The Sobukan 5th anniversary celebration and grading tests are only one month away, over the weekend of 1st – 2nd October!
I would like to welcome a number of new students on board and also farewell Raghu, who has moved back to India. You are all like family members (hence the term ‘Sobuclan’) to me and it is always sad when someone moves away or circumstance otherwise prevents them from continuing training. Raghu has been a loyal and enthusiastic Sobukan member since December 2011. He came to me with no martial arts experience and is now one of our most technical martial artists. In these four and a half years he has competed in a number of full-contact tournaments, participated in many expos and demonstration events and barely missed a Sobukan event. He was the first SA resident to compete and receive a grade in Kudo. I for one will miss Raghu very much and wish him all the best in India.
5th anniversary
Sobukan turns five in September! Our dojo is now older than some of its members!
On Saturday 1st October from about 5pm, please congregate at the dojo for a celebration party, with family friendly martial arts movies, games, sushi, pizza and drinks. Please bring your own drinks, and some snack to share would be appreciated. If you have any games that you think might be interesting, please also bring them along. I can bring a poker set, and Pictionary – does anyone have Twister?
https://www.facebook.com/events/822900047815391/
Grading
The adults grading will be held from 10am Saturday 1 October.
Sobukids will test the following day, from 10am on Sunday 2 October.
As per normal, we will start with yellow belt tests and progress through the ranks. All advanced grades are required to participate in the entire grading, and demonstrate improved proficiency in previous belt levels. Particularly for first timers, by all means strive for perfection, but the pass mark is 80%. If you do not achieve 80% on the first try, you will be given feedback and an opportunity to finish your grading at a later date when you have had a chance to practice.
Please note that a $25 grading fee is payable in advance.
Competition
Some members are training for a BJJ competition on November 12, so we are currently polishing up on our grappling.
Consequently we will delay a Kudo SA tournament until early 2017. Before organising, I want to ensure that we have a few athletes ready. If you are interested in competition, show your dedication to training now! A lot of work goes into organisation, so volunteers are very welcome!
I am also looking into options for children and adults to compete locally in Karate or cross-discipline tournaments. Unfortunately, quality karate competitions for children in SA are few and far between, but I will keep looking!
Important dates
Sobukan Dojo 