Kagamibiraki 2010
For the 11th consecutive year now, our EJF "Family event" took place from January 8 to January 10, 2010 in Cartigny with the assistance of two "native" people: Jean-Pierre Pahud and Claude Duverney. Despite Michel Ducret's and my physical form somewhat limited, despite Michel Colliard's absence (who fell ill), and despite Sergio Dieci's partial absence, our annual event was quite successful under Fred Quant's technical direction.
As usual, more than hundred participants were able to train in a quite limited space. The kitchen was superb, the atmosphere warm-hearted, and these are not only words as you will see later.
I am well aware of the fact that the group of teachers is getting older, that's why I thought adding two new people as of Kagamibiraki 2011: Jean-Pierre Pahud and Lorenzo Trainelli. All teachers agreed with me for this choice because of the undeniable technical competence of these two, but above all because of their personality and the great confidence I have in them.
The EJF accounts are healthy. Financially speaking, this year's meeting has left a small benefit of 150 EUR for the EJF, after having paid all expenses for the teachers and contributors as well as all other charges.
The seminar ended with two Shodan exams: José Luiz (Vicente's student) and Félix (student from Geneva) who received their 1st dan.
Every year I try not to forget to thank all those who have helped us in a humble and efficient way, making this event a successful and trouble-free one, including the cleaning on Sunday evening. I say that "I try not to forget", because those people don't push themselves to the fore which means they are almost unnoticed.
And later on I have learned (another proof of humility) that several Jodoka from Geneva returned to Cointrin airport when they realized that several planes were unable to leave Switzerland, so they brought those who were blocked at the airport to their home and early in the morning back to the airport. I must say that this has really touched me. Once more, this has convinced me that the European Jodo is really a big family and I am proud to be a member of it.
I do not mention the names of all the volunteers whom I know by name but I thank them from the bottom of my heart.
All the best to everybody, thanks for having supported our nice meeting by taking part in it and see you at Tata (Budapest) end of July.
Pascal Krieger
Although the theme of the Gasshuku written in calligraphy and placed at the Shomen is somewhat hidden by all the persons on the picture, many of them have followed this Confucian comment: "What I hear I forget, for I see I remember, what I do I understand".
A small glass of sake in front of everybody and two arms in the air altogether, this seems to be a magic moment for some, but a strong band that ties together all groups.
The gym in Cartigny seems to be a little bit narrow sometimes, however, it looks enormous with the windows opening to the environment, making it a very special training place.
Fédération Européenne de Jodo / European Jodo Federation