The spring Gasshuku of Washinkai Karate Ireland was held at the Bawnacre Centre in Irvinestown and instruction was by Washinkai Karate founder and chief instructor – Chris Thompson (8th dan).
The special karate training course started on Friday evening 10th May with an adult class where all aspects of karate were covered and the kata, Saifa, was taught.
After a vigorous lesson, Dan Gradings were held for karate students.
Caitlin Finlay-McGovern was successful in taking her 1st Dan black belt, as were Noel Irwin 3rd Dan and Brendan O’Neill 3rd Dan.
The following morning a session was taken by Sensei Thompson for juniors only, again for all the clubs.This always has proved popular.
At the end of this session a very surprised Dave Martin was asked to come to the front of the class to be presented with a crystal decanter donated by his club members in recognition of his gaining 6th Dan at the beginning of this year.
This session was followed by the senior class which was for three hours. After an extremely hard kihon session, Ohyo Gumites 19 and 20 were covered in depth, followed by the kata Saifa and Anan.
The exhausted class then finished the session with sparring.
If you are interested in giving Washinkai Karate a go new members are always welcome and details of available classes can be obtained from Dave Martin at wki@hotmail.co.uk or by phone on 028 6862 8915.