Australia Gasshuku

From July 31st to August 7th, Jim sensei and 10 brown belt and above junior high, high, and university students spent a week training in Melbourne, Australia. The weather was cold, but the hospitality was warmer than ever imagined. 

For most, both Aikido and English are still work in progress... this gasshuku proved communication through martial arts is possible. 

The Aikido Shudokan honbu dojo is a beautiful fully functional facility. Huge mat space, reception, offices, showers, toilets, changing rooms, kitchen, dining area, and plenty of rooms to accomodate visitors.

Thambu sensei as well as all of the instructors, regular members, friends and family went far and beyond in hosting us.

Everyday we were up at 5am taking turns in groups to make breakfast. Next was the special morning class. Usually during lunch we would take hikes though different parks, visit the city or just enjoy time chatting with new friends. In the afternoon, a couple more classes, followed by dinner, parties, events and so on. 

The 6 days flew by and before we knew it, it was time to head back to hot and humid Tokyo.

Of course there were some differences in technique, but more importantly were the similarities... not only on the mat, but off. All the people we had met had a sincere love for aikido, a desire to improve, held integrity for the art, and showed camaraderie and mutual respect for both juniors and seniors. 

Thanks again to Thambu sensei and all involved in making this an unforgettable experience.