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This was the second occasion that Andy Newman, 5th Dan, hosted the Washinkai Yudansha at his dojo in Medstead, Hampshire.

Shihan Thompson covered the history of the formation of Washinkai in depth. He discussed how in 1975, the Founder of Wado-Ryu, Hironori Ohtsuka, attended class at which Shihan Thompson was teaching. At this time, Ohtsuka explained in depth his philosophy of why karate was so beneficial for people to study.

The 42nd Washinkai National Championships were held at its usual home, Reeds School, Cobham, Surrey, on the 3rd March 2019.

Together with newly qualified Association Officials, over 30 Washinkai Referees, Judges and table staff helped keep the two tatami in constant use throughout the whole day.

It was an exciting competition, with a superb atmosphere amongst all the officials and a great standard of karate from all the competitors. For many, it was their first event of this type and they all seemed to enjoy themselves, asking when the next competition is.

A hugely successful course was held at the Lydd Community Hall on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning.  The course was taken by Shihan Chris Thompson.

Instructors attending with their students were:  Neil Benton 6th Dan, Chris Wateridge 5th Dan, Steven Hensman 4th Dan, Calum Mendam 4th Dan and Pete Saunders 3rd Dan.

Many senior Dan grades from the Washinkai organisation attended.  As Dan gradings are scheduled to take place this Autumn and Winter, the emphasis on this weekends course was on grading techniques.

Students from across the South of England attended a course with Shihan Thompson on Sunday 10th February. 

The ‘3 K’s’ (Kihon, Kata and Kumite) were covered in depth and all karateka participated with enthusiasm and energy.

Many thanks to those who travelled considerable distances to attend.

By all accounts, everyone enjoyed themselves and worked extremely hard!