Here we are at the end of yet another year and SEKU continues to grow – not necessarily in membership numbers but most certainly in stability, character, depth and integrity.  Top international competitors are moving on to new challenges, having represented SEKU and gained titles throughout the country and Europe during the past few years.  Matt Powell is doing a marvellous job at the Petersfield Karate club and surrounding villages.  Dave Galloway and Matt Smith have recently opened the Southdowns Karate Club that is currently operating in the church Hall in Purbrook, Hants.  Jason Hollister has taken over the reins from Brenda Gilbert at the Lykerrys (now renamed Dobwalls) Karate Club in Cornwall.  These senior members have moved aside and this will enable the younger competitors to come through.  But don’t forget the ladies – earlier this year Julie Brightman from Sensei Alan Lewis’s Crofton Karate Club became both Ladies Individual Veteran Kumite and Kata World Champion in the WJKA World Championships in Belgium.  Michaela Lamport won the 16 – 18 year olds Girls Individual Kata and Brooke Walkin at the same event came runner-up in Girls Individual Kumite and Kata.  Both young ladies are members of Steve Hollister’s Saltash Karate Club.

Devon and Cornwall featured well toward the end of this year and the SEKU Kumite Coach and Chief Instructor to Saltash Karate Club Steve Hollister, was voted ‘Sports Personality of the Year’ for the Plymouth Herald Newspaper witnessed by over 500 members of the public.  A big shout also goes out to Eden Burrell (formally Trick) for her performances as one of the members of the ‘Military Wives Choir’ – we are all hoping they will become the Christmas No1 hit with their heart rendering song ‘Where Ever You Are’ Eden is a member of Paul Uren’s club Plymouth Karate-Do.

Such is the excellent reputation SEKU has, in the past we have been, and are continually being invited to many International events including Tournaments in Holland, Belgium, Slovakia, Italy, Sicily, France and Germany.  Last month we were invited to the Army Open Championships in Aldershot and as a result we have been invited back, there is also talk of us competing in the Combined Armed Forces Championships sometime next year.  I thank the SEKU Team Leaders and Coaches Terry Oliver, Steve Hollister and Stacey Crowe for taking our association to such heights.  Sadly though, Stacey is retiring from his position of Kata Coach for personal reasons and I take this opportunity of thanking him sincerely for giving over his time and expertise to the SEKU cause.

Next year we have cause for celebration – SEKU will be 30 years of age!  As yet there are no plans for any wild parties but we are planning to stage a home International (a match between England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales) at the Mountbatten Centre Portsmouth later in the year.  There will be other opportunities for members to get together throughout the year.

The 2012 dates for Black and Brown Belt Courses and Instructor Classes have now been confirmed and Matt Powell has now completed the Year Planner.  Ken Lyons is busy getting them printed and as soon as they are ready you shall have them and you will be able to organise your 2012 SEKU year.  Talking of which I have contacted all club secretaries for their 2012 Club Kyu Grading Dates, so far confirmation has come from Chichester, Crofton, Uxbridge, Locksheath, Portsmouth and Paulsgrove. As soon as you have confirmed your Club grading dates with me I can go ahead and plan the Senior Instructors and my year – please do this as soon as possible.

As well as the planned Home International mentioned above the regular Black and Brown Belt Courses and Instructor Classes, other dates to look forward to in 2012 are:

• 10^th March – The Legend Annual Championships – Bracknell Spts Centre, Bracknell 

An Annual Shobu Ippon Event staged by Gerry Breeze and Colin Putt.

• 31^st Mar/1^st Apr - The Bridport Gasshuku - Bridport Spts. Centre, Bridport, Dorset

Weekend Training Course of Traditional Shotokan Karate, good fun and a meeting of friends old and new – Booking form attached. Caravans can be hired from Caravan Park in nearby West Bay.  Proceeds from this event go toward the ‘Damons Health Angel Fund’

• 13^th April - The SEKU Annual Championships, Mountbatten Centre, Portsmouth

This is our Annual Championships where each SEKU Affiliated Club gets the chance to pit their skills by competing against each other.  Another chance to meet friends old and new.

• 22^nd September - Home International, Mountbatten Centre, Portsmouth

This is an event that will match teams from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales scheduled to celebrate SEKU’s 30^th anniversary and promises to be a good day.

• 17^th November – The Portsmouth Open Championships, Mountbatten Centre

This year the Championship had a truly International feel about it with teams from Holland, Belgium and Wales competing, they have all pledged to return in 2012.

• 8^th December – The Paulsgrove Children’s Championships, Grove Club, Paulsgrove.

This Championship is now in its thirteenth year and has become very popular with SEKU’s junior members and their Mums and Dads and is a good introduction for the competitors to Individual Three-Step Sparring and Kata. Keith Williams who stages this event covers the entire cost from his own pocket and it is great that his friends from surrounding clubs support him in his endeavour.

 To conclude I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in 2012 and I hope to see you all at some of the scheduled events listed above.

Regards – Mick Dewey Sensei

 

Held on Sunday 30^th October 2011 at Bridport Leisure Centre, roughly half way between Plymouth and Portsmouth, this course proved to be very popular and attracted 40 SEKU members.

The course was led by Sensei Dewey 8^th Dan and was planned such that  the range of Karate Ka from those new to Refereeing and Judging to those very experienced, would all benefit and gain useful knowledge for their individual improvement.

The venue and times were also designated for squad training, but the Squad Manager Terry Oliver 5^th Dan and Coaches Stacy Crowe 5^th Dan and Steve Hollister 5^th Dan, decided that it was in the best of interests for the squad members to also complete the course. As Terry said

“With a better understanding of the rules and how the Referees and Judges looked at the match performance. They competitors would in turn be better able to understand “good score-able techniques” and those which although feeling good to the competitor were most unlikely to ever score”.

In the past  training for Time keeping and Scoring has been provided separately. However on this occasion it had been decided to run the course on a combined basis. This way both sides of the control table would gain an appreciation of what the other side was doing and their difficulties. At the same time everyone helping to build a full team feeling.

Having highlighted the various hand signals and gestures for the commencement of a match, awarding of points etc. to the conclusion of a match. The course members split into three groups and proceeded to put into practice the points covered.

With each group been led by a very experienced Referee and including other qualified Referees and Judges those starting off on the path were quickly drawn into the group sense of comradie and encouraged to develop a confident manner in their presentation and hand signals etc.

At the same time those experienced in Referees and Judging had the opportunity to polish their skills and presentation in readiness for the forthcoming Portsmouth Open Karate Tournament to be held on Saturday 19^th November at the Mountbatten Centre in Portsmouth.

So that the course members were able to understand the overall Competion process, Sensei O'Donnell 7^th Dan, summarised the key features in running a competition and highlighted the typical “administrative problems” that a Referee or Judge could meet that had to be resolved in particular ways. He emphasised that the whole competition was based on a team approach.

Sensei Dewey concluded the days course by giving particular thanks to the SEKU Technical Panel members, the Squad Management and the other qualified Referees and Judges, but in particular to all those SEKU members who had come along to the course in order to take the first step  towards becoming a competition official.

Merv

This award was made at the SEKU Instructor Class on Sunday 11th September 2011.

The class itself is the premier level of instruction within SEKU and its Instructors gather three or four times a year to be led through the higher aspects of Shotokan Karate by Sensei Dewey.

As the premier training event in the SEKU calendar and coinciding with the AGM this date was chosen for the special award to be made.

On completion of a very technical lesson on the standardisation of Jion and as Sensei Dewey was calling for the line up to be made, Sensei O’Donnell interrupted the formalities by stepping forward with the SEKU Technical panel to make a speech concerning Sensei Dewey, the highlight of which was the announcement that the  Technical panel had awarded Sensei Dewey Hachi Dan. 

Not surprisingly this announcement was received with great applause by the very high turn out of instructors attending the class. Sensei Dewey in replying said that he was humbled by the award and took great pride in the way SEKU has developed over the years and its continual endevour to improve.  

Black and Brown Belt Course Sunday 2nd October 2011

Coming at the end of an untypically very hot week for this time of the year, the Dojo at Portchester Community School was full of  students as Yoi! was called for the start of the course.

At the recent SEKU Instructors Class, Sensei Dewey had been awarded “Hachi Dan”. It was clear that the full class wanted to show their respect and high regard for Sensei Dewey and when their applause was finally calmed down Sensei Dewey made the point that there is nothing magical about any of the grades. They simply represent the stages in development gained by persistent hard work and very importantly keeping an open mind to all facets of Karate.

Sensei Dewey told the packed class that he felt very humbled with the response to his award and encouraged eveyone to just keep working and not to be down hearted when their Karate practice suffered problems. 

The SEKU Technical panel are currently going through the process of “Standardising the way in which SEKU performs the various Kata and the theme for the class was “Jion Kata”.

Sensei Dewey led the class through the kata, empassising key points and repetitive practice of those combinations so that they were “burnt” into the muscle memory.

To ensure that all the points were being thoroughly understood and performed correctly those instructors who were at the recent Instructors class took smaller groups and were able to check that the course members were putting into practice the new information.

To round the first session off Sensei Dewey asked the following to demonstrate the “standardised” Jion Kata.

Sensei Steve Hollister 5th Dan of the Saltash Karate club and current WJKA Men’s veteran Kata Champion.

Sensei Julie Brightman 3rd Dan from Crofton Karate Club and current WJKA Ladies veteran Kata and Kumite Champion

Elliott Smith 1st Dan from the Lovedean Karate club         

Whilst Sensei’s Dewey and O’Donnell conducted the Dan grading, Sensei Smith took the class through the Bunkai of Jion.

Quote from Glen Frame –Chief Instructor of the Bognor Regis Karate Club

”Both myself and Marcela attend a lot of courses around the country over the course of the year and experience different outlooks on both the physical and technical aspects of karate,
Since the Bognor Club affiliated to SEKU at the begining of the year we have enjoyed the BB courses, Bridport and of course the Instructors' courses. The sessions have structure and always give us plenty to take away to improve ourselves and filter into our own club; the recent course at Portchester was a great follow on from the Instructors' class . The way the course allowed us to implement  and share what we took away from the Instructors' class helps us as instructors; as well as moving the karate of SEKU  forward to club level reaching all members.
It was good to see the Jion kata practiced and demonstrated with such enthusiasm and the unceasing work rate was plainly evident. Great course. Look forward to the next”.
 
Dan Grade Results.

Ken Lyons                  2nd Dan          Uxbridge Karate Club

Roy Standen               2nd Dan          Portchester Karate Club

Deborah Lucas            2nd Dan          Fort Purbrook

David Lloyd                2nd Dan          Uxbridge Karate Club

Michael Lynton          1st Dan           Newport Fitness Factory

Scott Waugh                1st Dan           Portchester Karate Club

Michael Smallpage      1st Dan           Peterdfield

'Another very good effort from the traveling SEKU Team, well done to all those involved particularly Team Manager Terry Oliver and Team Coach Steve Hollister who was behind each and every competitor. Also well done International Referees Alan Lewis and Chris Carr as well as Terry in doing a Stirling job in helping to run the fighting areas. Having had the worry of managing these trips myself over many years I know what a headache it can be.

Being able to trust the Manager and Coaches as well as competitors Its great to simply to be able to sit back and enjoy the successes during these trips without worry. You all make me feel very proud indeed.' - Mick Dewey - Chief Instructor of SEKU

On Thursday 11^th August an England team made up from SEKU and Seishinkai squads left Dover to compete in the WJKA world championships in Belgium.

There always seem to be some kind of drama when we travel and this occasion proved to be no different.  It appears that the group had failed to be informed of a major cycle race taking place in the same location as the team hotel.  This delayed our arrival somewhat although some amongst the group thought it may be a beer festival and things didn’t seem so bad after all!

12^th August: The group visited the WW1 memorial of the Menin gate in Ypres.  This was a moving experience for all and put our own problems into perspective.  It also served to alleviate any pre tournament nerves.  In the afternoon we returned to our hotel via the arena.  The squad were checked in and the usual coaches and referees briefing were carried out in the early evening.

13^th August: The arena for the event was very well organised by the WJKA officials led by Serge and Jethro Trappeniers.  This made the tournament a great spectacle for competitors and supporters alike.  Today was set aside for all kata eliminations and finals.  In fact the day did end up bang on time.  The general standard was very good and it was to prove that all the hard training session would pay dividends.

In her first international event Julie Brightman excelled and took first place and the world title in the veteran females individual kata.  This was repeated when coach Steve Hollister gave a demonstration of how Unsu should be preformed and England had their 2^nd world champion of the day.

Michaela Lamport is quickly becoming a seasoned competitor picking up another world title in the 16-18 females kata.  Adam Cockfield took 1^st place in the men’s senior kata while Jason Hollister took 3^rd.

Young Brook Walkin not to outdone by her clubmates took 2^nd place in the 12-13 kata and Rebecca Nutbean 3^rd in the 15-16 age group.  George Oliver reached the final 8 in the senior mens event.

The first day over and a sizable haul in the bag.  The success of the day buoyed the spirit of the squad which was to prevail for the kumite on the following day.  The grins of satisfaction from Sensei Dewey, Terry Oliver and Steve Hollister was indication that things were going well.

14^th August:  Unfortunately this day was to be marred by the sad passing of one of the veteran kumite competitors.  The organisers took the decision to curtail the event thus team matches did not take place. 

The individual bouts were however hotly contested.  Matt Powell did very well eventually reaching the final eight before loosing to a very sharp South African opponent.  The remaining men got through one or two rounds before joining the sidelines.   The ladies in the squad faired better with Julie Brightman picking up another 1^st place trophy, Brook Walkin and silver and Michaela Lamport a bronze.

Overall, the trip was a success with many of the youngsters gaining valuable international experience and reward as well as first outings for some of the vets.

Sunday evening, Sensei Dewey, Terry Oliver and Steve Hollister still had that grin of satisfaction on their faces.  This time there was a celebratory glass of the good stuff at hand!

As usual the day started with junior events and team kata. Crofton stole the title for the junior team kata and Portsmouth took the gold for the Adult team kata with Rob Maynard, Joe Crowe and Rachael Jackson performing Jitte, these three karateka started the day well and each made it to the finals in individual kata and kumite later that day.

In the pee-wee individual kata Cory Swinfield of Fitness Factory IOW displayed great zanchin throughout his final kata to edge him ahead to take gold.  However it is import to mention that  Keetan Daish from Newport IOW club gave Cory a good run for his money and although Keetan has only been training for  6 months he achieved great results with a silver in kata and and a gold in the Pee-Wee Sanbon kumite.  It was a gold and silver respectively for Ayuna Maunder and Ludovic Harrison of Portsmouth both of whom went on to win bronze in the junior San bon kumite.

Elliott Smith of Lovedean karate club performed a dynamic a well-timed Kanku-sho to achieve gold in the junior 3^rd kyu & above individual kata. Smith added to his successful morning with a second gold, this time for junior under 5ft sanbon kumite.  With these two fantastic results it was no wonder that the Biff Thompson Memorial Trophy was also awarded to Elliott.

This year appeared to be the year of club rivalry and there were Gold and Silvers in the kata finals for Andrew Wenham and David Hollister representing Uxbridge in the men's & women's 10^th – 4^th kyu individual kata. Equally so for John Watson and Michael Smallpage of Petersfield dojo who even drew on points on count back before taking Gold and Silver.  It should at this point be noted that both Uxbridge and Petersfield Club are fairly newly established clubs, Uxbridge under the guidance of Ken Lyons and Petersfield led by Sensei and SEKU Squad Captain Mathew Powell.

With the women's individual black belt kata category and after yet another set of tied results, it was Julie Brightman of Crofton that came through triumphant with her tokoi kata Nijushiho.  Sound performances by Danny Walton with Sochin, Rob Maynard with Gojushiho-sho and Mike Grimwood with Gankaku still just didn't catch the fantastic performance of Shaun Egglington’s Unsu, Shaun of Plymouth dojo, retained the Men's black belt Kata trophy for yet another year.

In the junior 5ft and above category, Brooke Walkin of Saltash gave her senior Harry Millar a run for his money but Harry who seemed more focused than ever on the mats managed to take gold in this final.

Following on from his fantastic performances at the Paulsgrove Junior Christmas Competition run by Sensei Williams, Albert Hart of the fitness factory IOW beat Brian Garcia of Portsmouth to claim gold in the boys under 5ft individual kumite. In the over 5ft category there seemed to be a severe case of déjà vu as the final was announced between Ben Hobbs of Saltash and Joe Crowe of Portsmouth. Throughout the shobu ippon competition circuit both of these two highly competitive squad members have met on several occasions.  The tension for this final was as always going to be high and with a sharp Gyaku-zuki it was Joe Crowe that was victorious.

Club rivalry once was again shown through in the men's 7th to 1st kyu individual kumite but in the fight with Patrick Masters of Portsmouth and the man mountain of John Watson of Petersfield it was spirit that seemed to be the key word for the semi final.  John Watson ultimately won the final but not before club mate Michael Smallpage made him really work for it.  Both men showing that they have real potential to make an impact when they move into the Dan grade category in the near future.

It was a 1, 2, 3 for Saltash karate club in the young women's kumite which saw Rebecca Nutbean take gold, Michaela Lamport silver and Emily Nutbean bronze, these Saltash young women showing that there is certainly some benefits to having the SEKU kumite squad coach as your Sensei.

Money may not grow on tress but I'm not so sure about 'Weavers' as now Tom Weaver has burst onto the competition scene.  Not only did the 3 Weaver brothers, of Lovedean karate club, compete in the team kata together but Tom also picked up a gold in the youths individual kumite, this is clearly yet another family of karateka to keep an eye one in the future.

For the last two consecutive years the women's individual black belt kumite category has been dominated by Portsmouth karate club thanks to Karyn Powell and Emma Williams, so before the competition Rachael Jackson as the only adult female member of Portsmouth karate club was certainly feeling the pressure to continue this winning trend and to her credit that is exactly what she did beating Julie Brightman of Crofton in the final.

The men's individual black belt kumite category is always a highly difficult event especially with so many squad members competing and this year Andrew Shorkey of Fitness Factory showed his persistent drive to achieve and joined three squad members in the semi's.  The two individuals that made it through to the final were George Oliver now of Petersfield and Matt Smith of Lovedean.  Both fighters were on top form all day displaying their range and depth of techniques and it is fair to say that they are also very instinctive and reactive fighters, dealing with each clash in techniques with impulse rather then prescribed and premeditated encounters and this always makes for an impressive final.  After the first 2 minutes the scores stood at 1-1 and it was in the extension time that Matt Smith took the advantage and secured the title of SEKU men’s individual black belt champion.

The final event of the day was the men's 3 man team kumite and the two teams that had made it through to the final were Saltash and Portsmouth Karate Club.  The line up saw Rob Maynard of Portsmouth beat Mike Grimwood of Saltash in a tight 2-1 fight.  Then second up was Graham Rowley (Portsmouth) and Daniel Walton (Saltash) and this ended in a draw 0-0.  So it was down to Mohammed to take the offensive and victory from Keith Williams of Portsmouth, however Keith showed once again that his timing and dominance were not going to let that happen and Keith was able to win the fight 2-0.  This meant that Portsmouth retained the team kumite trophy for another year.

In addition to the fantastic work by all that entered the competition (please see full results below) Thanks to all the time keepers, scorers and referees for their role in ensuring the success of the SEKU Championships.

KUMITE MEN’S TEAM KUMITE                                       

1^st Portsmouth

2^nd Saltash

Jnt 3^rd Petersfield

Lovedean

MEN’S INDIVIDUAL BLACK BELT KUMITE                        

1^st Matt Smith – Lovedean                                                                       

2^nd George Oliver – Petersfield                                                           

Jnt 3^rd Andrew Shorkey – Fitness Factory                                   

            Rob Maynard – Portsmouth

WOMEN’S INDIVIDUAL BLACK BELT KUMITE –

1^st Rachel Jackson – Portsmouth

2^nd Julie Brightman – Crofton

Jnt 3^rd Zerina Shafi

            Becca Cox – Plymouth

YOUTH’S INDIVIDUAL KUMITE

1^st Tom Weaver – Lovedean

2^nd Andrew Wentham – Uxbridge

YOUNG WOMEN’S INDIVIDUAL KUMITE

1^st Rebecca Nutbean – Saltash

2^nd Michaela Lamport – Saltash

3^rd Emily Nutbean – Saltash

MEN’S 7^th – 1^ST KYU INDIVIDUAL KUMITE

1^st John Watson – Petersfield

2^nd Michael Smallpage – Petersfield

Jnt 3^rd Patrick Masters - Portsmouth

            Laurence David – Fort Purbrook

BOY’S 5ft & ABOVE INDIVIDUAL KUMITE

1^st Joe Crowe – Portsmouth

2^nd Ben Hobbs – Saltash

Jnt 3^rd Jordan Austin – Newport IOW

            Casey Austin  – Newport IOW

BOY’S 5ft & UNDER INDIVIDUAL KUMITE

1^st Albert Hart – Fitness Factory

2^nd Brian Garcia – Portsmouth

Jnt 3^rd Oliver Austin – Newport IOW

            Daniel Pegg  – Newport IOW

TALLER GIRLS INDIVIDUAL KUMITE

1^st Brooke Walkin – Saltash

JUNIOR 5ft & ABOVE SANBON KUMITE

1^st Harry Millar – Saltash

2^nd Brooke Walkin – Saltash

Jnt 3^rd Denzel Pena – Portchester

            Ludovic Harrison – Portsmouth

JUNIOR UNDER 5ft SANBON KUMITE

1^st Elliott Smith – Lovedean

2^nd Angella Ferriby – Crofton

Jnt 3^rd Aine Maunder – Portsmouth

            Albert Hart – Fitness Factory

PEE-WEE SANBON KUMITE

1^st Keetan Daish – Newport IOW

2^nd Hameen Khan - Crofton

Jnt 3^rd Cameron Smith – Lovedean

            Shahyo Khan – Crofton

KATA

MEN’S INDIVIDUAL BLACK BELT KATA

1^st Shaun Egglinton – Plymouth

2^nd Mike Grimwood – Saltash

3^rd Rob Maynard – Portsmouth

4^th Danny Walton – Saltash

WOMEN’S INDIVIDUAL BLACK BELT KATA

1^st Julie Brightman – Crofton

2^nd Rachel Jackson – Portsmouth

3^rd Joanne Boyd – Uxbridge

4^th Zerina Shafi – Crofton

MEN’S INDIVIDUAL BROWN BELT KATA

1^st John Watson – Petersfield

2^nd Michael Smallpage – Petersfield

3^rd Paul Wilsn – Portsmouth

MEN’S & WOMEN’S 10^th – 4^th KYU INDIVIDUAL KATA

1^st Andrew Wenham – Uxbridge

2^nd David Hollis – Uxbridge

3^rd Claire Lacey – Lovedean

4^th Ken Sayer – Petersfield

ADULT TEAM KATA

1^st Portsmouth -

2^nd Uxbridge

3^rd Lovedean

4^th Portchester

JUNIOR TEAM KATA

1^st Crofton

2^nd Portchester –Denzel

3^rd Portchester – Owen

JUNIOR 3^rd KYU & ABOVE INDIVIDUAL KATA

1^st Elliott Smith – Lovedean

2^nd Joe Crowe – Portsmouth

3^rd Ben Hobbs – Saltash

4^th Brian Garcia – Portsmouth

JUNIOR 10^th – 4^th KYU INDIVIDUAL KATA

1^st Aine Maunder – Portsmouth

2^nd Ludovic Harrison – Portsmouth

3^rd Amy Jagger – Crofton

4^th Nasim el Mahadi – Lipson

PEE-WEE INDIVIDUAL KATA

1^st Cory Swinfield – Fitness Factory

2^nd Keaton Daish – Newport IOW

3^rd Amy Davis – Crofton

4^th Oliver Gwilliam – Portchester

WINNERS OF PERPETUAL TROPHY’S (TO BE RETURNED)

Team Kumite:                                      Portsmouth

Men’s Individual Kumite:                          Matt Smith – Lovedean

Men’s Individual Kata:                          Shaun Egglinton - Plymouth

Women’s Individual Kumite:              Rachel Jackson – Portsmouth

Women’s Individual Kata:                           Julie Brightman – Crofton

Biff Thompson Memorial Trophy:   Elliott Smith - Lovedean     

On Saturday 12th March 2011 the SEKU Squad, led by Team manager Sensei Terry Oliver, Kata Coach Sensei Stacey Crowe and Kumite Coach Sensei Steve Hollister, attended the Legends Competition in Bracknell.  From the impressive results it is clear to see the strength and depth of the SEKU squad this year, with medal placings in 8 different categories.  Congratulations to all those involved.

• Association team kumite 1st.  Matt Smith, Lee Wilkinson, George Oliver, Mike Grimwood, Sam Weaver, Danny Walton
  
• 3 man team 3rd - Danny Walton, Sam Weaver, Mike Grimwood.
• Ladies team 3rd - Julies Brightman, Rachael Jackson, Zarina Shaffri
• Mixed team 3rd - Lee WIlkinson, Rachael Jackson, Matt Smith.
• Mens Ind. Kata 2nd - Jason Hollister
• Cadets 16-20 Kumite - Rob Maynard 2nd, Elliot Carrington jnt 3rd.
• Cadets 16-20 Kata -1st Mike Grimwood., Jnt 3rd George Oliver, Sam weaver.
• Junior ind. kata - 3rd Elliot Smith
  
• Under 16years Male Kumite - 1st Ben Hobbs, 2nd Joe Crowe.

The first official training course of the year held at our usual venue of Dorchester Judo club was well attended with quite a few new faces.  It was announced at the end of 2010 that the kumite element  (12.30-14.30) of future training sessions be open for all SEKU members.  This will hopefully encourage more students to take the opportunity to train with the squad or ultimately be included when selections for regional and major events take place.

Training days are usually divided with kata training conducted by Sensei Crowe from 10.00-12.20 and Kumite with Sensei Hollister from 12.30-14.30.

As it was the first event of the year Sensei Crowe concentrated largely on basic transitional movements and the components of the ‘in between’ bits of kata.  It is felt that focus on such elements will improve the performance of the student’s kata performance as a whole. 

Selection for the kata section of the class was held to ensure that those individuals serious about their kata training receive special attention.  This will focus in the future on elimination kata in part and members own tokui kata.

Kumite training also only focuses on small elements of movement and strategy  with only a few actual techniques used.  Some might find this kind of attention to detail restrictive but squad members are expected to take these specific ideas and take them away and work on them.  This formula has proved successful for the time that the current management structure has been in place with no plans to alter this in the near future.

In general the class has a ‘buzz’ or a tangible spirit about it and this was no different.  This is a great forum to progress everyone’s ability and an opportunity for them to achieve personal aspirations.  We hope that more SEKU members avail themselves of these classes provided by the squad manager and coaches.

Terry Oliver

Click  here to see images for this competition taken by Snowden Photography

THE 40^TH PORTSMOUTH OPEN KARATE TOURNAMENT – RESULTS  20^TH NOVEMBER 2010

It was an impressive turn out of competitors from clubs around the country for the 40th anniversary of the Portsmouth Open Karate Tournament which was held at the Mountbatten Centre.  As always there was an excellent standard and attitude among all competitors.  Thanks to all who took part and the volunteer efforts of those that helped to run things behind the scenes.

ADULT KUMITE

Inter Association Team Kumite

1^st – SEKU

2^nd – TKW

3^rd – SKC England

Men’s Team Kumite

1^st – Portsmouth (SEKU)

2^nd – Tokon KA

Jnt 3^rd  - SKC – TKWA

Women’s Team Kumite

1^st – SKC

2^nd – Coulbridge

3^rd – Portsmouth (SEKU)

Men’s Individual Black Belt Kumite

1^st Dave Galloway (Portsmouth SEKU)

2^nd – Francis Barnham (EWSKA)

Jnt 3^rd – Salih Soran (Michael Sobell) – Matt Broadhead (EWSKA)

Women’s Individual Black Belt Kumite

1^st - L Holden (SKC)

2^nd – A Subbarat (SKC)

Jnt 3^rd – J Gee (Tokon)  - R Young (SKC)

Youth’s Kumite

1^st - Warren Tetsola (SKCW)

2^nd – Ercument Ibrahim (Michael Sobell)

Jnt 3^rd – Mounder Sotehi (Michael Sobell) – Masoub Sedigi (SKC)

Young Ladies Kumite

1^st - Aucie Andrews (Zanshin)

2^nd – M Lamport

3^rd – A Niranian

Men’s Kumite 6^th to 1^st Kyu

1^st – Matthew Freemantle

2^nd – Danny Riddick (Usher)

Jnt 3^rd – Billy Smith (HKK) – Adam Smith (TKW)

Women’s Kumite 6^th to 1^st Kyu

1^st - R Houlton (SSKI)

2^nd – C Roquain (SKC)

Jnt 3^rd – L Newman (Kihaku Dojo) – M Wood (Portchester SEKU)

ADULT KATA

Adult Team Kata

1^st Kilburn ‘A

2^nd Kilburn ‘B’

Jnt 3^rd – Zanshin – Kilburn ‘C’

Men’s Individual Black Belt Kata

1^st – Duy Nguyen (SKC)

2^nd – Mike Grimwood (Saltash SEKU)

3^rd – Jason Hollister (Saltash SEKU)

4^th – J Hasnip

Women’s Individual Brown Belt & Above Kata

1^st – I Redai – (SKI Holland)

2^nd - Faye Cappleman (Portchester SEKU)

3^rd – Emma Robbins (Cowbridge ASK)

4^th – Stacey Barton (Seishinkia)

Men’s Brown Belt Kata

1^st - P Galosins (Kanku)

2^nd – Scott Waugh (Portchester SEKU)

3^rd – David Owen (Woodview SEKU)

4^th – Louis Nelson (Lovedean SEKU)

Men & Women 10^th to 4^th Kyu Kata

1^st – Gary Wenham (Uxbridge SEKU)

2^nd – Jamie Stone (Saltash SEKU)

3^rd – Michael Hackman (SKC)

4^th – Clare Chapman (Saltash SEKU)

JUNIOR KUMITE

Boy’s Kumite 5ft & Above

1^st – Joe Crowe (Portsmouth SEKU)

2^nd - Ben Hobbs (Saltash SEKU)

Jnt 3^rd – Liam Hooper (ESK) – Matthew Randall (SKC)

Boy’s Kumite Under 5ft

1^st – T Carson (SSKI)

2^nd - A Hart – (Fitness Factory SEKU)

Jnt 3^rd – S Asiram (SKC) – T Ramsey

Petite Girls Kumite

1^st – Salem Kousa (SKC)

2^nd – Yasmin Tetsola (SKC)

Jnt 3^rd – N Higgins (SEKU) – Arisa Bunsan (SKC)

Taller Girls Kumite

1^st - Leah Groom (SSKI)

2^nd – Emily Nutbean (Saltash SEKU)

Jnt 3^rd – Rebeccah Nutbean (Saltash SEKU) – Lauren Brooks (SSKI)

Jnr Sanbon Kumite 5ft & Above

1^st – Luke  Bradish (SKC)

2^nd – Alex Ingham (Bedford)

Jnt 3^rd – Ollie Fox (Black Belt Academy) – Rebecca Nutbean (Saltash SEKU)

Jnr Sanbon Kumite Under 5ft 

1^st – S Koussa (SKC)

2^nd – A Koussa (SKC)

Jnt 3^rd – B Walkin (Saltash SEKU) – C Jones (Kiryoku)

Pee Wee Sanbon Kumite

1^st – Olivia Christodouly (Seishinkia)

2^nd – Jody Evangelish (SKC)

Jnt 3^rd – Thomas Rumsey (SKU) – Robbie Sneddon (Zanshin)

JUNIOR KATA

Junior Team Kata

1^{st -} SeishinKia

2^{nd -} Saltash ‘A’ (SEKU)

3^rd - Saltash ‘B’ (SEKU)

4^{th -}  Kiryoku

Junior 3^rd Kyu & Above Kata

1^st – A Koussa (SKC)

2^nd – T Carson

3^rd – Salem Koussa (SKC)

4^th - Joe Crowe (Portsmouth SEKU)

Junior 10^th to 4^th Kyu Kata

1^st – Gwilliam Connor (Portchester SEKU)

2^nd – Lauren Sheppard (Crofton SEKU)

3^rd – Sohpie Shearer (Crofton SEKU)

4^th Amy Jagger (Crofton SEKU)

Pee Wee Kata

1^st – Olivia Christodolou (Seishinkia)

2^nd – Jody Evangelista (SKC)

3^rd – Tasia Akiyama (WSKF)

Dylan Owen (Portchester SEKU)

After his recent success at the SKDUN World Championships in Lons le Saunier, France 8/9^th October, Dave Galloway for the second year won the Men’s Individual Black Belt Kumite and led the Portsmouth club to the team title, but also Captained SEKU to win the Inter Association Event.  Dave is a truly competitive contestant and is certainly a marvelous ‘Role Model’ for any Karate-Ka wishing to make his or her mark in SEKU.

The SEKU and SEISHINKAI squads joined forces to present a strong England contingent for this event and have been training together following our last foray into Europe at the WJKA European championships earlier in the year.

And so, lead by Sensei Mick Dewey and Sensei Malcolm Phipps, Terry Oliver, Steve Hollister, Adam Cockfield and Stacey Crowe, the group set out for France at stupid o’clock early Friday 8^th October to Lons Le Sauniers, a small town close to the French Swiss border for this prestigious event.

We did encounter some logistics hiccups not more so than the accommodation arrangements for the 45 people who travelled.  Our residence for the 3 days was the beautiful setting of a campsite next to a lake.  Unfortunately, no one had informed the proprietor who has closed the camp in mid-September.  And, oh yes, it was 30km away from the venue!  This is the only negative point I shall note in this article…I promise!

Day one of this event is always very busy with Kohai events in which Sensei Malcolm Phipps and Terry Oliver officiated.  And, the individuals events of all Kata and Kumite.  Individual men and women’s open weight finals would conclude on Sunday with the team kumite events.  Sensei Mick Dewey acted as ‘Tatami Chief' on one of the busiest areas and Alan Lewis and Chris Carr also worked tirelessly on both days throughout the event.

This England squad had many younger competitors and this was to prove a new experience for many of them.  I think it was generally positive experience and one that will motivate many to train harder for this event next year.

As day one drew to a conclusion the only event which was still to be decided was the men’s open weight individual kumite.  The focus for the remaining spectators and officials was on this area and the atmosphere was becoming increasingly tense.

Those who attended the SKDUN world championships before will know that this event is extremely hotly contested and this year was to be no different.  The usual suspects are competitors from Romania and Congo who were joined by England and Belarus.

On this occasion England’s Dave Galloway had reached the final stages of the event and was facing the Romanian captain in a bout to progress further.  In terms of stature, Galloway was giving away greater reach and size to his opponent and appeared to have an uphill battle on his hands.  The Romanian had generally dominated his previous opponents but had difficulty coping with Dave’s mobility.  A bit of a cat and mouse game ensued between the two contrasting styles with the English captain eventually the victor.

The semi final was between a member of the Congo squad who again eclipsed Monsieur Galloway in stature however he was also very mobile and matched Dave in all departments, speed agility, evasiveness, craft etc.  The match was very even and extended into encho-sen.  Following several clashes, one of which opened up Dave’s chin quite nicely, the Englishman won the day.

Day two.  Final of the Open weight kumite. The whole event eventually was coming to its natural conclusion.  The official ceremony had been carried out with the Scottish team marching into the arena being extremely cruel to a domestic pet…no seriously, playing the pipes and presentation of the officials.

And so everyone settled down for the final match.  Dave Galloway-England v. Belarus fighter Alexandre Clementis.

Hajime…Galloway, as is usual uses all of the fighting area whereas his opponent follows him around.  It appears both men are tense, as is natural, and early exchanges are short of target. 

Galloway scores the first point with a sharp chudan tsuki, which is equalised shortly after.  Half the crowd are chanting “ Belarus, Belarus”.  This is answered by a vehement “ England, England”.  The arena is electric…

Galloway then scores a second then a third wazari.  The crowd are going mad, they think it’s all over.  Galloway scores a forth wazari. (The whistle blows for time).  It is now!

Dave Galloway, World Champion!!!! 

At that point, there are a few senior people whose vision becomes a bit bleary but the whole thing, the squad, Dave, supporters who are enveloped in a tangible bubble of excited celebration.

Needles to say the whole weekend was capped off professionally by the usual debrief by the manager and coaches...  That is what we call it anyway.  England, SEKU, have a worthy champion.

OSS

Additional awards:

Dave Galloway 3^rd Mens Individual kumite -75kgs

Brooke Walkin 3^rd Childrens girls individual kumite

Rebecca Nutbean, Emily Nutbean, Leah Groome 3^rd Girls team kumite

Rachael Houlton 3^rd Ladies individual kumite -55kgs

Teiki Benveniste, Becca Cox, Lee Wilkinson, Rachael Houlton, Matt Smith 3^rd Mixed team kumite. 

Congratulations to all.

Terry Oliver 5^th Dan SEKU

Deliriously happy Team squad manager.

A few lines from Sensei Mick Dewey

On arrival at our accommodation the French trip began with disappointment but such is the spirit and camaraderie of this group of young people the whole weekend turned into a truly wonderful experience.  Malcolm Phipps’s group Seishinkai fitted in well too and it was as if they had always been part of us. Such is the deep feeling that our dear friend and supporter Sarah Brown – now training with Seishinkai at Adam Cockfield’s club in Kings Cross, London arrived in support the following day having made her own way travelling by air and three train journeys.  There were also parents of the younger ones who had travelled with us in support

Over the weekend, the ‘spirited’ Dave Galloway had fought some of the most skilful and effective (and Big) opponents SEKU have met so far and came through victorious.  He didn’t come out completely unscathed however, and took a couple of hard knocks on the way.  Dave however, whose spirit and attitude is typical of other SEKU team members, remained unperturbed and stood bravely under serious onslaught to come out the overall winner. 

I have been taking SEKU representative teams to tournaments and events since the start of SEKU – We have been to many places over the years, all home countries – Scotland, Wales, Southern Ireland.  To Slovakia, Brazil and recently Hungary and France.  A couple of years back to alleviate the stress of the job that from time to time was shared with others and was somewhat hit and miss, a new practice was put into place and training Coaches were appointed.  Steve Hollister was given the job of Kumite Coach and Stacey Crowe as Kata Coach.  These two positions are compounded by Terry Oliver who oversees training, arranging venues and travel and accommodation when we are away.   These three members are great ambassadors and representatives to the SEKU cause when we travel away.  It’s not easy and these positions of responsibility are taken on as a labour of love as they are unpaid and I would like at this point offer my sincere thanks and appreciation to this marvellous Coaching Team whose endeavours are gradually falling into place.

Dave Galloway who hails from the Portsmouth Dojo – the Home of SEKU, is a product of this great group of people who have a common interest, he is an unassuming young man, Captain of the SEKU Team Squad who helps, inspires and encourages all around him – a truly fine example and role model to any motivated young person who would want to follow him into the SEKU Team Squad.

Mick Dewey

Sensei‘s Steve Hollister & Hannah Day came over to Newport club for a weekend course (Hannah was heavily pregnant so no teaching or training from her). This is the first time that Steve has instructed on the island, and also the first time most of the Newport students had met or trained with him.

The first session on the Saturday was for the lower kyu grades. Working on hip rotation and Kata’s Kihon & Heian-Shodan. When performing the Kata’s the emphasis was every time that you change direction and performing Gedan-Barai (downward block) you had to turn on the flat of you foot not the ball of the foot. Sensei explained that when you turn on the ball of your foot the heel rotates backwards. Meaning some of the energy from the stance is also going backwards.

Sensei said he was going to do something different in the Black/Brown session Kata ANAN. This is one of the most advanced Kata’s of the Ryuei-ryu style of Karate with flowing movements and no strong Kime (Focus) points. He was teaching the kata the way the Bunkai would be applied. So it was easier for us to learn the Kata through the Bunkai www.newportiowkarate.co.uk/video.htm   

Sunday morning again started with the lower Kyu grades, After the warm up the class went straight in to light Randori (Free Sparing), then a quick revision on Kata Heian-Shodan again turning on the flat of the foot. We then practiced basic Gohan-Kumite (5 step) again using the hips on the blocks. We moved onto Sanbon-Kumite (3 step) but with a difference, After the first attack Jodan/Chudan the defender would block then come straight back with another attack and then the first attacker would again block and attack straight away, This was performed three times.

The Black/Brown session was again Kata ANAN with more Bunkai.  Newport Karate would like to thank Sensei Steve for an excellent training weekend and look forward for another visit sometime next year.               

Travelling party: Sensei Mick Dewey/Terry Oliver/Alan Lewis/Chris Carr/Steve Hollister/Stacey Crowe/Matt Powell/Lee Wilkinson/Shaun Eglinton / Jason Hollister/George Oliver/Mike Grimwood/Sam Weaver/Rebecca Cox/Emily Nutbean/Rebecca Nutbean/Elliott Smith/Brian Smith/Andy & Julie Nutbean.

The Shotokan of England Karate Union squad, led by Sensei Mick Dewey and Terry Oliver, made an early start on the 1^st July to travel to Deventer, Netherlands via road and ferry to compete in the WJKA European championships.  (Much earlier for the south west contingent).

Arriving in Deventer, the group took a short walk into the beautiful town square for dinner and a general look around what will be our home for the next couple of days.

Day 2 - The weather generally throughout the trip was excellent with temperatures touching 38 degrees. Another reason to take on plenty of liquid refreshment. 

The party visited the historic town of Arnhem in the morning.  First the famous Pegasus bridge, and then the military cemetery at Oosterbeek.  This proved to be an emotional and moving part of the day and one few in the group not forget for a while.  The afternoon also turned out to a momentous occasion for another reason.  The squad became part of the orange hordes that took over the town square for the Holland v Brazil world cup match.  With Holland emerging as the winners, the celebrations were fantastic with the large fountain being the focal point.  Some could not resist the temptation.

Team registration, referees/coaches briefing at the Tournament venue at Eerbeek was attended in the evening as was acquaintances with Sensei Jan Knobel and his colleagues of the WJKA.

Day 3 - Sensei's Terry Oliver, Alan Lewis and Chris Carr officiated at the WJKA Kohai championship. The squad also attended the venue to familiarise themselves with the surroundings of what would be the location of many successes on the day to come.

In the afternoon the squad had a light training/stretching session in the local park.  The weather as previously mentioned was glorious and therefore 'outside' training was the ideal preparation.

Day 4 - (Sensei Merv O'Donnell and Sue O'Donnell visited from their home elsewhere in Holland to support the Squad).

The running order for the day was to be Juniors AM-seniors PM.  Elliott Smith (Lovedean) and Rebecca & Emily Nutbean (Saltash) representing SEKU in this section.

In the 14-15 female kata category Rebecca and Emily faired exceptionally well to come 2^nd and 3^rdrespectively.  Elliott Smith did well on this his first event at this level and I'm sure will feature and similar events in the future.

In the kumite event Emily reached the finals where she emerged victorious against her Dutch opponent. (SEKU 1^st European Champion)

In the veteran kata event Steve Hollister gave a demonstration of Unsu that his fellow competitors will have to work hard to aspire too.  Mr Hollister was in a class of his own to take 1^st place and SEKU's 2^ndEuropean Champion.

George Oliver (Porstmouth), Sam Weaver (Lovedean) and Mike Grimwood (Saltash) represented SEKU in the cadet kata event each excelling in the elimination rounds, which were judges initially on heian kata and then brown belt kata.  Sam was unlucky not to proceed through to the final with Mike and George.

In the final George performed Kanku-sho and Mike, a great Gankaku.  The result:-Mike 1^st (SEKU's 3^rdEuropean champion) and George 2^nd (European silver medallist).

Senior men's kata saw Captain Matt Powell take bronze in the final after being edged out by two good kata performances by Belgian and Dutch opponents.  Jason Hollister was unlucky not to make the finals with solid performances in the eliminations.

Rebecca Cox's first European event also proved fruitful with a 3^rd place bronze medal for 'empi' in the kata and a silver medal in the kumite.  This is a superb effort after a lay off from karate and only recently coming back to squad training.

The male cadet kumite event has become an event that identifies future senior champions and potentially SEKU has 3 stars of the future in Mike Grimwood, Sam Weaver and George Oliver. The elimination bouts were hotly contested and unfortunately Mike went out before the finals.  The notable technique in these stages was a lightning front foot mawashi geri from George for an Ippon.  Through to the finals were Sam, competing for 3^rd/4^th place and George, competing for 1^st/2^nd.  Sam's match was very close and while his opponent from Azerbaijan seemed to loose his concentration Sam secured the match with superb timing.

George faced a Belgian opponent in the final and another tight match with the decision given to the Belgian.  (George- European silver medallist/Sam- European bronze medallist).

Men's Senior Individual kumite event saw Saltash's Lee Wilkinson in the finals after a blistering display in the elimination rounds.  It would be fair to say that Lee was pretty much unstoppable on the day dispatching opponents with a comprehensive battery of techniques.  The lions share of ippon scores went to Lee and I am certain that the other competitors will not underestimate this man's ability in future events. It should be mentioned that the leg catch and gyaku tsuki combination in the team final was voted technique of the day by the squad.  Suffice to say, Lee defeated his Italian opponent in the final to become the senior European Kumite champion. (SEKU 4^th European title).

Team kumite event-This could potentially have been a real Italian job with Italy 1 & 2 in the finals with SEKU but it came down to SEKU (England) v. Italy 1.

First man out, Captain Matt Powell.  This bout was full of clashes with Matt securing the first point with a sharp kizami tsuki only to be equalled shortly after.  waza ari - waza ari

Second bout.  Lee Wilkinson.  I think the Italians had had enough of Lee by the end of this day as in total he had beaten 5 of them!  As previously mentioned, the technique of the day scored an ippon after already having scored a wazari. waza ari - waza ari & ippon.

The third man, Shaun Eglinton had the pressurised task of sealing the match.   Again, this was a match full of clashes but this time the decision went to Italy.  The match was effectively drawn but the ippon score meant that the title of Men's European team champions went the England/SEKU.  (SEKU 5^th European title).

To summarise:  This event, trip has had many facets and each person will take away their own memories- Arnhem, military cemetery, the welcoming and great Dutch people, great weather, football celebrations, training in the park, socialising (Al Lewis on the spoons), competition success.

To underline all of this: another great occasion for the Shotokan of England Karate Union.

Terry Oliver 5^th Dan

Shotokan of England Team squad Manager

Full List of Results 

Photography by John Snowden - all prints available at www.snowdenphotography.co.uk

The SEKU National Championships 2010 was, once again, a celebration of high standard Karate performed with the true spirit of Karate-Do.

There were many highlights during the day and the evening finals were of the highest order.  Like last year, the sponsorship has brought a professional feel to the day, with excellent trophies awarded to all finalists.  Thanks must go to this years sponsors: N.J.S Brickwork & Scaffolding and Viviers (UK) LTD, Fish and Shellfish Merchants.

Joe Crowe was the star of the juniors this year, winning the over 5 foot kumite and junior kata events.  Joe was also awarded the junior fighting spirit trophy.  Elliott Smith also took two titles winning the under 5 foot kumite and sanbon kumite.  There were many other juniors showing great promise as well, and it would be good to see them all at SEKU squad training soon.  Of great inspiration to some clubs not in attendance, there were noticeable performances from some of the less well known and newer SEKU dojo, Plymouth Woodview, Crookhorn and the newly invigorated Petersfield club's to name a few, showed their class winning numerous trophies.

Before the evening finals, Sensei Matt Powell (Petersfield) performed a spirited and real kumite demonstration with one of his students Michael Smallpage.  The idea of this dynamic performance was to show defensive and offensive kumite from a sitting position, which triggered memories of some of the great SEKU demo's by our senior Sensei.  Michael will certainly think twice about attacking Matt again after being comprehensively overwhelmed by numerous expansive and impressive techniques!

The senior female events were dominated by Emma Williams and Stephanie Cass from Portsmouth, winning Gold and Silver respectively in both kata and kumite.  Emma's experience shone through in both events and her performance of Chinte was a clear margin ahead of the other finalists.  The Men's Kata winner this year was Shaun Eglinton (Plymouth Karate-Do), regaining the kata title he'd won three times previously.  It was, as ever, a technical and spirited performance of Unsu that took the title, and with it the SEKU technical excellence trophy.  Dave Galloway, Mike Grimwood and Matt Powell were the other kata finalists, all of them showing a marked improvement.

The Men's team kumite was again dominated by the strong Portsmouth Team (Dave Galloway, Graham Rowley and Captain, Keith Williams), but they were pushed all the way by Plymouth Karate-Do winning on count back after the final match was drawn.

The last special mention must go to SEKU Squad captain Dave Galloway.  The 2010 championships saw Dave's fifth straight back-to-back individual black belt kumite title!  To gain this consistency at any time is impressive, but to win during a time when some of SEKU's finest ever kumite exponents have been at their peak accentuates the achievement.  In the final, Dave fought returning SEKU squad member Danny Walton, who fought superbly all day, but Dave was too sharp in an intriguing and close final fight.

After such a successful event, it seems right to remind everyone of the high standard SEKU Squad and the opportunities gained whilst training with the squad.  The squad has had success at national and world level tournaments recently, and you all have the chance to train with the squad.  The next open squad session is Saturday 12^th June.  For information about the squad, please contact SEKU Squad Team Manager Terry Oliver on 07855 245416 or email on terryoliver4@msn.com

Thanks to all organisers, referees, judges, timekeepers, helpers and spectators and well done to everyone who competed. 

Once again event, a multitude of very high level competitors attended the spectrum sports centre in Guildford to vie for honours. The event is always well supported by various traditional groups, not least being SEKU, and is generally a 'must do' event in most diaries. SEKU officials attending the event included Sensei's Brian Smith, Terry Oliver (Team Squad Manager), Alan Lewis, Paul Moreby, Craig Foley and Chris Carr. Steve Hollister (Kumite coach) and Stacey Crowe (Kata coach) ensured all squad members were prepared and focused on the job at hand. Chief instructor Sensei Mick Dewey was around all areas which always gives everyone a boost and encourages everyone to do their best.

 There were some superb performances on the day from many of the usual suspects as well some recent new squad members. Ben Mayer is maturing well into a consistent medallist in the senior events with a bronze in the individual men's kumite and gold & bronze in the 3 and 5 men teams respectively. Ben scored with a spectacular array of techniques not least a number cracking jodan mawashi geris producing ippon from the officials.

 Emily Nutbeam triumphed in the girls individual kumite against fairly partisan behaviour from her opponents supporters. The noise emanating from this area was indicative of the hotly contested bouts in this event which make this success for Emily one to relish.

 Shaun Eglinton demonstrated yet again his dedication and professionalism gaining a silver medal in the senior men's kata (Unsu) and defeating team mate Graham Rowley in the veteran's kumite final to take the gold medal. This was the second final of the day that involved 2 squad members. George Oliver and Mike Grimwood showed that they are undoubtedly stars of the future with a superb repertoire of techniques during the elimination bouts. Matches between team mates are usually cagey affairs but this was an exiting match in which George ultimately triumphed.

 As always, the team matches are the premier events of the day. One of the 5 man matches was decided by 5 ippons as a result of the skill and determination of the karateka involved. The SEKU teams (3 man-Dave Galloway, Matt Powell, Ben Mayher) and (5 man-DG,MP,BM, Matt Smith and Graham Rowley) achieved gold and bronze respectively.

 Many thanks to all involved to make this another good day for SEKU. Squad members, officials, coaches, parents, and club instructors all play a part of the success that the squad achieve at such events. The successes are a reflection on the hard work given freely by all and a benefit to SEKU as a whole. I continue to encourage all club instructors to become involved.

Well done to all.

Terry Oliver 5^th Dan

Shotokan of England Squad Team Manager

Honours:

Ben Mayher-3^rd Senior Men Kumite

Emily Nutbeam-1^st Girls individual kumite

George Oliver-1^stCadet Individual kumite

Mike Grimwood-2^nd Cadet Individual kumite

Shaun Eglinton-1^st Veteran individual kumite

                    -2^nd Senior Men Individual Kata

Graham Rowley-2^nd Veteran Individual kumite

Matt Powell-Senior Men kata finalist

3 men team-Gold (DG, MP, BM)

5 men team-Bronze (DG, MP, BM, MS, GR)

The 17^th & 18^th April 2010 saw Sensei Dewey's weekend Gasshuku in aid of the Damon Health Angel Fund and it was a resounding success.

Karateka from all over the south of England travelled to be part of this special training weekend, which brought back great memories of the old SEKU Gasshuku's.  In keeping with the Gasshuku theme, (Gasshuku meaning "Lodging Together") many of the Karateka stayed at Littlesea Caravan Park and made the short trip to the dojo each day at Budmouth Sports Centre.  The idea of Gasshuku is not only to lodge together, but to train through tough times and gather in mutual development of Karate-Do.  This was certainly achieved by all.

 

 

The last drill of the Sunday session was some fun reaction training led by Dave Galloway, before culminating in the whole dojo working together whilst back-to-back helping each other to their feet, a real team effort!

Everyone left tired and aching, but all unanimously agreed that they would very much like this to become a regular annual event.  The Karateka who completed this course felt lucky to have been part of it.  Great instruction, training, inspiration, camaraderie and spirit, all for an excellence cause.

Thanks must be given to Hannah Day for managing the course arrangements and to Matt Powell for finding the excellent training venue.

And thanks to Sensei Dewey for an outstanding training weekend, Osu!

Paul Uren- 4th Dan Plymouth 

Sixty SEKU members gathered for the Black & Brown Belt Course in Newport IOW Sunday 7^th February, many from the mainland and some having traveled the same day from Plymouth.  Sensei Mick Dewey opened the training following a short warm up given by SEKU Team Squad Captain Dave Galloway.  For the first section of the class Sensei Dewey stressed the importance of things fundamental to our style, Shotokan.  Great emphasis was put upon the use of hips during the change from basic blocks to reverse punch and the movement was repeated many times until he was satisfied all understood what was required.

Senior Instructor Mervyn O'Donnell was next, following on from the content of the recent instructor class where the theme was the standardization of all Heian Kata.  The Kata were revised again along with some interesting applications.  The last part of the day was given over to Senior Instructor Brian Smith who covered the basic stances and gave drill for the Dan Grade examination that was to follow for those candidates who had applied to enter.

Although there were some prominent faces missing it was a very good day and the general feedback from those in attendance has been very positive.

Dan Grade successes on the day were: