On the 3rd December Lowestoft Kazoku kai hosted the annual Basho (Xmas Party) plus training seminar with Chief Instructor Derek Ridgeway 7th Dan and senior instructor Tony Bergin 5th Dan at the Lowestoft Sports Centre

The first session was taken with Sensei T Bergin using some of the methods of karate he learned in Japan with Sensei Morio Higaonna 10th Dan.This was a training method called Kakie (push hands) and strengthening, using your opponents strength as a weakness as they push, you pull them off balance then take full advantage using arm locks and strangles. Also the training session contained traditional Wado Ryu Kumate techniques which are unique to this system.

The Second Session was with Sensei D Ridgway who went through the kata Rohi Sandan (Shito Ryu) and its bunki (application). This was a very enjoyable session and all who took part had their eyes opened to the many ways to apply the bunki.

After the karate training there was a grading for students that were eligible. All that took part past with good grades: Michelle Layman 7th Kyu, Adie Buck 3rd Kyu of the Lowestoft Kazoku Kai, Andy Horton 1st Kyu - Sheffield Kazoku Kai, Chris Spruce 1st Kyu and Ryan Gowen Junior Black Belt- Wolverhampton Kazoku Kai .

The Basho was held at the Suffolk Punch for over 70 people. The guests really enjoyed the evening's entertainment with Lowestoft's top band "New World Service" who kept them on the dance floor all night with the band playing all the usual favourites from the Jam, U2 , Rem, the Killers to name but a few.

During the break the presentation was held for the people who passed their Dan Grades at the summer seminar held at Pontesbury.

This year's student of the year for Lowestoft Kazoku went to Adie Buck for his dedication, commitment and his continuous improvement in karate. Junior Student of the year went to Jade Reeve, who continues to improve after passing her black belt in the summer time and for winning all of the karate competitions she entered in the eastern area, to become the eastern champion 2011.

Senior Students of the year were Graham Buckley and John Felps from Fakenham Kazoku Kai for their continuous service to Kazoku Kai. A special award went to Kantu Patel of the Beccles Shukokai for his support and dedication to karate, sensei Bergin said " I would like to thank you and your club for you your tremendous support and friendship over the last decade".

The club will be reinstating its training at the new Waveney sports centre at the start of the new year on Thurs evenings 6.30 to 8.30. As well as continuing its Tuesday training sessions at the Grove primary school juniors 6.00 to 7.00 and adults 7.00 to 8.00.

Anybody interested in starting karate for the new year for fitness, self defence and confidence building are very welcome to contact Sensei T Bergin on 01502 565839.

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