This past weekend was a fantastic success; thank you to all that attended and participated in our IOGKA 13th Annual Goshukan Gasshuku in Columbus, GA.   Our attendance is growing every year, as is the variety of martial arts instruction offered. This year was another first for us as we enjoyed the Live Eisa Taiko Drum Performance of the Mirai Kanai Taiko Group during our lunch break on Saturday! This is a very important part of Okinawa martial history, and was the first taiko experience for many in attendance. We were honored when the Taiko Group Director asked those Paul Sabota Sensei, Izumi Shimabukuro-Parker Sensei, my son Kenji, and myself to participate in the final song.

  I am so very proud of all of the students/teachers that came with an open heart and mind. Not one single complaint by anyone. The Okinawan Spirit of Ichariba Chode was present throughout the Gasshuku, and was experienced by all. The Instructors did a wonderful job, and kept everyone involved and exicted about learning something new.

 FRIDAY: The Gasshuku began with a ‘warm-up’ of Ngo Cho Kun Iron Body drills. (Which Kevin Bonner Sensei participated in quite vigorously). For many this was the first time, and they caught on very quickly! Following, was Troy Price Sensei teaching Shuri-Te Jujutsu series of unbalancing, takedowns, and ankle/leg locking techniques. For the attendees that train primarily in Okinawan Karate, this was a brand new and eye-opening experience!

  We finished the evening with promotions:

Izumi Shimabukuro-Parker was promoted to 3-Dan, and received her IOGKA Shidoin/Instructor License.

Keith Klaif was promoted to 2-Dan, and received his IOGKA Assistant Instructor Certification.

 Following the end of training, we all walked down the block to enjoy a live band while eating dinner and enjoying good conversation.