19TH TO 25TH OF JULY 2004

SUMMER 2000

WINTER 2000*

NEWS 2001*

SUMMER 2002*

SUMMER 2004

*NOT FINNISHED

INTERNATIONAL GASHUKU IN HUNGARY

The Hungarian International Gashuku was just what I expected. The training schedule was very comprehensive and varied, including such essential elements as Kata, application, technique combinations and Randori. I found this 15th anniversary a fantastic opportunity to train not only in another foreign country, but also amidst such a diverse collection of nations. Representatives from Hungary, Israel, Australia, South Africa, Belgium, Wales and England were all present. It was the influence of such a mixture of nationalities and interpretations that brought such diversity to the training. Although we are all students of Karate, every individual has a unique way of expressing the 'art', thus was able to share a wealth of knowledge with fellow colleagues. 

The instruction was of an excellent standard, and I very much enjoyed acquainting myself with my international seniors and peers alike. Towards the end of the week, part of the afternoon training session was devoted to grading. I thought that the performance of all those involved was superb. I was particularly impressed by the individual interpretations of the Kata. It was apparent that while a variety in speed and intensity was evident, the group still moved with a fluidity that expressed individual self-awareness and the awareness of surrounding practitioners. It was also interesting to see the senior interpretation of Kata that I myself practice, such as Geksai Dai Ichi and Geksai Dai Ni. It's fascinating to witness the gradual progression throughout the grades in the demonstration of a particular sequence. I myself at third level white belt still perform these Kata at a basic level. In viewing these formations practised by senior levels it was incredible to see the difference in both their physiological movements and their psychological projections throughout the display. High concentration levels and energy flow were present in every move. 

Neither myself, nor my colleagues from the United Kingdom had prepared for the public demonstration prior to the commence of Gashuku. We thus decided to keep our performance 'short but sweet', incorporating an 'opening & closing' flower design into our basic Kata, 'Heian'. This worked well as all grades involved shared an equal role in the formation. Several hours before the event's opening on Saturday, all nationality groups were able to practice on the stage of the theatre. This allowed time to familiarise ourselves with the new surroundings as well as giving us the opportunity to view the performance of our international colleagues. I really enjoyed this as all the demonstrations were so varied, containing aspects of martial arts such as Karate Kata, application, weapons and Tai Chi. The accompanying music created a complimentary atmosphere and the fluid motion of the performances was fantastic. It was also really great to see the presentation of newly acquired grades at the end of the evening. An experience that surely honoured all those involved. 

I really enjoyed my time training in Hungary. Throughout the week I learnt many new techniques and skills. It was also fantastic to have the opportunity to make friends with practitioners from across the globe. The more experience I have training amongst different cultures and nationalities, it becomes more apparent how valuable it is to belong to the Kushido 'family'. Throughout the last couple of years I have discovered that training is not just for self-defence and technique development, however important these aspects are. Fundamentally it is an essential asset to strengthening the foundations of both our physical and psychological frameworks. Practising karate, combining aspects of both 'martial' and the 'arts' allows us as individuals to improve in all elements of our lives. Despite certain differences regarding technique and function that can bee seen cross-culturally, we are all directed at the same goal...bettering ourselves as individuals in both physical and psychological terms, allowing for more self-awareness and consideration as well as understanding for those around us. As the ideology of Budo suggests, a true warrior knows no war. This brings to light a saying that applies to every technique, 'equal and opposite'. While in the case of technique this saying applies to the physical, on a more philosophical note, the Budo ideology is reflected. We train to become warriors, yet simultaneously the goal of our training is for inner peace. Through this internalisation of harmony, hopefully we can project positive vibes into the external environment, leading to a more fulfilling existence. During the Gashuku, several discussions with Kancho Rony were held. The depth and insight into the philosophy of Budo and the way of the warrior were an invaluable asset to our daily training. 

The beauty of Gashuku is that it allows the practitioner the opportunity to escape from the pressures of every day life, leaving him/her free to concentrate on all aspects of the 'art' on so many different levels. I definitely plan on returning to Budapest in the not too distant future. Even after a long week of training, the quality and variety of the instruction left me 'Hungary' for more. 

Marc Wilkinson
To see photos of this gashuku click here.