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Q - Why Did you start Aikido?
A-
Originally
I sat and read a book while my daughter
practiced, but after four weeks of sitting
on a P.E. bench, I thought it would be more
comfortable on the mat. Plus the fact that I
was constantly being invited to take part
and was very impressed by the friendly
attitude of all present.
Q -
Memories of your first lesson?
A -
Having
practiced judo for some time, I was quite
proficient with ukemi, and possibly gave the
impression that I knew more than I really
did. My partner said “Now tenkan, tenkan”.
To which I replied, ” Sorry, I haven’t a
clue what you are talking about”
Q-
Favourite Technique?
A -
I think irimi
nage. The variations enable one to be
effective even if “wrong footed”.
Q - Least
favourite Technique?
A -
Koshi nage
.Alright when I was younger and stronger,
but now the legs are going, I find that I’m
too tall to lower my posture sufficiently!
Q -
Favourite Summer School and Why
A - Bridgnorth,
I gained Shodan and my first encounter with
Chiba Sensei, who proved to be far more
human than his followers had made him out to
be.
Q -
Anything else?
A - Not
really. I’ve never been able to indulge
myself in the spirituality of Aikido,
although there is of course far more to it
than physical effort, and I do get a little
frustrated with people who confuse Aikido
and self-defence.
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