At 10 a.m. their Kobudo training started with Sensei Gakiya. After the warm up they continued with todays topic, the sai. Having practiced the basic techniques Sensei Gakiya taught them combinations of Bo versus Sai where the students had to work in pairs. After this he continued his teaching with showing and explaning different Sai Katas (Ni Cho Sai, San Cho Sai). Most of the students went on with their study of Katas under supervision of Sensei Yogi whereas some advanced students were taught in Shinbaru No Sai by Sensei Gakiya.

Having said this, Yannick wrote that they had a guest today visiting their training. Sensei Kenichi Yamashiro, who is known for his proficieny in Sansetsukon (three section staff), had also trained under the late Sensei Shinpo Matayoshi just like Sensei Gakiya did.

Topic of todays Chi Ryu Aiki-Jitsu training at the afternoon was the programme for the 1. Dan. Among other things Shihan Jhonny Bernaschewice showed combinations of Shiho nage, Kote gaeshi, San kyo and Koshi guruma. Having finished this part of todays schedule everyone rushed into a shop in order to buy an umbrella. Why? It was raining cats and dogs over there!

They also made a plan for tomorrow because they are going to dive and snorkel.

After finishing everything the whole group was invited for dinner by the owner of the Minshuku. The woman had prepared traditional Okinawa food. Yannick wrote the following:

“In short, it was delicious!”

Stay tuned for more news …

Upps, here are some more impressions from the Budokan in Naha.