Ken Bu Kan Fermoy Karate Club

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2011-08-31T22:35:00.001+01:00

Home - International Japan Karate Association (IJKA) - Ireland
RECENTLY ADDED PHOTO'S

Kombatan Instructors Class

2011-08-22T15:59:00.006+01:00

Last Sunday sensei Brian Toomey and senior club members who hold a Lakan status ( Blackbelt ) in Kombatan travelled to Grangecross Budo Centre in Ovens to attend an instructors class. The event was a great success with students travelling from Dublin, Waterford and Wexford to watch and train with the master. The course dealt with use of basic and advanced self defence techniques against both armed and unarmed aggression, Jess is a wonderful instructor and made it all look so easy. We would like to thank him for his hospitality on the day which as always was second to none,salamat. Fermoy Karate Club holds a Kombatan class on every third Tuesday of each month and you are welcome to come along and check it out.
Congratulations to Callum Murphy on passing his recent grading examination with a fantastic performance earning him a well deserved 7th kyu.
Training times are as follows : Junior Beginners 7pm on Thursday, Advanced Beginners, and older children 8pm Tuesday and Thursday, Senior All Grades 9pm Tuesday and Thursday. A special advanced kata class is held each Sunday at 11am. All classes are held in our dojo which is located on the Mallow Road next to the Texaco filling station.
Fermoy Karate Club is an inclusive sports club in that we welcome students with mobility issues or special needs, karate is a wonderful sport that is open to all. If you have any queries or for further information contact Brian on 0872500783.
Keep practising, until next week osu.

Tetsuhiko Asai

2011-08-10T13:42:00.002+01:00

Monday night at 8:00 we will be holding a memorial class dedicated to Tetsuhiko Asai

Tetsuhiko Asai
Born June 7, 1935
Ehime Prefecture, Japan
Died August 15, 2006 (aged 71)
Japan
Liver cancer
Style Shotokan Karate
Teacher(s) Gichin Funakoshi, Masatoshi Nakayama, Teruyuki Okazaki
Rank 10th dan karate (JKS)
Spouse Keiko Asai
Children Hoshimi Asai
Notable students Kenneth Funakoshi, Andre Bertel, Kousaku Yokota
Website http://www.jks.jp/

Sensei Brian Toomey Oversea's

2011-07-24T01:50:00.004+01:00

Video courtesy of Satori Club - IJKA Crimea - Ukraine.

Summer Training Camp Great Success

2011-07-08T12:18:00.003+01:00

Dungarvan Karate Club held its annual summer training camp at Clonea Strand Co. Waterford on June 25th and 26th last and we are delighted to report that the event was a great success with the numbers well up on last year. Clubs from all over the country were well represented and it was fantastic to see alot of new faces in addition to our regular stallwarts. We were blessed with the weather and were able to hold all the sessions on the beach. I.J.K.A. world chief instructor kancho S.Kato 9th Dan hosted the event and the great master once again enthralled all present with his skill and devotion to the sport. Congratulations to Ross Daly and Joe Hunter who received their 3rd and 4th dan blackbelts, well done lads.Thanks to all who travelled to the camp and to everybody who helped to make it such a great success.
Sensei Jess Pablo held a Kombatan class in the club dojo last week and was very impressed by the standard being reached by our senior members, the next class will be on Tuesday July 19th at 9pm.
On Saturday next July 9th Fermoy Karate Club will be sending representatives to a special Sports Ability Day which is being held at The Cork Institute of Technology from 12pm to 3pm. This event allows people with special needs to try out various sports and improve their existing skills.
We would like to remind parents that the club will remain open over the school holidays and training times are as follows : junior beginners 7pm on Thursday, juniors all grades 8pm Tuesday and Thursday, seniors all grades 9pm Tuesday and Thursday. An advanced kata class is held at 11am on Sunday. All classes take place in our dojo which is located on the Mallow road next to the Texaco filling station. New members always welcome.
Until next week osu.

Pic: Ross Daly and Joe Hunter pictured with Shihan S. Kato, 9th Dan IJKA world chief instructor and Sensei Brian Toomey 6th dan after receiving their 3rd and 4th dan at the Summer Camp in Clonea.

Shubukan Karate Club grading examination

2011-05-30T15:48:00.002+01:00

Pic:- Sensei Brian Toomey pictured with Fermoy Karate Club's Kevin McCarthy and Louise O'Dea from the Shubukan Karate Club Dungarvan after a recent wheelchair class at the Cope Foundation in Montenotte Cork.

Sensei Brian Toomey and some senior members from Fermoy Karate Club travelled to The Shubukan Karate Club in Dungarvan last Wednesday evening for a training session followed by a grading examination. We are delighted to report that all who presented themselves for the grading examination passed and sensei Ciaran O' Dea can be proud of the high standard his students have achieved over the past few months. It was particularly gratifying to see two of Ciaran's special needs pupils obtaining their 12th kyu ( white belt ) and judging by their performance on the night it will be the first of many belts they will receive. Fermoy Karate Cub was the first in Ireland to become an all inclusive club in that we provide training and membership to people who have mobility problems or special needs requirements and it is wonderful to see sensei Ciaran following this path. Well done to all.

A special thanks to senseis Sean O'Donnell and Ross Daly who will be hosting all classes this week, and to our new members who started last week we extend a warm welcome.
On Thursday June 9th we hope to hold a senior grading examination after training ...... so keep practicing your katas!
As mentioned last week parents please note that the club does not close over the summer holiday period and training times are as follows:
Junior beginners 7pm on Thursday, advanced juniors 8pm Tuesday & Thursday and adults all grades 9pm Tuesday & Thursday. A special advaced kata class is held on Sunday at 11am.
New members welcome come along and check us out your first lesson is FREE. For further details or information call Brian 0872500783.
Until next week osu.

large turnout at all classes last week

2011-05-24T15:41:00.003+01:00

We were delighted with the large turnout at all classes last week particularly the junior beginners with well over twenty students at the early session. Sensei Stacey Kelly travelled from Tuam to join us for the senior class which she co-hosted while sensei Brian Toomey instructed our new members. Last Saturday John McCarthy and Jim Condon held a special training programme at the Cope Foundation in Montenotte Cork for our wheelchair and special needs members. As always it was a pleasure to train with these special people.
Sunday we held an advanced class in the dojo where sensei Brian instructed us on kata Gankaku, a special thanks to senseis P.J., Mick, Ross, and all who were present.
Best wishes to sensei Ciaran O'Dea and the Shubukan Karate Club in Dungarvan whose members will be grading this week.
A reminder that we will be holding our annual summer training seminar on June 25th and 26th next at Clonea Strand Dungarvan presented by I.J.K.A. international chief instructor shihan S. Kato 9th dan.Further details will be posted on the Avondhu nearer to the event.

Finally we would like to welcome all our new members to the club.Training is at the usual times and note that the club will remain open all over the summer. Keep practicing and until next week osu.

senior members were awarded blackbelts in Presas Style Kombatan

2011-05-19T13:31:00.005+01:00

Fermoy Karate Club was honoured this week by the International Philippine Martial Arts Federation when a number of our senior members were awarded blackbelts in Presas Style Kombatan. Unlike in many Asian martial arts, students of Kombatan learn first to use weapons and defend themselves against them. When the student learns to defend him/herself against a weapon, it is easier to learn to defend oneself against an unarmed opponent. Kombatan classes are held in our dojo on every third Tuesday of month, our next class will be on June 21st. Congratulations to all well done.
Thanks to sensei Sean O' Donnell who hosted last Thursday's junior and senior classes. Training is at the usual times with an advanced kata class on Sunday at 11am.
Until next week osu.

Local clubs excel at championships

2011-05-03T00:39:00.005+01:00

pic 1:- The Wheelchair and special category champions Valerie, Dale, Sean Og and Podge, pictured with senseis Jackie O' Shea, Brian Toomey, David O' Donovan and P.J, Moloney.

pic 2:- Fermoy's Kieran Buckley preparing himself for the junior kumite competition which saw him winning the silver medal for a fantastic performance.

Last Sunday Fermoy Karate Club in association with the IJKA hosted the Irish Open Shotokan and Irish Wheelchair Championships 2011 at the Loreto Sports Complex in Fermoy. Shotokan clubs from all over the country were well represented and did themselves proud. It was great to see competitors from as far away as Italy as was our near neighbours from Kildorrery, to all visiting clubs and their supporters we thank you osu.
The standard among all the contestants was very high and is a testimony to the dedication of their senseis.
Congratulations to sensei Eddie O' Donnell, Mitchelstown Karate Club who took gold in the men's senior kata, and to sensei Martin Sheehan, Kildorrery Karate Club who got first place in the men's senior kumite competition. The senior team kumite gold went to Fermoy, well done senseis Joe, Rory and Ross while the senior team kata was won by our Italian friends. Fermoy's Mariusz Borowski took bronze in the kumite competition, and Kieran Buckley got the silver medal in the junior kumite. Well done to sensei Stacey Kelly and her club who brought medals back to Galway and to sensei Jackie O' Shea who took the gold in the senior ladies kata. The list is endless congrats to all.
The wheelchair and special categories were a joy to watch and all the contestants received a tremendous reception from their fellow karatekas and spectators.The determination and love of the sport portrayed by these very special people is second to none. To Podge, Valerie, Dale and Sean Og congratulations.
During the interval we were treated to a special demonstration in the art of Kombatan by sensei Jess Pablo and members of his club,this was a thoroughly enjoyable experience watching the master at his very best, "salamat sa inyo"
Karate is a wonderful sport that is open to everyone regardless of age, experience or fitness level, a sport where you will always make the team and be respected. The quality and dedication of our up-coming karatekas which was so evident this week-end is ensuring a very bright future for our sport.
Thank you ............. Loreto Sports Complex and Patsy O'Flynn, Red Cross, judges and referees, all participating clubs,spectators, parents and all who gave up their time to make this event a great success.
Training is at the usual times and new members always welcome.
Until next week osu.

Irish Open Shotokan Championships 2011

2011-04-27T00:25:00.004+01:00

Pic:- Podge Deehan at last years Irish Open competing in the kata event.

The IJKA is pleased to announce that Fermoy Karate Club will be hosting the Irish Open Shotokan Championships and the Irish Wheelchair Championships 2011 on Sunday next May 1st at the Loreto Sports Complex in Fermoy. The event will get underway with the juniors at 11am competing in the kata and kumite disciplines followed by the seniors at 1pm. We hope to begin the wheelchair competitions at about 2pm. This is a fantastic opportunity to see the best karatekas in the country displaying their skills. Admission fee on the day for public spectators is €10 for adults and children are free. For further information contact Brian 087 2500783.
The club would like to congratulate Kenneth Ahearne on receiving his first dan blackbelt in Kaizendo fitness.
A special thanks to sensei Ross Daly for taking the senior class training programme last Thursday evening.
Training is at the usual times. Until next week osu.

Cork Indoor Sports Personality Awards

2011-04-21T14:08:00.002+01:00

Pictured at last Friday's Award Ceremony are Valerie Canning, John McCarthy, Cllr.Lorraine Kingston Deputy Lord Mayor of Cork, Podge Deehan award winner, Brian Toomey, Kevin McCarthy and Jim Condon.

Last Friday evening Fermoy Karate Club member Podge Deehan received an award from The Cork Indoor Sports Personality Awards which was held at The Gresham Metropole Hotel in recognition for his contribution to the sport. An award of this magnitude is a fantastic achievement at the best of times but for Podge and the club it is really special as he is confined to a wheelchair. Podge is an inspiration to all around him and his dedication to the sport is second to none.
On Tuesday evening sensei Jesi Pablo held a Kombatan class in the dojo which was well attended on the night, he congratulated the members who completed his recent seminar and attained the grade of Lakan1 blackbelt. The next class will be held on Tuesday May 17th next.
Fermoy Karate Club is pleased to announce that it will host the Irish Open Shotokan Championships and the Irish Wheelchair Karate Championships 2011 on Sunday May 1st next at the Loreto Sports Complex in Fermoy. Further details of this event will be submitted on next weeks edition of The Avondhu.
A special thanks to sensei Sean O'Donnell who hosted all our classes this week.
Training is at the usual times.
Until nest week. Osu.

Kombatan training on Tuesday next

2011-04-14T13:38:00.004+01:00

On next Tuesday evening we had our a kombatan training class in the dojo for senior members at 9pm ...don't forget your bastons. Kombatan is a Filipino martial art discipline which differs from most in that it firstly teaches the student how to use and defend against weapons before using the open hand or weapon free attack or defence methods. Kombatan is based on self-defence techniques and their practicality, and weapons are used only as an extension of the hand.The club holds a class on every 3rd Tuesday of the month and you are welcome to come along and check it out.
A special thanks to sensei Ciaran O'Dea who hosted the wheelchair class last Saturday morning at The Cope Foundation in Montenotte, Cork.
On Friday April 15th Podge Deehan will be receiving a special award at 49th Annual Dinner Dance of the Cork Indoor Sports Association which is being held in The Gresham Metropole Hotel. Podge who is confined to a wheelchair is an excellent ambassador for karate and is an inspiration to all with his determination and positive outlook.
Training is at the usual times and new members are always welcome. Until next week osu.

picture :- Podge Deehan performing his winning kata at last year's Wheelchair Karate Championships.

Club honours World Champion

2011-04-06T19:25:00.005+01:00

Last Thursday evening sensei Ross Daly was named Club Person Of The Year in recognition for his achievement in Turin last year taking gold in the men's senior kumite. Ross was presented with the Padraig Houlihan Memorial Perpetual Trophy by Padraig's father John.We had a great turnout which is a testimony to Ross' popularity in the club. Well done Ross and we are sure this will be first of many titles you will achieve.

On Sunday some of our senior members travelled with sensei Brian Toomey and sensei Ciaran O' Dean to Ovens for a Kombatan seminar hosted by Master Jesi Pablo at the Grangecross Budo Centre. The course itself while being quite intensive was made to look easy by Jesi whose skills and expertise are second to none in this martial arts discipline. Every aspect of this style including weapon training,empty hand and police combatitive tactics were masterfully covered by Jesi. All participnts successfully completed this course and received an International Philippines Martial Arts Federation certificate in Kombatan Presas Style and are registered as official members ( lakan 1) with the IPMAF. A special thanks to Jesi's wife Margaret for her hospitality on the day

top pic-:Master Jesi Pablo 3rd from the left pictured with senseis Brian and Ciaran, and club members at last Sunday's Kombatan Seminar.

bottom pic-:Sensei Ross Daly being congratulated by John Houlihan having received the Padraig Houlihan Memorial Club Person Of The Year perpetual trophy.

St Patricks Day Parade

2011-03-16T16:11:00.002Z

For our junior members who don't know the St Patricks Day Parade will start at 11:00 a.m. outside Cavanagh's Garage, Cork Road and finishes on Patrick Street, Fermoy, a distance of about 1.5 km.Please be there for 10:45 so as we can get organized.

Walking time is about 30 minutes.

The parade takes an hour and a half-ish.

kombatan class

2011-03-16T15:33:00.005Z

Once again we had an extremely energetic class thanks to Kombatan Instructor Jesi Pablo who holds the rank of Lakan Anim (6th Dan).
as well as our usual students we were joined by Ciaran O'Dea of the shu bu kan karate club in dungarvan.

Pictured - Sensei Jesi Pablo (6th Dan).

first grading of 2011 and spring seminar

2011-03-14T22:00:00.003Z

Last Thursday evening we held our first grading of 2011 and we are delighted to report that all the students passed. In all we had over thirty students across all age groups and grades who achieved their kyu.The standard among all the students was second to none and is a testimony to the commitment and excellence of sensei Brian Toomey. A special thanks to Mike Hennessy who helped out and tutored students on the evening. Well done to all and keep practising.
Sensei S. Kato 9th dan I.J.K.A. international chief instructor hosted our annual spring seminar over the week-end with the assistance of sensei Milena Galabova 3rd dan, and it proved to be a resounding success.On Saturday we travelled with sensei Kato to the Cope Foundation in Montenotte, Cork where he presided over a special wheelchair class.This was a very special and indeed heart warming event and was thoroughly enjoyed by all present. Later that evening the venue was the Adair hall, Fermoy where the great master put everybody through their paces for three hours. We all left enlightened and tired but eager to return on Sunday.
We kicked off at 10.30am on Sunday with a special instructors class followed by an all grades class which included children, who were left in awe by the special treatment and one to one instruction they received from senseis Kato and Galabova. Finally the course concluded with a black belt grading and well done to Ben who received his 2nd dan. Osu.
Thanks to everybody who travelled to the event and to the parents of our juniors, the Adair hall committee, and all who helped us to make this a memorable and successful event.
Until next week osu.

Courtesy of Jim Condon.

2011 Spring Seminar

2011-02-12T16:37:00.002Z

International Japan Karate Association Ireland

Presents 2011 Spring Seminar

IJKA World Chief Instructor

Shihan S. Kato (9^th Dan)

March 12^th and 13^th. 2011

Adair Hall, Fermoy,Co. Cork.

Saturday:	Wheelchair Class	In Cope Centre Montonoty Cork
	All Grades	11:00am – 12:00 Noon
	All Grades	In Fermoy 2:00pm – 5:00pm
Sunday:	Instructors Class	10:30am – 11:30am
Sunday:	All Grades	11:30 – 1:00pm
	Dan Grading	1pm

Prices:
	1 Class	2 Classes	Weekend
Seniors	€25	€50	€70
Juniors	€15	€25	€35

For further information on the course or accommodation contact: Brian,00353872500783

kombatan class

2011-02-09T14:47:00.002Z

Next Tuesday evening Feb.15th sensei Jess Pablo will host a kombatan class ( Filipino stick fighting ) in the dojo at 9pm ............ don't forget your sticks!
Next month sees the return of shihan S. Kato 9th dan who is the IJKA international chief instructor for a special Spring training seminar. More details of this event will be posted in next weeks edition of the Avondhu.
Weekly training times are as follows : junior beginners 7pm on Thursdays, advanced juniors all grades 8pm Tuesday and Thursday, adults all grades 9pm Tuesday and Thursday, an advanced kata class is held each Sunday at 11am. All classes are held in our dojo which is located on Mallow road next to the Texaco Service Station. New members always welcome come along and check us out ....... your first lesson is free. For further information contact Brian on 087 2500783.
Until next week osu.

The Cork Sports Partnership Awards

2011-02-09T14:18:00.004Z

Last weekend saw another milestone in the history of Fermoy Karate Club when we received three certificates in recognition for achievements from The Cork Sports Partnership Awards Scheme in association with The Irish Sports Council at a ceremony held in the County Hall Cork. These certificates were presented to Brian Toomey who was nominated under the Disabilities Volunteer category, Valerie Canning for Disabilities Sports Person,and Jim Condon who collected a certificate on behalf of the club for the Sports Club nomination.Thanks to John and Kevin McCarthy who were part of the delegation representing the club last Friday night.

Fermoy Karate Club is Ireland's first inclusive karate club (we train and help people with disabilities and extra needs to develop a fuller life through the study and practice of karate) and it is with great pride that we accepted these certificates.It is an inspiration to see the dedication and commitment these special people have and it is an honour to be associated with them.
On Sunday last we held an advanced kata class which was very well attended, thanks to senseis Stacey Kelly, Jess Pablo, and Ross Daly who traveled from Galway and Cork to be with us, and of course our local members who made it a great day.
Until next week osu.

Picture: Sensei Brian Toomey, Jim Condon, Valerie Canning, Michael Crowley representing The Cork Sports Partnership Awards Scheme, Kevin McCarthy, John McCarthy pictured at last Fridays awards ceremon.

Fermoy Karate Club

2011-02-09T13:41:00.001Z

The club is enjoying a large membership across all age groups and is turning out a constant high standard of excellence among its pupils. A special thanks to the parents of our junior members who present their children for training each week. We would like to welcome the new members who have started over the past few weeks.
To sensei Jess Pablo we extend our sympathy on the passing of Grand Master Ernesto A. Presas Sr. father and founder of the modern day Filipino Warrior.
Until next week Osu.

Picture: Sensei Brian Toomey pictured with a group which included Sean & Neil Sargent founder members of the club at a Kato training seminar held back in the early 1980s

Grading Examination

2010-10-15T12:40:00.001+01:00

Last Thursday evening the club held a grading examination for our advanced junior members and we are delighted to report that all the students passed. The standard among the group was very high and clearly shows the dedication and committment they have to the club.
A special thank you their parents who present them for training each week.
We wish to correct an error which we posted on last weeks Avondhu in relation to training times for junior beginners it should have read 7pm every Thursday instead of 7pm Tuesday.
Apologies for any inconvenience caused. Osu.

Pic.1
Junior club members pictured with sensei Brian Toomey having passed their grading Examination last Thursday.Well done to all.Osu.

Pic.2
Sensei Brian Toomey 6th dan pictured with International Chief Instructor Shinan S.Kato 9th dan at The European Championships in Hungary.

Advanced kata training session

2010-10-15T12:16:00.003+01:00

The club would like to thank everybody who showed up for last Sunday's advanced kata training session. It is a testimony to sensei Brian Toomey and Fermoy Karate club to see members from other IJKA clubs traveling great distances to participate in this event.
We would like to remind members that a Kombatan training class will be held in the dojo on Tue. Oct.19th hosted by sensei Jesi Pablo ............ don't forget your sticks.
Shihan S. Kato will be holding an Autumn Training Seminar in Milltown Co.Galway on Oct. 16th and 17th ......... this is an event not to be missed !. For further details contact Brian 0872500783 or check it out on www.ijka.net

Until next week Osu.

Picture : Pictured at last Sunday's advanced kata class sensei Brian Toomey, P.J. Moloney, Ross Daly, Ciaran O Dea, Stacey Kelly, with club members Kevin & John McCarthy missing from photograph Jim Condon.

Autumn Training Seminar

2010-10-15T12:03:00.001+01:00

A reminder to all members that IJKA World Chief Instructor Shihan S. Kato (9th Dan) will be holding an Autumn Training Seminar at Milltown Community Centre, Milltown Co. Galway on the 16th and 17th of October 2010. For information on the course or accommodation contact Brian, 0872500783.
Thanks to our members across all grades who are showing up for training in great numbers each week and it's nice to see the return of a few old faces ... keep it up well done .Osu.

Picture: Shihan S. Kato at The Spring Training Seminar held in Fermoy earlier this year.

Up and coming stars

2010-05-07T19:19:00.002+01:00

Hit this link to see slideshow

Our Hero

2010-04-30T16:18:00.003+01:00

hit this link and meet our hero,
remember this is for fun so why don't you have a go.

Irish Open Shotokan Karate Championships

2010-04-28T16:49:00.003+01:00

The Irish Open Shotokan Karate Championships will be held next Sunday May 2nd in The Loreto Sports Hall. It will be an exciting day packed full of events ranging from Katas - the performance of a series of moves incorporating punches,blocks and kicks,to Kumite which is the practice of the art of karate against an opponent under strict controlled supervision.
Doors open at 11 a.m. various competitions throughout the day until 6 p.m.
Entry 10 euros per adult ........... Children FREE.
Please come along and support.

Haiti Earthquake Relief Fund

2010-04-28T16:20:00.003+01:00

Pictured recently at the Ken-Bo-Kan Dojo,Sensei Brian Toomey 6th Dan with members of The Fermoy Karate Club presenting a cheque to Conor O'Kane towards the Haiti Earthquake Relief Fund. Brian collected sponsorship by shaving off his moustache at a function held at The Pitch & Putt to celebrate the 40th year of the club in Fermoy.Thanks to everyone who supported this worthy cause.

Recent Grading At The Ken Bu Kan DoJo

2010-04-22T11:11:00.008+01:00

Congratulations to all who were successful,

We may be long in the tooth but in Shotokan Karate we are mere tadpoles
To view more photos of the night please visit our Gallery

New in the Gallery

2010-04-19T09:43:00.007+01:00

Brian Toomey 6th Dan (IJKA) held a master class in karate in the CBI "Satori"
Pictures Courtesy of Yuriy Kopeykin and Elena Yakovleva Osu!

St Patricks Day

2010-03-17T21:54:00.005Z

A good turn out from our youngest members they're all stars
For more pictures of the day head over to our gallery

Film Archive NEW Link

2010-03-12T19:52:00.010Z

I was getting the club camera ready for tomorrows seminar and i found these enjoy

To veiw These in a bigger format go to film archive

Hunter will pull no punches in search for world glory

2010-02-26T23:17:00.007Z

CORKMAN Joe Hunter will fight in his first Shotokan Karate World Championship on june 15-20 in Tallan,Estonia.

He has been competing in karate from a young age and has won numerous, provincial, national and international titles at junior and senior level.
Still improving, he won a gold medal at the IJKA European Karate Championship in Italy in 2008 Hunter has never needed to use his fighting abilities in real life.
however, he feels that it has helped him immeasurably in other ways and he does bring a strong sense of focus and single-minded determination into the competition.
"It teaches you discipline,self respect for others. It also teaches you to look after yourself physically,"Hunter says Karate-do, translates as 'the way of the empty hand' and it evolved in japan as a means of fighting without weapons.
It relies on techniques that were originally designed to incapacitate opponents in the minimum amount of time.
"A lot of the moves,if carried out with full power and speed,have the potential to cause huge damage to an opponent.
"A judge will be able to see if a move had been pushed that extra inch it would have completely incapacitated the other fighter.
"that is the principle behind the scoring system, you execute a killing move, at full power and speed, but with maximum control.

JOE HUNTER FACTFILE

BORN- January 1, 1979
PLACE OF BIRTH- Cork

PROFESSION- Inspector with the
Environmental Protection Agency

STYLE- Shotokan Karate

AFFILIATION- International Japan Karate
Association IJKA

CLUB- Ken-Bu-Kan Dojo, Fermoy

GRADE- 3rd Dan black belt

YEARS TRAINING- 21

INSTRUCTOR- Sensei Brian Toomey 6th Dan
black belt

COACH- Sensei PJ Maloney 5th Dan black belt

Awards- Numerous provincial national & international titles
Current national & european gold medallist

HEIGHT- 5' 10"

WEIGHT- 75kg

Meikyo sandan Kata

2010-02-22T17:34:00.003Z

Yesterday sunday the 21st Sensei Brian Toomey 6th Dan, taught us Meikyo sandan Kata as usual it was an intense detailed and extremely well taught session,it is one of Shihan Tetsuhiko Asai's katas but like the rest of Shihan Tetsuhiko Asai's katas you will have to wait for the video to be posted as we are in the process of putting a few together OSU!

SHOTOKAN KATAS

2010-02-12T10:41:00.008Z

Finally finished or shotokan page covering 26 katas, each kata has several examples so it doesn't matter which organisation your with you'ill probable find one to suit.
We also have the bunkai for each kata i always find these useful as it helps me understand a kata quicker and for old school we have diagram's for quick reference.

2010-02-08T20:41:00.001Z

International Japan Karate Association Ireland

Presents 2010 Spring Seminar

IJKA World Chief Instructor
Shihan S. Kato (9th Dan)

March 13th and 14th. 2010
Ken-Bu-Kan Dojo, Fermoy,Co. Cork.
Celebrating 40 years 1970-2010

Saturday: Children’s Class 10:30am – 11:30am - €10
All Grades 11:30am – 1:00pm
All Grades 2:30pm – 4:30pm
Sunday: Instructors Class 10:30am – 11:30am
Sunday: All Grades 11:30 – 1:00pm
Dan Grading 1pm

Prices:
1 Class 2 Classes Weekend
Seniors €25 €50 €70
Juniors €15 €25 €35

For further information on the course or accommodation contact: Brian,00353872500783

Heian Katas

2010-02-04T00:46:00.003Z

It’s quite common for many students once they have passed a grade, to never really feel the need to continue their study of the Heian Kata.
It’s quite common for black belts to have completely forgotten their previous kata, being so caught up studying Bassai, Empi, Jion and Hangetsu.

However, continued attention and study of these Heian Kata should follow, and not just up to Black belt. Many very senior Dan grades devote most of the kata training time to the Heian kata’s, for these kata teach such important fundamentals, and need to be perfected for a lifetime.
Tonight i finalized my selection of heian Katas with a selection of videos covering the Individual katas and also the Bunkai of each kata, and for those who are old school i also included a step by step picture.Remember The videos are NOT posted so that you can teach yourself a kata, but are there to refresh your memory of a particular movement or transition.

HANGETSU KATA

2010-02-01T23:49:00.009Z

Yesterday sunday the 31st Sensei Brian Toomey 6th Dan, taught us Hangetsu Kata as usual it was an intense detailed and extremely well taught session,

Gallery-Shihan Tetsuhiko Asai

2010-02-01T23:13:00.012Z

Our gallery was updated today with 5 pictures of the late Shihan Tetsuhiko Asai

Fermoy Karate Club celebrating 40 years

2010-01-27T23:09:00.005Z

Fermoy Karate Club is celebrating 40 years in existence this year this blog is just one of many ways this year of acknowledging this keep checking back from time to time for further updates and schedules OSU!

An interview withTetsuhiko Asai

2010-01-26T01:10:00.008Z

Tetsuhiko Asai Sensei
New Zealand Interview - December 2003

By André Bertel – 5th Dan
(JKS New Zealand Founder & Chief Instructor)

Anyone who studies under Shuseki Shihan Tetsuhiko Asai learns rapidly why he is widely regarded as one of the greatest living masters of Shotokan karate. In the eyes of his followers - no one in the world can imitate his unbelievable technical skills. In addition to his seemingly endless knowledge, Asai Shihan's wonderful personality is loved all over the world - he is a master in the truest sense. In 2000 Asai Shihan founded the NPO (Non-profit-organisation) Japan Karate Shotokai (JKS) to take karate into the new millennium. Here, in this compelling interview, conducted in Christchurch, New Zealand, Shuseki Shihan Asai gives great insight into his unparalleled karate excellence.

(Andre Bertel) Sensei what are your main objectives in teaching Karate?

(Tetsuhiko Asai) In the past not everybody could do karate in the standard way, particularly after the war, there was a closed off mentality, a physical hardness in karate, aiming primarily to build spirit, rather than effective martial arts technique. Many people in Shotokan had, and still have, closed minds thinking this is the only way to do karate, and this permeates throughout all the aspects of their training. Karate has five aspects, firstly martial arts karate - effective in reality, secondly health karate, thirdly exercise karate, fourthly tournament karate, and lastly, karate to make a strong spirit... All these aspects are included in karate, and depending on the person, karate differs. My karate includes all of the above, not only karate for making a strong spirit. Effective karate is balanced, not just hard, this hardness which came after the war, was a way to make people push themselves to their physical, mental, and spiritual limits. This style of training is very basic and limited for martial arts/self-defense. It was also limited, participation-wise. My main objective is to return karate to its original martial arts origins, karate has no limitations. If karate can only be used by strong people, it is highly limited.

(AB) Sensei, you intensely study over 150 different kata. Many karateka can't comprehend this?

(TA) Yes, as you know we have many kata, for example if someone's punch is no good, practice this kata, if their hip rotation is no good, do this kata, kicks no good, train this kata... From practicing in this way we can improve martial arts technique. Before, karate was only movement (Asai Sensei demonstrates a few lightning fast strikes in rapid succession from his chair) with not so much meaning. Now there's more meaning, not only basic techniques but the revival of marital arts karate from the distant past. The standard Shotokan kata has emphasis on basic techniques like gedan-barai, mae-geri keage, oi-zuki and so on. These kata are mostly for development of power and speed. They also tire the muscles and breathing. They are good for making spirit and for conditioning the body, this is good in one's youth. However, as one gets older, step-by-step they must change so they can keep improving in karate. More natural movement is essential, in fact the sooner people start this the better, as it results in increased efficiency. The advanced kata I developed are martial arts kata, taking the karateka to the next level; André, you are one of my few students who know many of the advanced kata such as Hachimon, Kakuyoku shodan, Kakuyoku nidan and Kakuyoku sandan, Meikyo nidan, Meikyo sandan, Sensho, Shotei, Kashu, Suishu, Roshu, Hushu, Senka, Seiryu and others. As a result you are now executing high level martial arts karate. Others should follow your example. Some are fixated on merely studying the 26 standard Shotokan kata.

(AB) You have said that competition rules should be more martial arts orientated in the Kumite?

(TA) Absolutely, we must change from the sports kumite kind which is again very limited! Only straight punching, kicking and takedowns, not good for martial arts, creating bad habits. We must also include circular punches, strikes, and other karate techniques. If the distance is close, why not use a controlled empi-uchi or mawashi-zuki to win? This is martial arts karate, far more diverse than just sports.

Lastly Sensei, what is the future direction for Budo Karate?

(TA) For people to be able to do karate throughout their lives and keep improving. Everyone can practice karate-do. In regards to groups around the world, division in karate is not good. It is always because of ego, because everyone wants the top position in national federations and so on. I think if people want the top position in karate they have to train more than the others (laughs). For example if doing a seminar with me the top people should train seven to ten hours per day then perhaps they don't want the top position, they just want to quietly train and improve. This is because they are too busy wanting to be called the chief instructor or something. This is very stupid! Too many people want to be the boss more than they want to train and improve their own karate. My organisation is a martial arts organisation and I am a karate-man not a politician.

(AB) Thank you so much Sensei for doing this interview! We can't wait to get you back to New Zealand for more Technical Seminars and great times, OSU!

(TA) My pleasure Andre, OSU!

pics of our sensei Kato Sadashige - chief instructor IJKA

2010-01-25T21:46:00.002Z

Karate Kata

2010-01-25T21:30:00.001Z

The most popular image associated with kata is that of a karate practitioner performing a series of punches and kicks in the air. The kata are executed as a specified series of approximately 20 to 70 moves, generally with stepping and turning, while attempting to maintain perfect form. There are perhaps 100 kata across the various forms of karate, each with many minor variations. The number of moves in a kata may be referred to in the name of the kata, e.g., Gojūshiho, which means "54 steps." The number of moves may also have links with Buddhist spirituality. The number 108 is significant in Buddhism, and kata with 54, 36, or 27 moves (divisors of 108) are common. The practitioner is generally counselled to visualize the enemy attacks, and his responses, as actually occurring, and karateka are often told to "read" a kata, to explain the imagined events. The study of the meaning of the movements is referred to as the bunkai, meaning analysis, of the kata.

One explanation of the use of kata is as a reference guide for a set of moves. Not to be used following that "set" pattern but to keep the movements "filed". After learning these kata, this set of learned skills can then be used in a sparring scenario (particularly without points). The main objective here is to try out different combinations of techniques in a safe, practice environment to ultimately find out how to defeat your opponent.

Nathan Johnson claims that most antique karate kata were developed for use with weapons rather than as open hand techniques.

Also, in kata, the blocking movements are often performed while moving forward, which wouldn't be practical during the 'Bunkai'. These blocking movements would be performed during a Tai sabaki (体捌き), stepping-back action, where the opponent's attack would be avoided and the block would be a mere cover. These kata were performed in this backward/incorrect way as it left the true intentions of the movements elusive to spying onlookers. The true kata can be performed by advanced students who have a good feel for taisabaki and the dynamics of evasion.

About Shotokan Karate

2010-01-25T19:52:00.001Z

Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of shotokan karate, stated that the ultimate aim of karate lies not in victory or defeat, but in perfection of character. In this way, karate may be described as an aesthetic course of self-discipline, leading to enlightenment. Literally, karate-do is the way of the empty hand. This includes the philosophical notion of "emptying" oneself of improper motives; not merely fighting without weapons. The principles of training go beyond technique and may be applied to ordinary life. Karate training involves little instruction in philosophy. Students are expected to learn the underlying philosophical principles through hard work and much practice. By following the technical directions of the instructors, the example of the senior students and applying themselves completely to each technique, karate-ka will develop a deep understanding of both the technical and philosophical aspects of karate.

It is said that in karate there is no second chance. Karate-ka are taught to use each technique as if their lives depended upon its successful application. This concept is called ikken hikattsu in Japanese, literally to kill with one blow. However, the real meaning is that a karate-ka must be completely committed to each technique and must apply each technique with certainty, force, decisiveness and without regard to the possibility of failure. Shotokan karate traces its roots to the islands of Okinawa, which now form part of Japan. An indigenous fighting system know as Okinawa-te (Okinawa hand) would eventually become karate (Chinese hand) and, finally, karate-do (the way of the empty hand). Historically, Okinawa was an independent kingdom, but it was strongly influenced by Chinese culture. Okinawa established a tributary relationship with China, which allowed Okinawan martial artists to study in China (and to train with Chinese martial artists visiting Okinawa). There were originally three styles of Okinawa-te, named for the towns where they were located: Shuri-te, Naha-te and Tomari-te. Shotokan karate is a modern Japanese style, descended from these traditional Okinawan styles. Unfortunately, the history of karate is somewhat incomplete and speculative. Until recently, karate was taught in secret and few records were maintained. During the period of secrecy, there would be no open discussion karate training, even within a family.

Gichin Funakoshi is widely regarded as the father of modern karate and is certainly the father of Japanese karate. He was an Okinawan schoolteacher and an enthusiastic karate-ka. He began karate training in his childhood, primarily with Yasutsune Azato (1827-1906) and Yasutsune Itosu (1830-1915). Funakoshi was selected to give the first demonstrations of karate outside Okinawa. They occurred in 1916 (possibly 1917) and in 1922. His demonstrations were well received and there was much interest in the introduction of karate to Japan. Funakoshi remained in Japan after the second demonstration.

Initially, there were few students to support the only karate instructor in Japan. The 56 year old schoolteacher had to take odd jobs at the dormitory where he set up his temporary dojo. He worked as watchman, caretaker and gardener. To pay for his meals, he had to persuade the cook to take lessons. Our style is called Shotokan as a tribute to Master Funakoshi, who used the pen-name Shoto on poetry and calligraphy. Shoto means waving pine. Funakoshi selected this name because he enjoyed hearing the sound of the wind through the pine trees as he took evening walks in Okinawa. In 1936, Funakoshi built his first dojo in Tokyo. His students named it the Shotokan, meaning Shoto's club. Funakoshi did not actually name his style of karate, but the name of the dojo came to be associated with the style itself. Master Funakoshi died on 26 April 1957. During his lifetime, he trained many famous students, including Shigeru Egami, Masatoshi Nakayama, Keinosuke Enoeda, Tsutomu Oshima, Hidetaka Nishiyama and Teruyuki Okazaki.

One of Master Funakoshis enduring legacies are the Dojo kun. Five precepts which all students of Karate should adhere.

These are:
Seek perfection of character (Hitotsu jinkaku kansei ni tsutomurukoto)
Be faithful (Hitotsu, makoto no michi wo yashinaukoto)
Endeavour (Hitotsu, doryoku no seishin wo yashinnaukoto)
Respect others (Hitotsu, reigi wo omonzurukoto)
Refrain from violent behaviour (Hitotsu, kekki no yuu wo imashimurukoto)

Kubotan-The Self-defense Keyring

2010-01-25T19:08:00.001Z

The Kubotan is a self-defense tool designed by a Japanese man by the name of Takayuki Kubota. It was developed as a self-defense device (I’m intentionally avoiding the word weapon) for use by police officers in Japan, often for riot control. You can learn the basics of using a Kubotan very quickly, and do not need to be an expert martial artist to use one.

The Kubotan is a short stick of about 6 inches or 15 centimetres in length. It can be made from plastic, metal or wood; with ridges along the middle; and a flat, rounded or pointed tip at one end. It usually has a hole at the other end for a keyring. Kubotans are used to amplify pain on nerve points without causing permanent damage to an assailant. Applying pressure with the Kubotan as a tool on certain points on the body allows you to control an attacked to aid your escape from a dangerous situation.

Kubotans are easy to obtain, and are not illegal to own or carry (as a keyring) in most countries. However, technically it is a weapon, so it is worth checking the laws in your country. There are variations that double as a torch or other useful devices, and therefore less likely to attract the wrong attention from law enforcement agencies.

I strongly suggest completing a training course to use a Kubotan rather than use a book so that you receive proper tuition and don’t damage yourself or someone else. And again, do check the law in your country if you intend to carry one of these. It’s better to not get on the wrong side of the law!

Why not take the karate challenge???

2010-01-24T23:43:00.000Z

Those that take up martial arts do so for a variety of reasons, while the benefits are also many and varied. Participants include all ages and genders, ranging from the physically fit to the physically challenged.

One of the founding principles of martial arts training is to respect those with greater knowledge and experience. For children this means developing respectful relationships with parents, academic teachers and peers. the same benefits apply to adults, both in the work place and at home or of respecting yourself, your spouse, your family and the people with whom you work.

Success in the martial arts does not require athletic skills. However, through your training you will develop key characteristics to enhance your athletic skills for other sports interests. Benefits such as better hand/eye co-ordination, endurance and physical fitness can help you improve in any sport.

The martial arts not only teaches you how to cope with physical situations,but also how to avoid confrontations using proper body language. In today's world, you may never need to physically defend yourself, but the newspapers are full of people who couldn't.

Mental discipline affects your daily attitude and the decisions you make when life challenges you with new obstacles. Martial arts can teach you how to relax, focus and maintain your control when the going gets tough. Children with strong mental discipline are least likely to be susceptible to peer pressure anxieties, while adults learn to manage stress levels brought on by life's pressures.

Many parents have reported that their children have dramatically improved their school grades after they have joined martial arts. Better grades can strongly influence a child's overall success in their future career and their life. Is there a better reason to involve children in the martial arts???

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Hunter will pull no punches in search for world glory

Meikyo sandan Kata

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Gallery-Shihan Tetsuhiko Asai

Fermoy Karate Club celebrating 40 years

An interview withTetsuhiko Asai

pics of our sensei Kato Sadashige - chief instructor IJKA

Karate Kata

About Shotokan Karate

Kubotan-The Self-defense Keyring

Why not take the karate challenge???