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The final event for many of the Washinkai Instructors was our annual dinner held for the second year running in Surrey.

It was a lovely event and a chance for all tutors of Washinkai to bid farewell to Sensei Neville Smith, 8th Da, who moves to Scotland in the New Year.  He has not completely retired from the group and plans to return regularly for special events, as well as our Summer Gasshuku.

After another successful year with a lot of growth, we are looking forward to another strong year in 2024.

On Saturday, 9th December, the final event for the Association was held at Lionel Zeffert's club in Andover.

The course was held prior to two students of Andover Club attempting Shodan grade.

After a vigorous warm up, both Ana-Maria Apostol and Ian Gee graded.  Both were successful.  Many congratulations!

The photos below show Sensei Lionel Zeffert receiving his Godan certificate from his successful grading at this year's Summer Gasshuku at Milton Abbey.

The Autumn Gasshuku for the Washinkai Association took place at our Lydd Club on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th October this year, hosted by Chris Wateridge, 6th Dan.

It was the hottest October weekend since records began and everybody enjoyed the lovely Autumn sunshine.  Instructors from seven of our clubs were represented along with some of their students.

Dan gradings were held for two Shodan Ho grades and one Nidan.  All three were successful in the gradings which took place on Saturday after the course had finished.

A few photos of the competition held at the Lydd Dojo, hosted by Sensei Chris on 17 September 2023.

It was lovely to see all competitors from the local area working hard to achieve their personal goals in Washinkai Karate.  This was a great taster for the Nationals in March 2024.