The United Goju-kan Karate-do held their Gasshuku 2004,
July 27- 31.
This years theme was “United in Training”.
The gathering of about 65 students were in awe as eight different teachers from Australia, California and Hawaii shared in their knowledge and experiences opening up the eyes and minds as what was out there to grasp. Guest Instructors were…

Sensei Rodney Hu from Goju Stockton, Ca, Sensei Paul Ortino Okinawa Kenpo Dhrama-ryu Hawaii
Sensei Jason Izzaquire of Gracie Jujitsu Hawaii
Sensei Eric Marn Shotokan Hawaii
Sensei Tony Troche Karate / Aikido Hawaii
Sensei John Ross from Australia Goju-kan
Gatu Lowell Manabe Kali/Escrima Hawaii
Sifu Kimo Robello Yin Kin Tsin Kempo Hawaii

They was much information to soak up within the three day seminar. The Gasshuku included lessons on Kata, Bunkai, Self-defense, Kihon, Kick Boxing Bag work, Grappling and Stick fighting basics.

On Saturday, July 31. A Junior Black Belt Grading along with a Sr. Black Belt Grading was held. The Three Juniors, Adam Nappa, Peter Gogis from Australia and Kianoa Aki from Hawaii with Bob Tashiro went though a 2 hour long grading to include all basics (in double counts), kihon ido, self-defense, Kata and the Bunkai to their rank kata, and ending in Kumite. It was an awesome grading that at times were very emotional for both the students as well as the spectators. My congratulations to all four of you for an excellent showing and attaining your Junior and Senior Black Belts.
Saturday night ended with our Farewell and Awards Banquet. All the grading Belts and certificates were given out along with Good School Report Cards Awards. The guest teachers all had a wonderful gift bag with lots of goodies to show our gratitude for sharing a few of what they know. Dinner was great, as Sensei Jann was the chef. Preparing the feast way ahead of time, nothing was left.
Once again, I would like to thank all of you that participated at this years Gasshuku 2004. I look forward to seeing you all in 2006.

Aloha, Sensei Jann