Spirited defence
Well done to everyone who passed their gradings with weekend at the Phoenix Aikido Club. The standard this time was very high; the 4th Kyu (orange belt) gradings in particular were very impressive. Not only did everyone perform the techniques to a high standard, there was also a really good, positive spirit that is really nice to see. Well done to John from Sensei Costigans Stratford dojo for a really superb grading - and to his Uke Paul, for taking about six Koshinage (hip throws) - and to my Mum’s husband John, who also performed extremely well (he even got an honourable mention from Sensei Moss).
There were only two disappointments; two of the guys going for 1st Kyu (brown belt) weren’t really ready. They’ll be fine next time though, and will still be eligible to take their Dan Grade in 2008.