Waikato Kendo Club

Kendo – The Way of the Sword By Chris Williams  (2013) When I set out to write a piece for this paper on the sword-fighting martial art of Kendo, I had no idea just how challenging it would be, to not only try and capture the true essence of the sport using only paper and pen, but to do so in a seriously short amount of time (I’m writing this the day before it’s due – something many students could relate to). Note this isn’t code for a Wikipedia cut-in-paste. First, a little history: The modern form of Kendo has been distilled from many forms of Japanese sword-based martial arts, known collectively as kenjutsu, and underpinned by the teachings of Zen Buddhism. In 11th century feudal Japan, sword-fighting was the realm of the military man, along with horse riding and archery. While it’s largely accepted that the earliest form of kenjutsu were established during this time, the art truly flourished during the 1600’s; right up until the modernisation of Japan in the 19th centu...

A note after Chou sensei's visit on 17 January 2006 Sunday 29 January 2006 Dear All, I feel sorry to inform you that Chou sensei did not feel well after the six days intensive tour in the South Island and has changed the flight to today (30 January). He said the view in South Island is very beautiful but it was too long for him to stay in the car. And, don't worry, he still has good health. There are 4 Japanese sensei (one 8th Dan and three 7th Dan) are waiting for his return to visit Taiwan. He apologies that he need to go back to Taiwan ealier than his original plan. I just visited him saying Good-Bye and presented the Birthday card ( 84 years old ) and a small gift to him. He is pleased by the card you signed for him. He hopes that I can pass his appreciation to you. The sensei emphasised few things to me and I would like to share them with you. 1. As an instructor, I should always pay attention on the safety and healthy issues . For example, I should ask...

Why we are practicing Kendo and we are still peaceful people? I think it’s a really common question for everyone. Few weeks ago before Rumbudan Taikai, I was talking to my professor and said we would have a competition in Wellington and I need to settle down my topic for my report as soon as possible, so I can get it down before I go. And my professor asked what kind of sport do I do. I answered that it’s a Japanese martial art called Kendo . My professor was so surprised and said that "I take back all the things I said to you and don’t hurt me". I know he is only joking. But in real life, many people just take it for granted that all budo or martial art is equal to violence and even a lot of martial art learners have that kind of thinking as well. Personally, I think it’s not quite the case. I think the reason why we practice budo is that we want to have peace. Like we are learning Kendo, we learn the techniques, the mind set, the self control, but no one ever taught...

--------- Information for Year 2015 Beginners --------- Dates: Ø   Class A:    1.30 – 3 pm  Saturdays 7 March – 27 June (15 sessions) Ø   Class B:    1.30 – 3pm   Saturdays   18 July – 31 October (15 Sessions) Course Information: ·          No previous experience required. ·          Regardless of gender, ages from 8 to 80 are all welcome. ·          First lesson is your Free trial. ·          Fees: 150.00 — for 15 weeks course and equipment rental. ·          Objectives: By the end of the course, you will be ready to put on Bogu (armour) for your Kendo journey as a modern Samurai! Venue: Ø   School of Education ( SOE ) Gym , Gate 4, Hillcrest Road , Hamilton . Ø   Training is open to everyone...

Dear all, A great time was had at Ken's celebration on Wednesday , and AKC were very happy to see a representation from Waikato. Jordan's speech to the dojo was very professional and I think he covered everything that Sam and Marleen had asked very well. The point was made, both from us and by AKC, that we all enjoy such events as an opportunity to re-establish friendships and be part of our larger kendo community. Getting together for a shiai is about "competition", seminars people are often focused on their grading. At informal keiko however, we can be in an attitude of one kendo, to learn from each other and enjoy each others company. Therefore, AKC has extended the invitation to us to practice together at least once every 2-3 months, and we should alternate who travels to each others home. I personally found the evening challenging. It is true that there is "one kendo", and theoretically all people of the same level should have been taught ...

Dear Teams, Below is another clip about cuting small men which found by Robin P.. Please enjoy the movie. http://video.yahoo.com/watch/1780273/5900355 (cutting small men) In fact, that's my sensei -- Dr. Hsu. the Vice President of Republic of China Kendo Association, 7th Dan. He was the National Coach for TW national representitives for 8th, 9th, 10th and 13th World Champs. All achieved the 3rd position (males team). :) He is the first and ever to lead TW team to get so many times award in the World Champs, after a generation gap. Now you know where I came from :) And what I am looking for :) This movie is for the preparation of 8th World Champ. He uses both languages -- Chinese/ Twainese :) That year, I was preparing for my graduated school entrance exam :) If you can read Chinese, below is my sensei's blog in Yahoo. http://tw.myblog.yahoo.com/kendo-one/ Cheers Marleen