News

Saturday 8th February was the first day of the Washinkai Winter Gasshuku, held at the Nuffield Fitness Centre in Chichester.

A well attended Gasshuku despite many senior instructors being unable to attend.

The three hour course went quickly on Saturday and finished with Alex Harrison from Marsh Academy, Kent, successfully taking his Shodan grading.  

On Sunday 9th February, the second day of the Gasshuku, as well as kumite training, many senior kata were practiced, culminating in Neil Benton 7th Dan and Chief Referee, leading a referee course.

This year the instructors' dinner was held earlier in the month than usual. Taking place at The Talbot Inn, Ripley, Surrey we had a very enjoyable evening.  

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Graham Smith Trophy. This year's recipient was Calum Mendham 5th Dan of the Hawkinge Club, Kent. 

On Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th October, the Association held its Autumn Gasshuku at the Nuffield Fitness Centre in Chichester.

The weekend was well attended with several of the Association's clubs represented.  All aspects of the Association's syllabus were covered over the two days.

Two students from the South Mitcham Karate Club were successful in gaining their Shodan:  David Wedja and Reuben Willoughby.  Congratulations to them!

The next Gasshuku will be the Winter one which will be held in February 2025.

Sensei Pete Saunders, 4th Dan, instructor at the Dover Karate Club, was recently awarded the National Kindness Award.

This is awarded to adults who have demonstrated an exceptional level of kindness during the 2023/24 school year. 

Below is the text read out by the mother of a young pupil Sensei Pete Saunders was mentoring:

"Pete Saunders is the Caretaker of Guston and is also the karate teacher running classes every week for the pupils of Guston.