Dan grade certification. This decision was justified on the common knowledge of grading systems becoming open to malpractice by officials of larger martial arts groups for the purpose of raising funds. When budokanworld.com was launched in 2010 we decided to ask the Dojo Leaders in the UK/EU/US and other countries, what a fair fee would be to pay for Dan Grades only issued by Budokan. After a few months of deliberation the Dojo Leaders generally felt that Budokan had real value in the technical excellence of their Dan Grades and suggested a number of options from which Budokan settled on the fair and reasonable Fee Structure below which, needless to say is below that which was presented. This is an image of the Budokan Certificate of Rank. and is for visual purposes only. English wording for each of the certificates will appear in the space on the left and the Japanese katakana in the space on the right. This beautiful work of art has been designed by Katy Passmore. They are all printed on Magnolia Parchment. Paper size A3. Explanation of the Henko The larger square Henko is the Seal of Budokan The smaller round Henko are the personal signatures from left to right of Darren Waghorne Rob Rohrey David Passmore Peter Bush Roy Estabrook Kyoshi Godan Saisho Sensei Kyoshi Godan CERTIFICATE OF RANK Recommendation is based on grading record, years of continuous training, technical skill prowess, accomplishments, dedication and service, attitude, teaching and instruction, heart, values and excellence in personal character. General Ranking guide to the timeline of consecutive years of training. Shodan 1st Dan 1-3 years Nidan 2nd Dan 3-5 years Sandan 3rd Dan 5-8 years Yondan 4th Dan 8-12 years Godan 5th Dan 12-18 years Rokudan 6th Dan 18 – 25 years Shichidan 7th Dan 25 – 32 years Hachidan 8th Dan 32- 45 years HOW IT WORKS 1 Each Dojo leader nominates a person or persons for accreditation and certification by Peer Review* directly to Budokan. These requests may be retrospective. 2 Kindly go to ACCREDITATION for the detail of what is required. 3 Upon receipt of this information by email and any attached documentation, we examine the credentials and all endorsements in text, pictorial audio or video format in support of the application. 4 We defer to two of our Community Dojo Leaders to assist us in the examination of those disciplines outside of our remit - such as Ju Jitsu, Kodokan Judo, Kendo and Kobudo. The personal Henko of each of these examiners will appear on the Certificate of Rank along with the Henko of the Doshu Richard Salmon and Kyoshi David Passmore. 5 A period of 6-8 weeks needs to be factored into the review process. 6 Once a decision has been reached either way, the recommender is informed directly by email. 7 If approved, an appropriate certificate is drawn up, dated, numbered and photographed with the appropriate Henko in place. This photographic evidence of Rank will be placed on the appropriate Dojo Page (in the public domain) for all to see. It wi also be registered for copyright protection and placed in our Dan Grade (Black Belt) Register. 8 If not approved, the recommender is informed as to the reasons why this decision has been reached by email and if appropriate offer outline measures to take that will allow a repeat application to take place within 12 months at no further cost to the applicant. 9 All certificates will be carefully rolled up and inserted into a secure tube and sent by post to the recommender to pass on or direct to the receiver, as appropriate. A signature will be required at each destination if possible. * Peer Review functions as a form of self-regulation by qualified members of our Traditional Japanese Budo Community. Recommendations for a person to be awarded a Certificate of Rank, who is no longer active in Budo may also be considered in appropriate circumstances . CERTIFICATE OF RANK FEE STRUCTURE All fees are shown in £GBP 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Shodan Nidan Sandan Yondan Godan Rokudan Chichidan Hachidan 75.00 100.00 130.00 175.00 220.00 260.00 300.00 340.00 CERTIFICATE OF TITLE The Certificate of Title is conferred as an huge honour to bestow upon an individual Budoka deserving of this honour - see below for further definition. We undertake to seek the majority approval from all current Dojo Leaders for each recommendation. If no such majority is reached then Budokan will withdraw its application for a minimum of 12 months. THERE IS NO FEE REQUIRED FOR A CERTIFICATE OF TITLE. (Only a small production cost for the Certificate of Title and Posting and Packaging) The award of Titles is made using the ancient Shogoo system, as used by the Dai Nippon Butokukai of Kyoto in Japan, to those who have made an outstanding contribution to the development of Traditional Japanese Budo, shown leadership in teaching and the maintenance of a high level of Budo skills over decades of continuous service. Shogoo is bestowed upon a highly qualified individual of integrity ad honour with a proven record of achievement in all phases of their Budo. Renshi - Polished Samurai Warrior Kyoshi - Master Teacher Samurai Warrior Hanshi - Exemplary Illustrious Warrior - Master of the Samurai Way In Reference to the three titles Renshi, Kyoshi and Hanshi Ren = A Trainer of the Way Kyo = A Teacher of the Way Han = A Model of the Way Dojo Officials Sempai - a leading instructor Shidoin - a leading head instructor Shihan - a master instructor (For more details please email us at idavid@budokanworld.com ) FURTHER NOTES OF INTEREST ON JAPANESE BUDO TITLES 1. Sensei "Teacher or One who has gone before": This title is by far the most often used title in karate and generally refers to someone of Yon-Dan level (4th Degree Black Belt.) Many senior instructors including Hanshi Masami Tsuruoka, wi ll state that this is the most honorable title that a student can use when referring to the senior as their teacher. The title Sensei implies a close bond between the student and teacher's relationship. 2. Shihan: "Master or Expert Teacher": It is important to understand that the meaning Master as used in the martial arts is someone who has mastered the basic and advanced understandings {Principles} of a particular style or system, thus the title Shihan means someone who has mastered the basic and advanced techniques as well as the principles, concepts, and theory of their respective style of karate. The title Shihan does not mean that this person has stopped learning because they know all of the answers. On the contrary, they are considered to be the most serious and dedicated students in any style of martial arts. The title Shihan is generally considered to be an organizational title alone and has little meaning (May not be recognized) outside of the holders style or organization. 3. Doshi: "Leading Teacher": Title sometimes used before Renshi (3rd dan) 4. Renshi: "Senior Expert Teacher": This is the first of the three generally used teacher titles. Although this title is independent of rank, it is seldom given to anyone below the rank of Go-Dan. (5th dan) 5. Tasshi or Tesshi: "Apprentice Master Teacher": This title was originally the title used instead of Kyoshi. 6. Kyoshi: "Master Teacher, Teacher of Teachers": This is the second of the three generally used teacher titles. Although this title is independent of the ranking system, it is seldom given to anyone below the rank of Roku-dan and in most cases Shichi-dan). (7th dan) 7. Hanshi: "Senior Master Teacher": This is the third and highest of the three generally used teacher titles. Although this title is independent of the ranking system, it is seldom given to anyone below the rank of Hachi-Dan (8th Degree Black Belt) 8. Iemoto / Soke An iemoto may be addressed by the title Iemoto or O-iemoto, or by the title Sōshō or Ō-sensei In English. "Grand Master" is often the title that is used. The Iemoto's main roles are to lead the school and protect its traditions, to be the final authority on matters concerning the school, to issue or approve licenses and certificates and, in some cases, to instruct the most advanced practitioners

DAVID PETER PASSMORE 16.04.46 - 23.10.24 It is with great sadness and regret that we report the passing of Saisho no Sensei, David Peter Passmore, who died on 23 October 2024 following a long battle with cancer. David began his martial arts career in 1962 when he joined Budokan South Africa. He successfully represented the province (county) of Natal at various tournaments and at the South African Games. In 1970 he founded Budokan UK in London and in 1974 began traditional Aikido training under Chiba Sensei. In 1975 he was placed under the guidance of Kanetsuka Sensei and acted as ‘uchideshi’ to him. David also trained under Ueshiba Kisshomaru, Sekiya Masatake, Tamura Nobuyoshi, Saito Morihiro, Yamada Yoshimitsu, Yamaguchi Seigo, Sekiya Masatake, and many other eminent Japanese and European teachers, across Europe in Amsterdam, Brussels, Frankfurt, Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Toulon and Nice.In 1978 he began training in Muso Shinden Ryu Iaido under Ishido Shizafumi and Hiroi Sensei of Zen Nippon Kendo Renmei, under the tutelage of Vic Cook within the British Kendo Association. David was a student of Zazen and practised Shikantaza every day in the tradition of the Soto Sect of Zen Buddhism. To our knowledge he remains the only senior Western Teacher to introduce Zazen as the 4th discipline of Budokan, which became a formal part of its Teaching and Philosophy.At the time of his passing David held the title of Kyoshi with the Dai Nippon Butokukai (DNBK) in Kyoto, one of Japan’s oldest traditional martial arts organisations, and holds the ranks of 7 Dan Karate, 6 Dan Aikido and 6 Dan Iaido with them. Upon receiving the news of David’s passing Hanshi Hamada confirmed that, “based on his longstanding dedication and contribution to the development of Japanese traditional Budo in the Uk, the DNBK posthumously honour him as Hanshi Title and that the DNBK would conduct a Flag Ceremony in his honour at the forthcoming WBS in Kyoto Japan where he will be enshrined in the DNBK ID Martial Arts Hall of Fame. David is the founder of Budokan World which now has many international affiliates.David was a consummate teacher even whilst suffering greatly from cancer he used every experience to provide lessons to Shihonkai members so that they should learn from his teaching that death is not to be feared and that he expects to pass from this world into another where he looks forward to meeting us there. David is survived by his wife Katy and three Children, Caroline, Duncan and Tilly, Eight Grand Children, Eve, Hattie and Niah, Lowri, Aimee, Oliver and Joshua. We remember Torin who passed away January 2022 Shihonkai Budokan

DEAL DOJO ROY ESTABROOK HAS NOW MOVED TO DEAL IN KENT WHERE HE IS TO OPEN A NEW BUDOKAN DOJO SOON. WE WILL BRING YOU NEWS OF THAT OF COURSE..... MEANWHILE HERE IS HIS AUTOBIOGRAPHY. My journey in the Japanese M artial Arts began in 1972, aged 18 when I enrolled in the Budokan UK Northolt Karate dojo run by Sensei David Passmore. At th at time there were two classes on a Tuesday and a Thursday evening in a school gym. I attended both of those. There were a lot of people interested in taking up Martial Arts so Sensei had to run two classes each night. One for beginners which ran for 90 minutes and one for Kyu grades which ran for two hours. We only practiced Karate in those early years, and my first grading certificate says Budo-ryu karate grade 6th kyu. I can remember registering on my first evening of training. Standing in a queue with Sandi Groom who was sitting by the entrance, taking names down. It was intimidating at first but I remember over all it was a welcoming atmosphere. Each class usually consisted of Kihon, Ippon Kumite and Kata. Sometimes the beginners class was run by Sandi Groom or Marion Tinkler. We didn't have a lot of female students so it was good to have these two formidable and pioneer women leading the class. By the time I reached my Shodan grading in 1977 , Aikido had become an intrinsic part of the practice. I took the grading with two other students, and we had to go through four preparation classes at the High Rocks dojo which was then the Hombu dojo. To say they were demanding would be a huge understatement but they did prepare us well for what was to come. We also had to write four short essays on different subjects relating to our practice. The memories of that day are as strong as ever and receiving my black belt from Sensei was a great moment. Under the technical direction of Sensei David Passmore, I became Chief Instructor at the King's College Dojo on the Strand in London. Around the same time, I was promoted to Chief Instructor of the Northolt dojo when it was relocated to a new home. The new premises at Northolt allowed us to have a mat down permanently as we were the sole user of the premises. It also had an area outside where we could practice in the summer months. Instructing at two dojos meant that I was teaching five sessions a week thus finessing my teaching skills and style. I would also attend the Sunday training class that Sensei held at the High Rocks dojo. The King's College Dojo expanded very quickly. The classes were on a Wednesday evening from 7pm to 9pm, and Saturday Morning from 11am to 1pm. We were the only Martial Arts club at the college then, and interest was high. We often had up to fifty beginner students training. Sensei would come to teach once a month at the Saturday morning class. We held Gashkyu at King's College on a regular basis under his guidance, usually to combine with Gradings. It was at the Christmas Gashkyu on the 6th December 1980 that I was proud to receive my Nidan grade. The first time that Sensei had awarded that prestigious grade. A few years later, the Northolt dojo closed for land redevelopment and I took this opportunity to open a new dojo in Edgware. Eventually the Edgware dojo changed venue to Bounds Green where Roger Tym was the instructor. I moved to Cambridgeshire where I would continue to teach. It was a time of tremendous growth in Budokan, and for myself as I was able to guide and teach Kyu grades through to their Shodan. During this period, our Gashkyu were held at the National Sports centre in Crystal Palace. They consisted of two day residential seminars on weekends. The Sunday Morning class started with Shinkantaza at 7am before breakfast. Despite the raucous traditional party on the Saturday evening, most students would attend the Zazen. Sensei would invite guest instructors to teach on different sections on the mat. Sensei Vic Cook came and taught one memorable Iaido class. It was at a Gashkyu at Crystal Palace in April of 1982 that I was granted my Sandan. Sensei David Passmore always encouraged his students to expand their knowledge of the Martial Arts and I attended Aikido courses taught by different Sensei. These included Sensei Saito , Sensei Tamura, Sensei Tomita, and Sensei Minoru Kanetsuka when he was invited to our club for a two-day course. It was a very intensive weekend and I think I've still got a right shoulder injury to remember him by. For the first two hours of the opening session, he concentrated on my favourite Suwariwaza ikkyo before we went through the remaining Katame Waza. In 1991, I received a personal invitation from Master Minoru Mochizuki, founder of his own school of Martial Arts, the Yoseikan Budo. I had been writing to him for advice on matters relating to classical bu-jutsu so I gratefully accepted that invitation to train at his Hombu Dojo in Shizuoka, Japan. Minoru Mochizuki had been Uchi-deshi to Jigoro Kano and to Morihei Ueshiba as well as studying with Gichen Funakoshi. Only two people ever received a Menkyo Kaiden from O'Sensei Morihei Ueshiba: Kenji Tomiki and Minoru Mochizuki. The Yoseikan school's training curriculum was similar to that of Budokan: to practice more than one Martial Art and therefore remain open-minded in your development. I was going to represent Budokan so I felt compelled to intensify my training prior to my travelling to Japan. I stayed at the Yoseikan Hombu Dojo for four weeks and trained relentlessly every single day in order to gain as much understanding as I could from this great teacher. The Dojo operated daily, with Aikido on Monday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday afternoon. Thursday evening was free practice. The Aikido nights always included Karate training. Each session began with the punch bag when a variety of punches and strikes with the hands and elbows were practiced, followed by a full range of kicking techniques. What separates Yoseikan Aiki from other schools is the use of Sutemi Waza [sacrifice throws]. I had never practiced this before and found that this judo influence helped my understanding of Aikido. Just as Jujitsu-influenced Karate increased my own understanding of Karate. I would often practice in the afternoon on my own. I particularly enjoyed using the Dojo's Makiwara. I was told by one of the Master's Uchi-Deshi that he was happy with my progress. This level of commitment led me to be invited back but sadly I could not return. In my work as a Director of Photography, I travelled extensively. I was fortunate enough to visit our Budokan dojo in Bahrain where Mahmoud Fahkro had his club. He kindly asked me to teach some classes and was particularly interested in me leading a kata class. I practiced some T'ai Chi ch'uan in Hong Kong. Our local production fixer introduced me to a t'ai chi teacher who guided me through one t'ai chi form. I was very interested in the passive and active principles of the form and the breathing linked to the movement. I had to get up very early and train in a park before going to work. I was able to practice some Gojo ryu in Australia. I had attended a Gojo ryu classes at home in Ely and I had agreed with the instructor that I would teach him some Aikido in exchange of Gojo ryu Kata Shisochin . He gave me a letter of introduction to a dojo in Sydney where I was able to train on my visit. I was awarded my Yondan on the 21st November 1987 at a Gashkyu in Wadhurst. The same hall that I had achieved my Shodan. I have always considered the martial Art studied within Budokan to be of the highest quality and when Kyoshi asked me to be on the Shihankai, I was truly honoured to be involved. I hope my experience can be of benefit as we continue to diligently study on our chosen path. One of the most treasured memories I have is being able to do some Zazen at Sigiriya rock in SriLanka - a place of Buddhist retreat and meditation for as far back as the 3rd century BC. Budokan is the only Martial Arts organisation that I know of that includes Zazen as part of its programme. Studying the Martial Arts has had a major influence on my life, and with the formal introduction of Zazen into the training syllabus back in the 1980's perhaps the biggest influence of all.