Friday 9th October and Saturday 10th October 2009 saw Washinkai Ireland’s Autumn Gasshuku take place at the Bawnacre leisure complex in Irvinestown, Co. Fermanagh.  Once again the training event was facilitated by Sensei Chris Thompson.

For two hours on the Friday evening senior karate-ka explored  black belt level syllabus followed by Dan Grading for 2 Candidates.  Christopher McGettigan (Enniskillen) succesfully passed his 1st Dan black belt and Brendan O’Neill(Omagh) successfully passed his 2nd Dan black belt .

Saturday was general training for all cadet and seniors.  As well as  Wadoryu katas Sensei Thompson took us through Pachhu, Seipai and Tenshin-sho. All these kata will be required in future dan gradings.   This was followed by an in depth look at the Washinkai Ohyos (pairs work)  which was very productive even if we were left with a few bruises !

Washinkai Karate Ireland is a member of Onakai, the governing body for Karate in Ireland recognised by the World Karate Federation. We hold classes for juniors cadets and adults of all levels of experience. Instructor Dave Martin(5th Dan) may be contacted on 02868628915 or at WashinkaiIreland@hotmail.co.uk.