WATANABE SENSEI - MAY 2025

Day 1 - 26/05/2025

First Training Session with Watanabe Sensei!

Tonight’s focus was all about sharp footwork for kumite—learning to move with purpose, create openings, and set up clean attacks. We worked on using feints to draw reactions and create space to score with kizamizuki and gyakuzuki.

We wrapped up with the powerful Kata Sochin, bringing everything together with strength and control.

A solid start to what promises to be a great week of learning. Oss!

Day 2 - 27/05/2025

Today we continued our journey under the guidance of Watanabe Sensei with an intense and focused session. We built on yesterday’s foundations with dynamic kumite drills that sharpened our timing, distancing, and spirit.

The session culminated in practicing Bassai Dai, bringing everything together with power and precision. Each move reminded us of the strength and focus this kata demands.

Grateful for another day of learning and growth!

Day 3 - 28/05/2025

Another tough but rewarding session. We kept the focus on kumite drills, pushing speed, control, and timing.

Finished strong with two kata Heian Sandan and Bassai Sho.

Day 4 - 30/05/2025

Another intense and insightful day of learning!

Today’s focus was all about hip positioning during blocks and strikes within basic combinations—drilling proper form and making sure that precision carries over into kumite.

We also dived deep into timing, speed, and distance in jiyu kumite, emphasizing how crucial it is to read your opponent and control the engagement with sharp movement and awareness.

Day 5 - 31/05/2025

Another intense day focusing on footwork, more kumite drills, and takedowns. The energy and precision demanded are next-level, but every session is making a real difference.

Congratulations to those that were successful in passing their examinations and qualifications:

Shodan

Amelia Bowden (Treharris)

Ant O'Sullivan (Llanbedr DC)

Lee Andrews (Llanbedr DC)

Paul Weston (Llanbedr DC)

Sinead Thomson (MSK)

Instructor/Examiner/Judge

Derek Stockham (JKS Wales) Instructor C, Examiner C, Judge D

Geraint Price (Treharris) Instructor D, Judge D

Matt Stockham (MSK) Examiner C, Judge D

Phil Owen Sensei (Newtown) Instructor D, Examiner D, Judge D

Rhiannon Stockham (MSK) Judge D