10th Amsterdam Gasshuku
May, 28th to 30th 2010
Already the 10th Central Jodo Stage the Netherlands was held, with more participants than ever. Forty people from seven countries joined for training which was held partly in the Shin-ShinBuKen dojo in Amsterdam and partly in a large sports facility in Almere. The increase in the number of participants was reflected by the presence of people from Sweden, the United Kingdom, Germany, Hungary, the Czech Republic, America and of course the Netherlands. Special mention should be made of Slava Gimpelson, who came all the way from Houston, Texas; Anders Lindberg from Umea in Sweden; Mark Taylor and John Leech from the UK; and Matthias Wenderoth and Rolf Kaiser from Germany. Of course Patrick Orth and Jozsef Katona were also present with some of their students, as they have been for the past few years. Such a large and international group made for a great atmosphere and group feeling.
During the stage, Fred Quant was assisted in teaching by Kees Bruggink, giving impressive demonstrations and clear guidance. Training was relaxed yet focused, with everybody learning new techniques or kata. Kata series up to Samidare were practiced while beginners were given special attention. Exams were held for six people, ranging from 5th kyu up to 2nd kyu. All passed and were congratulated by Fred and Kees.
On Sunday, the stage finished and a large lunch was taken together. That people enjoyed themselves is evidenced by the fact that people asked about the date of the next stage!
Jeffrey Schwerzel
Fédération Européenne de Jodo / European Jodo Federation