Michael Barr (IJKA England) returns to New Zealand

Once again Michael Barr (4th Dan) from IJKA England came to New Zealand to study Asai-ha Shotokan-ryu karate-do with me. Michael trained intensively last year, and returned again to repeat this from across the world. More than returning it was clear that Michael’s karate has improved immensely, along with his knowledge of Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei’s Karate, so needless to say, I was very pleased!

This meant I could readily share some more in-depth principles of Asai Karate through “the database”—the IJKA Shotokan kata. We literally covered the form and complete oyo (applications) for Kanku-dai, Kashu (Hi no te), Seiryu, and Unsu as taught to me by Asai Sensei. A special thanks to Brendon Wells (1st Dan) who also trained and paired up with Michael for the bunkai/oyo-jutsu. Michael completed the 10 hours of training at the IJKA New Zealand Seminars and did many private lessons (averaging to practice for three hours every day). Because of his efforts and reigi-saho he will return to the United Kingdom with a treasure trove of knowledge.
Outside of the dojo Mizuho and I were delighted to spend social time with Michael and his wife Natalie. Domo arigato gozaimashita.

© André Bertel. Christchurch, New Zealand (2011).