Reported by:

Don Corrigal
Michelle Gillespie
Steve Doyle
Dana Yoneda
Michael Simmons
Curtis Mason
Daymon Miller
Dan Ogloff
Denis Forget
Eric Wilson
Matt Stuckenberg
Alexander Kleschelsky

Eleven Dan candidates successfully fulfilled testing requirements and passed the grading.

Summer Camp 2009 
By Don Corrigal

Summer Camp for the IKOK(C) has become one of our longest running events. The camp was started in 1984 in Kelowna and was held in various locations up & down the Okanagan Valley for the first 5 years and for the last 20 years at the Riverside Community Center in Ashton Creek, BC. In the 25 ensuing years the camp has hosted such Kyokushin luminaries as Shihan Bobby Lowe (IKO Chairman), and guests from around the world.  

This year�fs offering was held notable in that it was the largest compliment of  IKOK(C) Kyokushin practitioners in the last 25 years and some of the hottest weather on record, topping 40⁰C during the weekend. Not the cold & frozen Great White North of myth & fable!  

Given the intensity of Kyokushin training, this added an extra dimension to the training, particularly the IKOK(C)�fs annual dan grading kumite held at the camp. The temperatures in the hall during the afternoon of kumite exceeded 45⁰C and the senior instructors spent much of their time ensuring that the fighters were not experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke. The camp openned on Friday night with a short lecture on the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke to ensure that all camp participants were well prepared to self assess over the course of the 4 day camp.  

There were 200+ registered participants for the camp this year, ranging from 5 years to 76 years of age. Our most experience kyokushin student was Sensei Jan Tereszczenko of the Edmonton Dojo and sometimes the Singapore Dojo. Sensei Jan trained all sessions and showed true Kyokushin spirit in the heat, although many of the seniors were worried about Sensei�fs health and were constantly checking him to ensure he was well. In true Jan fashion, he trained hard and completed the weekend�fs training. His spirit & example did not go unnoticed by the other participants.  

Congratulations Sensei Jan!!!! 

The IKOK(C) has tried to ensure a balance at this camp hard training, family oriented & supported activities, and fun for all members of the IKOK(C). The camp�fs organizer, Sensei Larry Robinson, again set a high standard for organizational functions. The theme this year was Mexico and the annual Sayonara Banquet & Family Dance was focused on Mexican food & drink. Over 300 people crammed into the Riverside hall on Friday night to socialize and join in the Kyokushin family of the IKOK(C). Sensei Larry extended the Mexican theme to the after-training and brought a dozen piñatas. A piñata was brought up to the front of class at the end of each training session, along with a watermelon. The class instructor for each session then decided who trained hardest that session and were awarded a watermelon for their efforts. A welcome cool treat after 2 hours of training. The kids were then lined up, the piñata was hung and the children then were given a chance to break the piñata with a kick or a punch, which usually took several tries. The content was spilled on the group and the camp participants then could join in getting a treat after seiza. 

The highlight for me is always the dan grading kumite. This is the culmination of 6 months testing for those wishing to grade for ShoDan or higher. 11 fighters lined up at 1pm on the Sunday before the Sayonara party in temperatures that exceeded 45⁰C in the hall. The youngest applicant was 19 years old and the oldest was 47 years old. This year�fs group showed the highest level of technique and fitness ever. Of paticular note was the effort of Curtis Mason, 47 years old, 2 broken ribs and completed a 20 man fight.  

Congratulations Sempai Curtis! 

I am especially gratified in a number of the candidates that trained with me; Sempai Dan Ogloff – NiDan, Matt Stukenberg-ShoDan. Both spent 10 years training with me and now train at the Richmond Dojo with Shihan Stuart. It is truly humbling to have had the opportunity to work with these young men and have had some small impact on their lives.

 Congratulations Sempais Dan & Matt! 

Special thanks go to the following individuals: 

• Sensei Larry, his hard work & commitment to the IKOK(C) stands out, only exceeded by his humour & humility. My deepest thanks to Sensei for our friendship and training time together over the years.
• Sensei Larry�fs students, their support of Sensei�fs work does not go un-noticed.
• Sensei�fs son Kevin & his new bride were his gophers for the weekend
• The instruction team:
  • Shihan Stuart
  • Sensei Larry
  • Sensei Terry
  • Sensei Leo
  • Sensei Kathy
  • Sensei Tats
  • Sensei Dean
  • Sempai Hiro
  • Sempai Jeremy
  • Sempai Cliff
  • Sempai Dawn-leah
  • Sempai Laszlo
  • Sempai Maxine
  • Sherry Bawtinheimer
• Sensei Brad – Photographer
• All the fighter that helped with the Dan grading kumite

Again my congratulations to the new Sempais that successfully completed their grading: 

• Shodan:
  • Dana Yoneda
  • Mike Simmons
  • Matt Stukenberg
  • Michelle Gillespie
  • Damon Miller
  • Denis Forget
  • Eric Wilson
• Nidan
  • Steve Doyle
  • Alex Kleschelsky
  • Curtis Mason
  • Dan Ogloff

Until next year, train hard and let your dojo mates know what they are missing. 

Osu  

Don Corrigal

Round Trip to White
By Michelle Gillespie

August 2, 2009�crecord-high temperatures, record-high camp attendance, and record-high nerves. These are the things I felt when I woke up on the Sunday morning of the final piece of my Shodan grading. Here it was�cthe day I had visualized a thousand times�cnot just in the last 8 months but in the last 13 years. In all of my years of training I have only missed Summer Camp one time – so I knew how it was all going to go down, and what to expect of the day. Twelve times I had watched groups of candidates gather in that community hall – hot, nervous, confident, prepared – to meet the final challenge of their dan grading. Twelve times I had put myself in their shoes, wondering how it would feel just before the fights - the anticipation and terror - and how it would feel afterwards - the incredible high of overcoming the limits of my own body and spirit, and the sheer joy at just getting through it. 

Now it was my turn. Even with the 8+ months of having the grading process as my constant companion and part of almost every conscious thought, and after several grading sessions already that weekend, the day still felt surreal.  

In addition to facing my own personal challenges with fighting, on that day I also faced my final shot at the board-breaking component of my grading.  Yoda spoke in my head all morning: �gDo or do not�cthere is no try�c�h 

With a lot less drama than I had many times imagined, my board-breaking went smoothly. I am forever indebted to the guys in the club who held boards for me week after week, encouraging me each time and helping me polish my �egrit�f. My Sensei shared with me words of wisdom given to him once by Sensei Herb Milton, and those words resonated deeply.  

And then it was time. A quick swim in the river to cool off, a few moments of meditation with my favourite get-pumped-up music, and it was into the hall. Just the smell of that hall conjures memories for me of dan gradings gone by. Maybe there is not such an emotional connection for everyone, but for me there certainly is. This is the place where years of training culminate in a single point for so many students year after year. This is where we put it all to the test, and leave it all on the table. 

Once it all began, I was positively blown away at a few things: how fast it all went, how exhausting it was, how amazingly supportive the opponents were, how exhilarating the crowd was, and most of all how I was so completely focused on the voice of my Sensei, coach, best friend, and husband Brad. Experiencing all of this with him was indescribable. Only he and I can know how this experience has connected us, both in Kyokushin and in our marriage.  

By the time we got to our last fight it felt as though everyone in the room was pushing us all forward, channeling all of their own spirit, helping us cross that finish line. It was amazing. I am especially grateful to Shihan Stuart, Shihan Don, Sensei Terry, and Sensei Leo who were all literally right there – not allowing me to back down, or to fall down. 

When it was all over I fell into the arms of my final opponent, my dear friend Jose Potter, and let it all go. What a feeling. 

One of the most powerful aspects of the whole experience for me was the bond of support and camaraderie formed with my fellow candidates. Here was a group of individuals from all over western Canada, who didn�ft know each other especially well, coming from all ages and backgrounds�cunited by a common goal, helping to press one another forward.  

This is karate. I thank each and every one of them. 

Now, at the end of it all, here I am - right back at the beginning. My black belt is white once again. But this time I am stronger, wiser, humbled, and grateful. And ready for the new journey ahead. 

Thank you to everyone. Really�c..everyone. 

Osu

Michelle Gillespie
Shodan

Summer Camp
by Steve Doyle

On Thursday the 30th of July we set out from Stony Plain at 6:30am. We had a gorgeous and uneventful drive to Enderby,arriving at 5:00 pm. Sitting around Thursday night some guitars were brought out and a late evening was had by many. Friday being the first official day of camp friends from far and wide began to show up. The Dan candidates always have a special bond and this year was no exception. Thanks to all of them for their support and encouragement. Friday night was our first training session and as always it didn't disappoint. We had some supper then off to bed because 5:30am comes early. After our run the Nidan Candidates helped Sempai Jeremy lead the camp through Kihon. The rest of Saturday is now just a blur. Eat something, training, rest and water, training, eat and swim, training.....well you get the idea. There was no time to stress about the upcoming fighting. Sunday morning we started early with a run, including Sempai Jeremy's special wind sprints up and down the first hill. Later that morning the Dan candidates gathered in the hall to help the ones who still needed to break. For me it was a pleasure to help by being a holder. I took away a very special memory of Sempai Michelle completing her breaks. Her and I have had many discussions on how to break and working on a strategy. Unfortunately one candidate did not complete the breaking component. After that was the fighting. All of the candidates were tremendous in their fighting. At the end of the fighting all 11 were successful. All the new Dans said the same thing, that the stress of the last 8 months was gone. Personally I felt exhausted. After a quick training session it was time to get ready for supper and the dance. A great time was had by all. The next morning some were leaving and some went to the last training. After training there were many goodbyes and we can't wait till next year. Special thanks to Shihan Stuart and Shihan Don for their advice, encouragement and instruction. Thanks to Sensei Larry and his crew for working so hard to have another successful camp. I would also like to thank Sensei Leo, my first instructor, for being there as always. When we meet it is always a special time. Congratulations to the new Dans.

 Osu

Steve Doyle

Stony Plain Kyokushin Karate

�@

Summer Camp 2009
By Dana Yoneda 

On my way to Ashton Creek for this year's summer camp was unlike any other summer camp I've attended. As a Dan candidate I wondered if it's wasn't too late to turn back but I was on a mission to complete what I started. Sempai Laszlo, Shoko, and myself arrived in mid-afternoon. We set up our tents, got everything organized, and then waited for the first training session to begin. As more and more people entered the hall, I was able to meet old acquaintances and my fellow Dan candidates. The training was hard particularly in the heat and humidity and I couldn't help but think if I would be ready for my fights on Sunday in perhaps hotter conditions. After training, it was time to cool off in the river, eat dinner, and off to bed. 

Saturday morning, we assembled in the field to start our morning run at 6am. This is not my idea of fun but after running for a while, you begin to wake up and get a good sweat going. We ran for a ways at a moderate pace and then headed back and did some more exercises in the field. We had our breakfast and then headed off to Yoga class. I didn't mind the Yoga because it really stretches you out well and was a welcome change of pace. Sherri is a great Yoga instructor and I am always amazed at how many different ways you can contort your body. Our first Dan candidate training was next with Shihan Stuart. He wanted us to demonstrate that we improved on things that we did not do so well in our Technical Exam. The Shodan candidates did the Kihon and the Nidan candidates did the more advanced combinations, Ido Geiko, and Sanbon Kumite. Bo training was next with Sempai Laszlo. After the three Bo Kata's we did a version of Happo no Kuzushi with the Bo. Since I am one of his students, I have seen it all before but I think it was great to teach it to others. With time running short we were able to do some elementary sparing with the Bo as well. I think word got out that his Bo class was great because the next day he got a lot more students than in his first class. The second Dan candidate training was the last training for the day with Shihan Don. This time some of us had to demonstrate improvement in our Katas by doing the Katas in front of him and some had to show the practical application or bunkai.  

Sunday morning was the big day. At 6 AM, it was time to run again. Sempai Jeremy took the younger students and the Dan candidates with him to the big hill for our training. I did not envision that we would be doing wind sprints, hopping, and running backwards all uphill. I should have known that it would be hard based on our grouping and Sempai Jeremy's "boot camp" training. I did my best but I didn't want to be exhausted before our fights in the afternoon.  After breakfast it was off to the field where I chose intermediate Kata, which was the choice of most of the Dan candidates. We worked mostly on Tsuki no Kata and Geksai Dai and then the Dan candidates did the count on the Kata of their choice. Next, we had the board breaking for the Dan candidates in the hall. I was glad that I was able to complete this at Winter Camp because it would have created a lot of anxiety. It was time to relax and prepare for my fights. 

When I walked into the hall for my fights, I looked around at the spectators and my opponents on the other side and felt surprisingly calm but I knew in a few minutes, one the biggest challenges in my life was about to begin. Would I have enough stamina to finish my fights? Would I be injured? These are thoughts that entered my mind. I could feel the increasingly hot and humid air in the hall and wondered if this would be my undoing. I also thought about the 9 years of hard Kyokushin training that I put in leading up to this. My final test was about to begin.  

When our group was called up, I felt relaxed and confident. I started slowly to get a feel for the fighting but I had to increase the intensity as Shihan told me to pick up the pace. I started to warm up and get a rhythm going in my kicks and punches. I had to protect myself better though as I was taking too many shots especially from the better fighters. Again, I was told by Shihan to pick up the pace so I started to throw harder punches and kicks. In the middle rounds, even when my opponents were hitting hard, I was able to hit back hard as well and I knew that I could take the pounding. I don't remember too much about rounds 7 and 8 as I was running on adrenaline only. When I heard that it was round 9, I wondered how I got this point, it was like rounds 6-8 was erased from my memory. I was still in a fog in this round but I kept going. I finally reached the last round and I knew that Sempai Laszlo was standing in front of me but I barely recognized him because I was so tired. I knew he would come at me hard but it was my last round and I just gave it all I had. I do remember being absolutely overwhelmed by him but it didn't matter because I knew I would complete my fights. When it was finally over, we embraced. Surprisingly, I didn't get emotional maybe because I was too tired. In retrospect, it was one of the greatest moments of my life to celebrate the moment with my friend and mentor Sempai Laszlo who is my greatest supporter. I owe it all to you. I also want to thank Shihan Stuart for letting me complete my 10-man and to Sensei Terry for guiding me through my fights. It's a moment that I will always remember.  

As we stood in line for the black belt ceremony, I was not only proud of what I accomplished but I was also proud for all of the Dan candidates. We showed character and spirit that allowed each of us to pull through and I clapped loudly for each one of us receiving our belts. It was well deserved. 

For the next training session after the fights, each one of us got to teach for 5 minutes. This session was difficult for me and I suspect some others as I had the Kyokushin Shuffle going on and it was difficult   to move around and lift my legs but it was a pleasure since all of the pressure was off and we could all enjoy ourselves. It was a great feeling to have achieved my goal. 

The dinner and dance was a great ending to our day as we could finally relax and celebrate our accomplishment. We left the next day after the last training and said our good-bye�fs while I looked forward to my life getting back to normal. It was tough preparing for this but it was worth it in the end. I'll always have fond memories to look back on. Maybe I'll do it again in a few years time.  

 Osu,

Dana Yoneda

�@

Summer Camp 2009
By Michael Simmons

             It was not an easy sleep that night before summer camp. That good old nervous feeling sitting in the pit of my stomach was a reminder of what was to come in the next few days. Although a few words of encouragement from my Sempai�fs and fellow students really did help to put my mind at ease. But it wasn�ft the summer camp itself that had my nerves up in arms, it was that fact that I, along with 11 other of my fellow followers of the Kyokushin way would be testing for our Dan gradings.

I don�ft think it was until the first Dan candidate class of the camp that I realized how close we were to the end of our testing process and the grand finale of the test itself, the ten and twenty man fights. This whole past year I�fm sure we had all been thinking about it since the day we knew our applications had been accepted. This final moment, this conclusion was too near to be true.

            I had expressed my anxieties to my fellow candidates who, in response shared some of the revelations of their own with me. Things like, how it would be a real problem if I wasn�ft nervous, and how this will be the only time we will ever be here in this stage again so I might as well enjoy the moment. Yes, of course they were right, these words of wisdom helped greatly to relieve the stress.

When the time came for the last act of the Dan testing process, anxiety and excitement filled the air. What a strange sensation it was to be on the other side of the ring that divided the fighter�fs rotation line-up from the Dan candidates. But there was a definite camaraderie that I am sure we all felt, standing side-by-side against the daunting challenge that we all faced together. I can�ft remember exactly what we were saying to each other; too much adrenaline for the moment, but it was all very supportive. Stepping up to the ring that day was different then it had ever been before, this was it, the last test.

 When it was all done, and we had completed our fights, the great anxiety and nervousness that I had been feeling had lifted. There were smiles and cheers everywhere. We stood before our Shihans, Senseis, Sempais and fellow students, it was the moment that I had dreamed about since I was seven years old. And yet, as odd as it may seem, it felt like only a beginning, it felt like there was still so much more to learn and so much further to go. But as with everything there is only ever room for improvement. One can only become more experienced and improved with time and practise. After all, gaining the belt is the easiest part; the real challenge lies in living up to it.

For this final epilogue I need to take a moment to thank all that have trained and guided me throughout this journey. I would like to thank both Shihan Stuart and Shihan Don for all of their support throughout the organization and for putting on such a test. Thanks to Sensei Larry for putting on a most excellent camp, an excellent dinner and for pushing me during my ten man fights when times were getting tough. And thank you to all of my fellow Dan candidates for all the support and advice through this experience. I am glad we all got to know each other better because of it.

Thank you to all my fellow students at North Richmond Dojo, and to Sempai�fs Jeremy, Terry, Tracey, Janice, Rita, and Rick. You all continue to be an inspiration to me. And a very special thanks to Sensei Tony Severs, my first Sensei who taught me many life lessons that would help me to become the person that I am today.

Osu,
Michael Simmons.

�@

Summer Camp 2009
By Curtis Mason 

Arrived for the first time a day in advance then hunted for a plot of land to set up camp.

Songs and guitar through the night with Steve Doyle-Nidan applicant and others that offered their vocals when a familiar phrase was belted out. By the way Neil Rowley loves Billy Idol�c

Friday morning slept in. Swam at least 10 times to regulate the body temperature. More arrive for Friday evening training. Another bit of singing and by the way Neil loves Billy Idol. 

Saturday morning run at 6am very nice although the sheep in the pasture had something to say to us about being a little early with the chanting �gKyokushin Fighter�h as we ran by. 

More training and more heat = many more trips to the river. I swam across the river and back to cool off. The water level was quite low this year and the current slower as well. 

More training and then some very well appreciated Yoga instructed by Sherry Bawtinheimer. I must take more time to do this, as it feels pretty good for an active body. 

Later Saturday during a Dan Candidate session I learned the correct way to execute a technique in part of Seipai that did not make sense or flow well until shown an alternate and superior method by Shihan Don. For all that may read this�c do yourself and your kohais a favour and never take for granted the opportunity to receive instruction from our most senior members. There is a vast amount of techniques, bunkai�fs and knowledge for which we must be very grateful to have the opportunity to receive. The more time I spend looking for answers and information, the more I realize how little I know and how much more there is to learn. This also applies to all aspects of ones life. When one learns more techniques, kata, etc, they then have more combinations and variations of which exponentially increase the possibilities. I believe that one will always be able to acquire something new with Kyokushin for an entire lifetime. 

Bo Kata was instructed by Laszlo Antal and was quite a popular session. He showed the students some very impressive and advanced Bo Kata that will create even more interest in training to acquire the skills necessary to perform them. Water training was the next part and a perfect way to finish some hard training in the heat and was probably quite a sight for some local passers by, especially watching so many people in dogis floating down the river. 

Saturday evening closes with more song. By the way, Neil loves Billy Idol and also Elvis. 

Sunday - Fight Day 

Began with a 6am run while keeping the peace with the resident sheep, followed by more training. Yoga/Kihou was instructed by Hiro Hayashi and was a different method from the previous day by way of concentrating on opening up the joints. I am an amateur at Yoga so can only offer my opinion on how well I enjoyed both methods very much. 

The time has come to complete the final phase of my Nidan testing. 

7 Shodan Candidates to attempt 10 fights and 4 Nidan Candidates 20 fights. To me, one of the most memorable and strongest emotional parts of Summer Camp is immediately after a Dan Candidate completes their fighting. To watch the individual and personal struggle within each and every one of them is what Kyokushin is about. It is how they deal with the challenge. It is part of a personal and spiritual journey full of emotions that are also seen by those who witness it. I cannot speak for everyone else, but I know that I get a tear in my eye for every one I have witnessed.

The strategy, which I had for completing my 20 man had to be adjusted and was the most intense physical challenge I have ever experienced. After about 12 fights my body was slowing down. After about 15 or 16 it wanted to quit. My decision to push through was almost surreal in that I had to almost remove myself from my body and mentally continue. Although my brother Greg was not one of my fights, I appreciate his support and all the training he shared with me. Having my son (a new karateka) participate in this journey was also very meaningful to me and I am impressed that he understood to keep the intensity high as it was not a time to be gentle but a time to support me in testing myself to the max. Michi Nagase, a very dedicated fighter and training partner helped me with this as well. The last fight with Sensei Tats Nakamura was as it should be and for that I am also very grateful. 

The support of everyone in the hall was overwhelming and to be a part of the group of other Dan candidates will be memorable. Wow what a ride�c 

Tradition has it that upon completion of the fighting that the Dan Candidates must give a 5-minute instruction to the field of Camp Participants. I decided on Kumite Dachi, followed by migi suri-ashi with gedan barai (kawashi) followed by gyaku and oi tsuki then a hidari chudan mawashi geri�chantai. 

Sayonara party was fantastic as usual and I had a special toast with my Comrade and Dan Candidate Alex Kleschelsky who also trained very hard with me leading up to this day. He is a man who I also have a lot of respect for. A night of dancing, interesting games, toasts, and food. .  

Finishing with a bit of song again where I must tell you that Neil loves Billy Idol. 

The dinner was amazing and I thank Sensei Larry Robinson for all the work, organizing and time he put into this event. Thank you Shihan Stuart and Shihan Don for all that you put in to Kyokushin.  

The intense training was necessary to complete this day and I thank Sensei Tats, Michi, Alex, Chris, Pasha and all VKK members who helped me prepare for this. Congratulations to all the other Dan Candidates on our journey together. 

Osu,

Curtis Mason

�@

SHODAN
By Daymon Miller 

Shodan. Meaning.  

As I write this summary of my experience as a shodan candidate the word �gmeaning�h keeps coming to mind. One of the most important things that I have learned to appreciate about the grading process for shodan is that the grade has weight to it.  

Substance – Validity - Meaning 

For me, the sweetest rewards in life come from things that are most difficult to achieve. Those things most difficult to achieve, that require the most time, effort and commitment have the most meaning to me because you have to earn them. I began Kyokushin Karate 8 years ago and have envisioned a shodan that I would have to do no less than earn. My experience so far on my journey has not disappointed in that regard. 

The grading for my shodan was comprehensive. The application process alone requires us to assemble documents, summarize our history in Kyokushin, attend camps, write an exam, perform a technical demonstration, have an interview amongst our peers and perform tameshiwari (board breaking). The culmination of the grading process is completing 10 rounds of fighting at summer camp.  

While going through the grading process I was able to reflect on my career in Kyokushin and came to realize the amount of effort required just to reach the application stage. I began to appreciate the amount of time committed to reach this point. Years of training, visiting dojos, attending training camps, tournaments and more recently passing on the information I have learned through instructing. My point is that one cannot even be considered for shodan until a certain level of effort and commitment has been demonstrated. You have to earn the privilege to even grade, it is not a right, and for that I am thankful. Passing the grading process is no less arduous. 

�gEveryone owns a piece of your belt,�h said Shihan Corrigal once. I remember these words from my first summer camp nearly 8 years ago. Not only has the effort to reach this point required a great deal of me, but it has also depended on the commitment and generosity of others. Every person I have had the opportunity to train with, learn from and fight has played a roll in my achievement. The collaboration of these people brings even more to the black belt I now wear. I know there is weight to it. I know it has validity because it did not come easy. I know it has substance, because it was hard. I know it has meaning because I had to earn it. 

Daymon Miller

Banff Dojo

Summer Camp 2009
By Dan Ogloff 

IKOK-C Summer Camp 2009 was a huge success for all those who attended.  This was the biggest, with around 300�c and hottest Summer Camp yet.  Camper�fs challenged themselves and worked together to reach new heights.   Activities included kihon, ido-geiko, kata, kumite, self-defense, bo, tameshiwari, yoga, Japanese yoga, water training, and of course the famous Sensei Larry and company bbq, and dance.  All participants were ready to try new things and improve upon skills they already have.  Ages ranged from five to late seventies, and instruction came from many talented instructors with a diverse range of ideas.  There is no limit to the amount of fun you can have at these camps. 

This year there was a large number of Dan candidates, and 11 of the 12 were promoted.  There are now four new nidans and seven new shodans, and it has been a real pleasure to go through the grading experience with all the reputable individuals.  One of the real pleasures for me personally was to go through the grading year with now Sempai Matt Stuckenburg.  Matt and I are twenty years apart and started training together almost fifteen years ago with Shihan Don in Cranbrook.  And as I reflect upon the weekend, I realize that the true victories are the ones in which you can witness the growth and development of the young people that come into your life through Kyokushin, and maybe have some part in helping them realize their potential.  I know that I would not be where I am without the support and guidance of our Shihan�fs, Sensei�fs, Sempai�fs, and Kohai�fs, both in the dojo and outside of the dojo.      

Tameshiwari is now a new requirement for Dan grading, and was done at Summer Camp for those who were unsuccessful at Winter Camp.  I myself, was unsuccessful at Winter Camp, and was frustrated with myself at that time.  It was there that Shihan Don had a chat with me and said that this was a good thing because I can now go back and practice and learn what I need to do.  This time when I faced the boards, everything felt better�c My stance, distance, and technique were solid.  This came, of course, only through practice.  I really like this requirement because it is measurable, challenging, and fun.  As Shihan Stuart said during one of the technical exams, �gYou don�ft have to win every tournament�c We fight to overcome ourselves.�h  During this grading year I have come to gain a deeper understanding of this.  There have been many days during practice and studying this year that I have felt that I don�ft know anything, I can�ft even perform a basic stance or technique, or asking myself, �gWhy am I even doing this?�h  And as the time goes on and you finally have a chance to reflect on everything, I come to the conclusion, as each time, that I do this to become a better person. 

Osu

See you all next year

Dan Ogloff

�@

Summer Camp
by Denis Forget

          This year�fs summer camp was the largest we had ever attended.  But that�fs not what made this camp special for me this year.  I was one of the dan candidates testing. Some of you have had the opportunity to experience summer camp from my perspective and for rest of you the experience is yet to come.  After a challenging six months of applications, interviews and testing the final leg of my shodan testing was drawing to a close at summer camp.  Here are some of my thoughts on this summer camp.

      We arrived at camp on the Friday around 4:00 PM and were amazed at the numbers of campsites that were set up.  Summer camp to me is about training hard, reconnecting with friends we haven�ft seen in some time, relaxing and meeting new friends. This year the relaxing part was not going to come until after the ten men Kumite. Knowing that my performance over the weekend was being monitored as part of my testing added to the pressure I already felt. I was a little stressed to say the least.  That evening words of encouragement and support came from everyone at camp which was greatly appreciated and went a long way in bringing my spirits up.  Saturday came and our dan testing classes began. Now Shihan Stuart had previously tested all the dan candidates before summer camp. Since none of us were perfect we all had some areas that required extra attention on our part to meet our belt requirements. Both dan testing classes that day focused on revisiting those problem areas as well as instructions on how to better overcome some of those areas. Saturday night I was tired but had trouble falling asleep, the ten men Kumite being on my mind.

Sunday 1:00 PM finally arrived and the start of the final step of our testing.  At this point all the stress, nervousness, anxiety and fear I felt was gone. I wasn�ft just ready to fight, I was eager to fight to earn my shodan belt. The first four fights flew by unfortunately so did my wind. I had to slow down and take control of the pace of the fights. The next five fights were extremely tiring. But with a few words of encouragement and love taps of Shihan�fs shinai I pressed on. As I entered my tenth fight I knew I needed to finish strong but my tank was running on empty.  As my last fight began the crowd�fs cheers and energy sent a burst of adrenaline through me enabling me to finish on a strong note.  After all the kumites were completed it felt great to be awarded the belt we had worked so long and hard to get.  Quick dip in the river, a few cold beverages and a wonderful supper prepared by Sensei Larry was the perfect ending to a perfect day.

      Thank you Shihan Stuart for all your help and support throughout the entire process. Thanks to all the Shihans; Senseis and Sempais for your great instructing. Special Thank you to Sensei Larry for organizing the entire weekend we appreciate all the work you did to make this camp happen. Thanks to everyone for your support and loud cheers it was very much appreciated.

       There were many lessons learned this weekend, to me, the most important came from Shihan Stuart as he spoke to all of us after awarding our belts and said �g Earning that belt is the easy part. Living up to it is going to be the challenge�h.

OSU

Denis Forget

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Shodan: One Man�fs Search for a Kyokushin Identity.
By Eric Wilson 

On Friday July 31, I loaded up the car to travel to Ashton Creek for the final leg in my journey to Shodan. As I drove the Coquihalla I reflected upon the process that the brought me to this stage�c.. 

I began training well into the previous century. My initial training goals were vague and undefined (other than surviving the early days) and did not include any belief that I would ever be able to qualify to grade for Shodan. 

Sometime into the current century I made the decision to make the application for consideration as a Dan Candidate. In February I received an email from Shihan Stuart advising that the application had been accepted. 

 <GULP.> 

And it began�c 

The first order of business was preparation for Winter Camp. At this camp, I was expected to write an exam, be interviewed by all the black belts at the camp as well as complete the breaking requirement, a new addition for this year. With the assistance of  Sensei Dean, Sempai Matt and Sempai Neil and the rest of the members of the Poco Dojo, I prepared as best I could.  Several great articles have been written about the trip, the Yellow Truck experience and the Rat Patrol, and I don�ft propose to rehash that here. Thankfully,  this phase went reasonably well, the boards broke the Dan Candidate interview was interesting, (to say the least) and the written exam went as well I could have hoped for. Something else, I got to know the other Dan Candidates a lot better, and was very glad I did. 

On to the next phase, which was the technical exam.  

This was a very intensive two-hour exam. What the process did was to expose weaknesses that needed correction by Summer Camp. It was as helpful and informative as it was physically exhausting, and you only have to look at the picture on the Dan Grading updates on the website (look down at the bottom picture for the old bald guy)  to see how exhausting it was. And, as some that were present can attest, I didn�ft step into the �gblack hole.�h  (current and previous Dan Candidates know what I am referring to)  I jumped into it.  

I jumped into it as if I was trying to do a cannonball into a swimming pool. Humbling. Very humbling.  

The final phase was summer camp. And my Kyokushin identity began to define itself�c  

A very unique phenomenon began to take shape between the technical exam and Summer Camp, the Dan Candidates came together as a mutually supportive team. This was a great help in controlling the nerves that naturally are associated with an undertaking such as this. 

Arriving late in the day, I met Sensei Dean and Sherry Bawtinheimer. He and Sherry very kindly had set the campsite up, they had stocked up on all the provisions and basically ensured that all I had to concern myself with was the training. This was a huge help for me. Thanks again guys! Our campsite also had several members of the Poco dojo in it and that was also a great help as well.  

Those who were at the camp, know how intense and hot the training was. It was phenomenal. And we as Dan Candidates were acutely aware of the hours ticking away until the Kumite on Sunday afternoon at 1:00 PM. 

The camp is the product of a ton of volunteer help, and this year was obviously no different. While there are many people responsible for it, Sensei Larry of the Armstrong Dojo spends a huge amount of time arranging for the facilities, and in spite of this even found time to create piñatas complete with candy on the inside for select groups to try to break open. A perfect fit for the sayonara theme, which was Mexican. Osu, Sensei, thank you for all that you do in the camp! 

Saturday night was midnight training involving 300 plus kicks with a whole lotta spirit. When that many camp participants are packed into the hall, you can�ft help but be swept up in the energy. It was great. 

Dawn broke, and training for Sunday arrived. I blinked and it was 12:54 and I made my way to the training hall, acutely aware that the six months that had existed between the time my application was approved and the final step had evaporated to six minutes. As I walked toward the hall, I was filled with enormous gratitude towards those who had so selflessly contributed to my being able to take part in this step and participate in the Kyokushin experience. Gratitude toward Shihan Stuart and Shihan Don, toward the Board of the IKOK-C toward all the volunteers that helped make this moment possible. Toward the members of the Poco dojo who gladly stepped up to provide me with encouragement, training partners and sparring partners. Toward Sempai Neil Rowley and Sempai Matt Hitchen for their insights and sense of humor. Toward Fiona who was such a huge support at home, understanding how important this was to me. Thank you all so much 

And especially toward my Sensei and great friend who taught me, motivated me, trained me and sacrificed more time than I care to imagine all for my benefit, Sensei Dean Bawtinheimer. Osu, Sensei, thank you. I couldn�ft have done it without you.  

Those that have completed the Kumite portion know how unique it is for each individual, and for me it was unquestionably the toughest thing I have ever done.   

It was here that my Kyokushin identity became crystal clear. It was perfect. It was completely in keeping with this year�fs theme! 

I was the Human Piñata.  

Osu!  

Eric Wilson,

Poco Dojo.

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Summer Camp
by Matt Stuckenberg

Osu 

There comes a time in a brown stripe�fs life when they decide that they want to move on. The belt they wear is nice and all, but coming all that way, a black belt is just one more step, is it not? 

Shodan means beginner. This may sound contradictory, and on a basic level it is, but on another level, not a truer word has been spoken. You are not a beginner in the sense where you couldn�ft spell Mawashi Geri if you tried, let alone count to ten in Japanese. You are not a beginner in that you do not know the Pinans. You are a more an informed beginner, one that knows how much you do not know. 

For me, each portion of the test was stressful, whether it was before, during, or after. Before the written exam, I remember reading Sosai�fs book, What is Karate. I remember reading his Zen Philosophy on Karate, and thinking to myself, �gIs this going to be on the test?�h Or the boards, a new element to the process. What if I didn�ft go through, what if I couldn�ft perform to the requirements set before me. On the other side of each portion, a sense of relief came, only to be replaced by more worry as the next milestone loomed. So, expect to be nervous. I doubt any of my comrades who graded this year or any other were stress free. 

I learned a lot about myself over the last year. I surprised myself many times, both on a positive note and a negative one. I think every one does. Determination to carry you through the grading process is a must. A will to refine, the ability to take criticism from you instructors and your kohai�fs and transform yourself into the best karate-ka you can be is a very important trait to develop. You can only learn so much from bowing into class twice a week and bowing back into your daily life, especially if you are in a large class. After a certain point, it is up to you to form the questions, ask them, and think about the answers. It is an endless process of not knowing, it really is.  

A friend of mine asked me where I could go from here. I told him I was already on my way; teaching, fighting, and planning to travel with a gi in my bag. When the belt was first tied around my waist, I felt a sense of accomplishment. The first time I tied it myself, I was nervous. Did I really deserve this? The second time, I was scared. Where am I going from here? Who will teach me now, and what must I be taught? The questions of course, answered themselves. There are always teachers, and we are lucky to be where we are in that we have world-renowned instruction in our backyards. That coupled with self-reflection and a desire to continue to learn will provide the directions for each individual karate ka. 

I want to take a moment to thank each of my fellow grading candidates, both successful and not. You made the process easier to manage, especially at Winter Camp before the interviews. Your hearty cheers after I climbed back up those stairs still ring in my ears. 

Also, thank you Shihan Stuart, for taking it upon yourself to see us all personally this year. I�fm sure I speak for all of the candidates when I say we appreciate the time, effort, and resources you put into our group.  

And lastly, thank you to all of my instructors, past and present. You have brought me to this point. Thank you for both easing the burden, and making in almost unbearable with a Shini to top it off. 

Osu 

Matt Stuckenberg

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Mission Accomplished
By Alexander Kleschelsky 

Summer Camp has always been a unique combination of great fun and hard work. To me Summer Camp of 2009 was special: I had to complete my Nidan test by going through a 20-man Kumite. 

I remember 5 years ago when I had to fight 10 men for my Shodan it seemed like quite a challenge. Now compared to 20 fights, 10 fights are only a warm up. 

Although it is easy to count the fights since we have a short water break after every 5 fights, I couldn�ft keep count of them. Most of the time I was on auto-pilot (is that what they call �gempty mind�h?).  At some point, I asked Sensei Terry how many fights I already did. He shrugged his shoulders: �gI don�ft know, let me find out�h. I honestly thought it was the 7^th or 8^th fight. When he came back, he said, �gThis one was the thirteenth�h. I was so relieved to hear that I already passed 10. After the 15^th fight, I heard people saying, �gAlex, 15 fights, you�fre doing good�h. For a moment, I thought 15 was a good number. Of course it�fs not 20, but it�fs half way past 10. Then I looked at Sempai Curtis: this 47-year-old man with a broken rib (Curtis broke his rib just a few weeks before the Camp) was still there throwing his injured body onto his opponents�f punches and kicks. How could I give up? 

The final �eYame�f felt so good. I won�ft deny I was glad it was over. However, the most rewarding part was the feeling of utter satisfaction, the feeling of achievement. It was a moment when one can finally relax and say �eMission Accomplished�f.  

Later when people congratulated me, they asked how I trained. What can I say? When I came back home from the Camp my wife looked at me surprised,�hWhat? Only two bruises. You have more bruises after your regular class�h.  I think this is the best answer. 

On this note, I want to thank my fellow fighters from Vancouver Kyokushin Karate for not going easy on me and for making me sweat a lot. Thank you Sensei Amir, Sempais Michi, Curtis and Kris. Thank you Tsuguo, Tomomi, Greg, Pasha, Peter, Gerald, Will, Ehssan, Jack and many, many others. 

Thank you Sensei Tats for guiding me on the path called Karate Do.  

Special thanks to my first Sensei in Russia Viktor Ushakov and to my first Sensei in Canada Shihan Les Banas.  

In addition, I would like to express my gratitude to all the Senseis and Sempais of IKOK Canada for making every member of the organization feel like a part of a great family. 

Most of all I want to thank Shihans Stuart and Don Corrigal. You are the heart and soul of this organization. We are very lucky to have you as our leaders. 

Sincerely yours in Kyokushin,

Alex Kleschelsky

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