In memory of Meibukan founder, YAGI Meitoku (Dai Sensei), NOX hosted its first Gasshukku independent of any Canadian association. It was supported by our friends in Wisconsin in spirit and in body by our friends in London. A gasshukku in Japan is typically an offsite training session used to create bonds of friendship. This gasshukku was a combined bond building and skill development opportunity between our associate clubs.

On March 6th, 20 dedicated martial artist (mostly higher belts) practiced Meibukan’s kaiha kata. They included Tenchi, Seiryu, Byakko, Shujakku, Genbu, Shisochin Sai, Geki Sai 1 Sai, and Saifa Sai. Working out as a group of friends and athletes rather than an association, we stepped out of the traditional norm of a structured hierarchy of rank and trained as equals.

The class was an even mix of Black Belts and Kyu Belts which gave promising new Black Belts an opportunity to experience training at a higher level and for the existing body of Black Belts to keep their skills honed and refined. A discussion on history and philosophy rounded off a very full filling event. We at NOX look forward to next year’s gasshukku which is scheduled to be in London, Ontario.