The combined Region 9 and Region 23 Senior Classes were treated to a very informative session by Shihan Stacey Karetsian last Thursday night. Held in the Main hall at Seacombe High School (R23 Senior Class Venue), the approx 70 Instructors and Students present were led through a near 3 hour session by Shihan. The session started with a simple combination, stepping through first with Jodan Age Uke in Sanchin Dachi, then Chudan Uchi Uke in Zenkutsu Dachi, followed by Gedan Barrai in 45 degree Shiko Dachi. The Gedan Barrai required was that found in Kata Seiunchin/Sepei, rather than the normal Basics version. Shihan worked the class up and down quite a few times before breaking off and gathering all around to explain the correct way to engage and execute the blocks. He particularly emphasised the mechanics of the Chudan Uchi Uke block, with the correct point of contact being when the arms are each on a 45 degree angle, forming a cross, to enable maximum strength in the block. The group broke off into pairs to practise the block for some time.
The next gathering was to emphasise the importance of the elbows being tucked in to also maximise the mechanical advantage of the strength of the block. Sensei Joe was the willing, and at times not so willing partner of Shihan during demonstration of the application of wrist locks associated with the block. A third explanation session was followed by more practical partner work in using wrist locks to break holds and counter attack.
The students then broke up into four kata groups - Sensei Joe with Saifa, Sensei Daniel with Seiunchin, Sensei James with Kanku-dai and Hangetsu, while Shihan took the senior Black Belts through Kanku-sho in the Studio hall. Shihan's group also spent about half an hour free sparring, without protective equipment which made for extra care. The highlight of this session was watching Robin Copini spar with Shihan, which at time seemed to be more Greco-roman wresting rather than traditional sparring. The spectators watching this group enjoyed it as much as the participants.
Following the Bow-out, Sensei Joe presented Certificates, and Sempei Belts where appropriate, to the graduates of the recent Region 9 STP course, while Sensei James and the R23 full time group had a photo opportunity with Shihan. Congratulations to all successful students. It was a most informative session by Shihan and greatly appreciated by all present.
