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Q - Why Did you start Aikido?
A-
I practised Judo from the age of 11 to 13 and then Shotokan Karate
from the age of 20 to 21. I did not like the competition side of either
art as they relied on strength and speed. A friend (Roy Barnes) suggested
I should try Aikido and it immediately fell into place as the martial art
for me. Martial arts have always been part of my thinking process but
Aikido also links in nicely to my spiritual side.
Q - Memories of your first
lesson?
A
- Ukemi I was so pleased that the ukemi was similar to Judo that I
felt right at home performing mei ukemi. I also felt horrible being called
a NOVICE !!! so I was eager to practise at the other classes to get
a chance at taking my first grade.
Q-
Favourite Technique?
A - Tenkan Ikkyo from Yokomen Uchi Its a beautiful use
of most Taisabaki movements coupled together with a high level of Harmony
with your Uke
Q - Least
favourite Technique?
A
- Koshinage specifically because I am tall and most people are
therefore shorter than me. I have to be very focussed (more than usual) on
being in the correct posture at the correct height during application of
the technique.
Q -
Favourite Summer School and Why
A - 1992 - This was the year that Doshu (then
Waka Sensei) presented a seminar for the UKA. His purity of basic
technique was amazing to watch. The thing that stuck out the most was that
he was not trying to impress anyone with complicated interpretations of
techniques. It was like a breath of fresh air.
Q - Anything else?
A
- I am particularly interested in promoting the basics
that Mr. Smith was so keen on and have decided to dedicate my
Aikido to perpetuating this direction for the UKA. This I see as
being very important as everyone has their own view, experience and
interpretation on technique relative to their own psychological and
physical condition - not to mention influences from their instructor/s
over the years. My interest beyond the basics is therefore being able to
explain to students the process that led a higher grade to the
understanding they have and teach on technique so that the link between
basics and higher grade practice is not broken or missed out. I find this
most interesting as it does not rule out any reasonable interpretation as
long as there is explanation on its existence. | 
