Visit from Brazil

On October 30 we had the pleasure of welcoming Daniel Estima Bandeira (2nd dan) from the Porto Allegre North Branch of Brazil to our dojo.

Daniel was on vacation in Ontario and Quebec and wanted to visit our practice.

We greatly enjoyed our time together and hope we can get a chance to train in Brazil in future!

Gassho

US Federation Super Visit!

On August 14 we were extremely fortunate to have a visit from seven members of the Orange County, Los Angeles and Yuma Branches of the US Federation.

The delegation was organized by Rastogi sensei of Orange County Branch - a long time friend of ours.

Our joint practice was superb - we really enjoyed being able to pair up with the expert kenshi from California and Arizona.

Rastogi sensei gave us a heart-warming lecture on what Shorinji Kempo means to him and his motivation for teaching.

Finally, the delegates gave us a bunch of great swag!

It really doesn't get any better than this!

Gassho

My time at Toronto Branch - Takuya Shimakura

Takuya Shimakura (3rd dan) at Toronto Branch (front row, 3rd from right)

We were fortunate to have Mr. Takuya Shimakura (3rd dan) from the Osaka region train with us throughout September 2014.  We all greatly enjoyed having him spend time with us.

Following his visit he sent us this kind note:

Gassho,

I had great time in Toronto Branch.

It is very interesting for me to practice in abroad. At first, I was little nervous. But this feeling has faded away soon because Toronto Branch's people are very kind and sociable.

And I could improve not only my Shorinji Kempo skill but also English skill. I'm going to extend this knowledge around the world in the future.

I really appreciate your favor. I never forget you. If I had opportunity to visit Toronto again, I'll never fail to go Toronto Branch.

Thank you very much.
PS. Finally I could see Aurora in Whitehorse!!
Kesshu
Takuya Shimakura
Kwansei Gakuin University
Koshien Shibu

Tokai University Reunion - Sayako Takahashi

With Sayako Takahashi (3rd from right, front row)

On August 21 we were fortunate to have a visit from Ms. Sayako Takahashi (3rd dan) of Tokai University Branch in Kanagawa, Japan.  It was especially good to see her since Toronto branch master John McCulloch was a student at Tokai University in 1985 and trained in the same dojo under the same teacher (Hiate sensei, 8th dan).

We were very impressed by Sayako's sharp and accurate technique. Indeed, she previously earned first place at the Tokyo Taikai - a great achievement.

Sayako was kind enough to share some comments on her visit to Toronto Branch:

"I joined Toronto Branch on August 21st. I practiced with the members and could experience the strength and power of the people. I was surprised "Chin-kon-gyou" was in English while other parts of the class used Japanese commands.

It was a great time. I want to visit to Toronto again sometime..."

Sayako - we'd love to have you back any time!

Gassho