Welcome to the Lewisham Shotokan Karate Centre

Lewisham, Shotokan Karate Centre and members of other clubs including South London Karate, Oasis and Kilburn, flew to train with JKA Malta.  Having flown into Valetta, the capital, we were warmly greeted by members of JKA Malta, including Sensei Dario Chircop, the Chief Instructor of Malta and made our way to the dojo.  An interesting first lesson focusing on basic double kicking combinations with applicability to kumite, was then followed in the evening to a local restaurant before heading back to the hotel.

The next morning was welcomed by a training session in Golden Bay beach.  The soft sand made light work of the stresses, which enabled techniques to be enhanced without undue pressure on the legs.  Sensei Dario taught the first lesson focusing on application of techniques followed by Sensei Roy teaching the second half with a through understanding of Sochin.  After lunch it was back to the dojo for more combination techniques (including a variation of Kihon kata involving kicking combinations totalling 91 moves).

After this lesson we were treated to a lesson with the Malta Aikido Federation.  A fascinating insight into this complimentary Japanese martial art focusing on wrist-locks and using your opponents weight to your advantage.  The whole class was mesmerised by this insight and thoroughly enjoyed the experience with Sensei Dario complimenting his teaching throughout the weekend by applying a number of aikido moves in demonstrating the bunkai of certain katas.  The evening meal beckoned and after a quick freshen up in the hotel, we headed out to sample more Maltese food (and nightlife!).

A gentler start to the following morning focused on stretching techniques and a through breakdown of Jion.  After a break in the afternoon, the final lesson in the evening concentrated on more stretching techniques followed by a breakdown and understanding of Nijushiho with application by Sensei Roy.  A final meal ended what was a superb weekend.

A huge thanks to JKA Malta, in particular Sensei Dario Chircop, the Chief Instructor and members of the club, Yussef, Aldo, Joseph, Stephen, Michael, Nicholas, Vanessa and Massimo and all the members of JKA Malta for being such hospitable, warm and welcoming hosts.  We thank you greatly.

We eagerly await next years trip!

For further information on JKA Malta please contact Sensei Roy or Sensei Dario on jka@onvol.net

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