More grading successes at Toronto Branch:
Jonathan passed his examination for 5th Kyu on March 12, 2022.
John McCulloch passed the examination for Hokai rank Junhanshi on February 25, 2022.
We look forward to more members advancing in the coming months.
Kesshu
We were delighted to return to the dojo in November 2021 after a very long pandemic break.
Unfortunately, our joy turned out to be shortlived as the Omicron wave caused a shutdown of all gyms in Ontario.
Today we were back in action for the first time after relxation of the Omicron restrictions and it was a wonderful experience!
We hope that our training can now continue without interruption.
Gassho
Toronto Branch had the distinct honour of conducting Chinkon-gyo at the January 22, 2022 WSKO Official Online Seminar.
In common with previous WSKO online seminars, this event was attended by members from WSKO branches all over the world.
Arai Shoji sensei led the kihon section and initial hokei instruction.
Kawashima sensei followed with an in-depth review of technical questions sent in by members.
We would like to thank WSKO Hombu for making this event (and other online seminars) possible during the current pandemic restrictions.
Gassho
Practicing together after such a long gap was an incredible (and quite emotional) experience.
We will be holding two live classes per week (Tuesdays and Saturdays) at this location from now on.
Jonathan was able to be presented with his pre-pandemic 6th kyu certificate at long last!
Gassho
Greetings!
It's been a long time since we shared a post, so it's a good idea to provide an update on what's happening at Toronto Branch.
The practice space we have used at CAMH since 1995 was closed to the public when the COVID-19 pandemic hit Toronto. CAMH has not re-opened the space to community users so far. Furthermore, there is no clear guidance as to when (or if) this will occur.
Meanwhile, we have been continuing to regularly host online classes for Toronto Branch members. We have also been attending the online training sessions provided by Shorinji Kempo Hombu and online events hosted by other WSKO branches.
Given the uncertainty regarding our CAMH practice location, we have been looking at a range of alternative practice spaces and hope to restart live practice soon. Please stay tuned for details.
Finally, Toronto Branch members will be playing a bigger role in the management of the Canadian Shorinji Kempo Federation during the current officer term.
We wish you all happiness, peace and good health!
Gassho
