International Hombu
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International Hombu on Okinawa


This is a message to all Goju people worldwide. If you want to learn Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate-do, then your best option is to visit Okinawa, and particularly the International Hombu of the IOGKF.

Higaonna Sensei provides so much more than just a positive training environment. Along with access to all the traditional training, comes philosophy, history and cultural perspective.

2006 was another fantastic opportunity for those able to make the journey to the birthplace of Karate. This was my sixth trip, and each time I feel like I'm not only learning more, but also appreciating the intrinsic value of this art we are fortunate to study.

 
Quiet Hombu

With Hombu usually being such a hive of activity, this early morning picture is a bit of a rarity. There is a promise of sweat; potential for growth and even a hint of apprehension.

Such a simple building, with so many complex emotions.
The next generation

As my 30 year anniversary of Karate training nears, I am starting to appreciate the need to pass on the benefits of training in the Way to the next generation.

For those children fortunate enough to train at Hombu, they not only have access to the best instruction, but also to a way of life that makes Karate training a perfectly normal activity. A scenario far removed from what most experience.

(Kurumoto Sensei leads some of the Brown and Black belts through Kata.)
Grading

Grading at any time is a wonderful, if somewhat stressful, activity. Grading on Okinawa in front of Higaonna Sensei is something very special indeed.

I am more fortunate than most, also having Bakkies Laubscher Sensei on the panel. I've seen him sitting across that table for grading after grading for many years, and his presence is a positive and reassuring one.

This year the panel was missing one vital figure that I feel deserves special mention. Leon Pantanowitz Sensei passed away recently, and he is missed. His larger-than-life character left many of us looking for him, even though we knew he had gone ahead.