6/25 tests in Kasukabe

A few pictures from last Saturday`s joint tests in Kasukabe.

The first group with members from Meiryukan Kazo and Kumagaya, tested for ranks from 3rd to 2nd kyu. All four of them are junior high school students and have been putting in hard work both at school and at the dojo. 

It has been tough for them to balance studies and aikido, however, they made the effort and got the results. Great job!

Following the 12 and 13 year olds, was 70 year old Kamaeguchi-san from the Meiryukan Saitama club testing for 1st kyu. Being a solo grading, all eyes were on him. Add that pressure to the high 30`s blistering heat and you have yourself a test. Calm and focused. A no miss test. Otsukare sama deshita.

The 3rd group was for shodan. Both these youngsters from Meiryukan Fukiage have been at it for about 8 or 9 years. From grade school, junior high, high school and now heading to University. Been a pleasure watching them grow both in and out of the dojo. Proud to have some new young black belts. Congratulations!