New Students and New Belts

We jut finished our first grading of 2026! We had to split it over two days to accommodate everyone’s schedule. People are so busy nowadays, but I really appreciate they put in the time to join me at the club and train together. This time we had 7 students taking the grading with our first student reaching 6th kyu. Pressure is starting to build for me to get to a level where I can test students to 3rd kyu and above.

It has been really great to see how dedicated people have bene to learning the skills they needed for the test. In March we had classes running until 10pm some nights with student staying on late to train and practice. This is the first test where we explored Go-waza. It is the first step towards learning Jiyu-waza so is very important.

We also have a number of new studdents join us, so the dojo is going to look very colourful once everyone receives their new belts.

To celebrate we went out to our usual spot in downtown Obihiro to enjoy some big glasses beer. The club is growing really well recently, with some minor set backs, but everyone is really kind and welcoming to each other.

It will be good to get back to normal training for a while before we think about what is next on the horizon.

We have a beginners class this month, but I’ve not had any interest so far.