Mushin seniors attend Iain Abernethy course in Belfast

Iain Abernethy visited Ireland again and we were there to learn from arguably Europe's foremost pioneer on kata bunkai. Gerard Neeson, Gerard Rooney, and Eric Forsythe attended the event, which was hosted by Zanshin Karate Jutsu at the Hut Glengormley on Sunday 3rd December from 1-5 p.m. With the numbers growing in the lead up to the commencement of the course we knew space was going to be at a premium.

However, Iain in his own unique style managed to get across his approach to kata the way he does. Fours came and went and it was time to leave. The weather was not favourable but there were 30-40 martial artists in the confines of the dojo who were oblivious to the sounds of the rain pelting the roof, which was replaced by the sounds of groans from martial artists implementing the techniques, and principles that was explained to them.

New friends were had, new concepts and principles were learned and the opportunity to train with such a reputable instructor was not missed.

Subjects covered on the day were:

Shuto uke
Drills
Exerts from the Pinan katas
Gedan Barai
Principles of creating, maintaining, and controlling advantage
Importance of stance

All in attendance had a thoroughly enjoyable and informative day. We also got a chance to get a few photographs with Iain, Murray and Fred (travelled across from England to assist in the courses)