Kagamibiraki 2004

Banzaï 2004
As this image suggests, the Kagamibiraki 2004 was dynamic, joyful and very friendly.

Some 90 participants attended this traditional meeting close to the heart of all the members of the FEJ. The theme of the gasshuku, of which a calligraphy was hung to the Shomen is pronounced "Hyaku Shaku Kanto ni Ippo wo susumu" and means "when you reach your goal, make one more step. This concept passed on to me by Ishitobi Sensei who came to Geneva for showing calligraphy, in November 2003, asks the question: "When you reach your goal, what to do?" The answer is of course subjective. That extra step can be made, after making a full turn, in the direction of the basics. It is, at least, my favourite interpretation.

During these three days of intense training, we have reviewed the main corrections brought by Nishioka Sensei during the Summer Gasshuku in Vesc. A great part of the Gasshuku was devoted to Kihon practice and to Ran-Ai deep training. One hour of Kusarigama/Jutte waa quite appreciated by the seniors. For the first time, Coco and Michel demonstrated the Oku part of the Isshin Ryu Kusarigamajutsu.

Before the Gasshuku, I had a thorough discussion with the Chuden concerning the future of the Federation/Ryû. No one lasts for ever and I think we have to prepare ourselves so our Federation/Ryû can continue providing ground for everyone wishing to work on oneself in order to better integrate our society that is severely missing connection with its values. More explanations are to be found in the section FEJ Structures - General Assembly Report.

An examination session was held to compensate for the lack of it during the Summer Gasshuku in 2003. Gérard Payeur France) passed his 5th Kyu (welcome in the Ryu), Luis Gonzalez (Venezuela) passed his 3rd Kyu, Kerstin Bock passed her 1st Kyu, Bernard Hobmayer (Austria), Gaby Yo (Netherlands), Giulio Casarini (Switzerland), Peter van Bruggink (Netherlands), Dominique Fevre (France) and Jacky Ponsot (France) all passed their 1st Dan. Congratulations to all.

Groupe

A long time faithful participant to the Kagamibiraki was missing. He sent us Frida, the youngest trainee in Sweden, that he received as a X'mas present. Congratuations to Mia and Michael.

Banzaï 2004
Looking at her marks, she fought bravely for his Daddy. Welcome in the FEJ.

I shall not forget that this nice event could not happen without the great help of the Geneva trainees. In the name of the Federation, I thank, from the bottom of my heart the following persons: Jean-Pierre Pahud for his excellent organization; Georges Kraus, Daniel Lüscher, Christina, Félix, Sergio, Vincent, Alain and a few others who bought the food and cleaned the whole area after the Gasshuku. Thanks, finally to Claude Duverney for his excellent cooking.

Finally, Monica, of the Swedish group, sent us some pictures you may be willing to have a look at clicking on this link.

Pascal Krieger



Records