New Videos and Updates From Saskatoon 2011

Another great kendo seminar has come and gone. The 2011 Saskatoon Kendo Seminar began with opening remarks from head instructor Murao Sensei 7th dan (Steveston Kendo Club) followed by a very well attended godo keiko where kenshi from across Canada were represented. Saturday’s seminar opened with a short discussion from multiple speakers regarding their experiences and trails in respect to shiai, this was followed by an intense morning of shiai orientated drills. No shiai training session would ever be complete without kakarigeiko and Murao Sensei’s reputation and approach to training made the last half of the morning a gruelling experience for most.

The Prairie Taikai followed the mornings excellent keiko, well stocked with beginners and advanced kenshi all looking to test their kendo. Over the last few years the Prairie Taikai has begun to show consistent signs of being a national level tournament with Team Canada members, prospects and hopefuls in attendance making this tournament an excellent challenge for anyone. The Manitoba Kendo Club placed 2nd loosing the final to Calgary, respectfully. Full results and videos are now available.

Teams-  1st Calgary Kendo Club, 2nd Manitoba Kendo Club.

3dan+ – 1st Kyle Lee(Calgary), 2nd Yuske Yanai(Regina), 3rd David Westhead (Manitoba) 3rd Lance Wall(Saskatoon)

1-2 Dan – 1st Stephen Hladky (Edmonton) 2nd Tim Lee (UofW) 3rd Reuban Gabac (Manitoba)

Womens – 1st Keiko Marumo (Edmonton) 2nd Corie Namba (UofW) 3rd Reuche Gabac (Manitoba) 3rd Flora Chan (Calgary)

Sunday’s grading saw a quiet start with kenshi preparing to challenge their next grade. We would like to congratulate all those successful on their grading, including MKC’s Simon Park on achieving his Ikkyu.

Thank you to Murao Sensei, Asa Sensei, Miyaoka Sensei and Gendzwill Sensei for instructing and organizing this weekends seminar, but most of all thank you for your consistent commitment to kendo across the prairies and across Canada!