Tuesday, August 14, 2012 by C. Michial Jones
In the traditional martial arts, a Gasshuku (合宿) is more than just a seminar; it is a “lodging together” or a period of intensive, communal training. Since joining the International Gojuryu Karate Association (IGKA) in 2007 and being appointed the USA Director and Pan-American Director, I have made it my mission to establish an annual Gasshuku at the Yushikan.
My goal is simple yet profound: to bring together instructors and students who share a lineage back to the Jundokan and Miyazato Eiichi Sensei. Over the decades, many dojos have separated from the main tree in Okinawa. These events are designed to reunite those branches—though we remain open to any practitioner, regardless of style or affiliation, who wishes to train with sincerity.
The Evolution of the Training
2010: The Foundation
The inaugural Gasshuku was an intimate two-day affair focused on my own students and their juniors. We treated it as a deep dive into the syllabus, refining every kata and two-person drill up to their respective ranks. It set the standard for the technical precision and social brotherhood that would define future years.
2011: The Diverse Expansion
By the second year, the event grew in both duration and diversity. We expanded to three days and welcomed guests from Texas, Illinois, Alabama, Kentucky, and our first contingent from Canada.
A highlight of this year was the presence of Lloyd Johnson Hanshi, 9th Dan. A long-time member of the Jundokan, Johnson Sensei spent hours drilling the participants in Sanchin and Hojo Undo. This year also marked our first IGKA Yudansha testing, where several practitioners earned their international Dan grade certificates.
2012: The Synergy of the Masters
Our most recent gathering brought together attendees from across the U.S. and Canada for a collaborative exchange of knowledge. We were joined by Col. Tony Willis from the Goyukan dojo of Anyu Shinjo Sensei.
Instead of a single lecturer, we took a “small group” approach. Col. Willis, Wayne Currie, and I rotated through the ranks, ensuring every student received personalized corrections and advice from three different perspectives.
The 99% Factor: One of the most rewarding aspects of the weekend was the “Comparison of Kata” among the senior instructors. Despite coming from different dojos and different parts of the world, our kata were 99% identical. This confirmed that our lineage is being preserved with remarkable integrity across the Western Hemisphere.
Beyond the Mat
A Gasshuku is only as strong as the bonds formed outside the dojo. This year, the training sessions were punctuated by group breakfasts, a high-spirited dinner, and a session of “Karate talk” that lasted until 3:00 AM.
The success of these events is largely due to the support of my wife, Amber, who has been a gracious host, providing the food and hospitality that turns a training event into a family gathering.
Looking Forward
As I look toward the next year, the “Keep on Keeping On” philosophy remains at the forefront. Col. Willis and I have already planned reciprocal visits, and Wayne Currie and I are looking to attend further seminars together. The IGKA Pan-American Gasshuku has become a vital hub for the Jundokan lineage, ensuring that while the branches may be far apart, the root remains the same.
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