23/08/2026
Situation Report (extract from Newsletter 1)
Things must seem to have gone quiet at our end, but please be assured things are moving forward, albeit slowly, towards an even bigger and better Gasshuku 27. This is where we are:
Whilst things were still fresh in our minds after Gasshuku 2026, we had a Lessons Learned/Suggestions meeting. We did invite all delegates to provide their comments, and all were discussed. Key points to come out of that meeting included:
• Gasshuku 27 will not include any Grading & Assessments.
• We will scrap organised trips in 2027. As an alternative, we will provide any assistance/guidance required for people to organise their own trips. We have a vast knowledge of the local area, and if your questions are too hard, we will know somebody who will have the answer.
• During Gasshuku 2026 John received several requests for lightweight Gis. Whilst he managed to supply 2, time was too short to get the rest. Leading up to Gasshuku 27, we will advertise the Gis through a suitable newsletter, allowing delegates plenty of time to order in advance.
• Gasshuku 27 will offer 5 days of martial arts training, similar to Gasshuku 2026.
• John has contacted all instructors from Gasshuku 2026, and they have all made a provisional early commitment to Gasshuku 27.
We are considering making Gasshuku 27 residential for overseas visitors. Negotiations are currently taking place with Loligo Resort in Nong Kae (approximately 5Km from Hua Hin Centre). This hotel, set slightly back from the beach, offers spacious, well-appointed rooms, with restaurants, a large swimming pool and gardens. It is closely affiliated to the Lets Sea resort, which is directly on the beach with many shared facilities. Most importantly, Loligo has a large air-conditioned events room that leads onto an even larger private outdoor area with artificial grass. We think it is perfect, if we can negotiate a good price. We have encountered a slight delay with this because the owners have been dealing with a substantial medical emergency in Hong Kong. Negotiations should be back on track soon. Loligo is within easy walking distance of the world-famous Tamarind Food Market and Cicada Market.
Failing Loligo, we should be able to book King of Muay Thai gym again. At least everybody is familiar with that one. Does anybody have strong feelings regarding either location? Nothing is actually booked yet.
If we use the Loligo facilities, the BIG advantage training times will not need to be as rigid. With KMT, we had 2 x 2 hour slots each day, which we couldn’t change. If we have the Loligo facilities, training can be at any time across the day – the area will be ours. We could therefore maybe have some days where training is complete during the morning, leaving the rest of the day free. Our aim is to give delegates more free time to enjoy Thailand.
Bruce is talking with other instructors to provide an even more diverse experience, including trying to introduce a lady instructor to the team.
Other arts being examined include both Aikido and Zumba.
Bruce’s aim for the final day of Gasshuku 27 is to have a Shiai Kata and Kumite tournament, which will involve all delegates, and should be fun. This will be followed by the traditional Sayonara Party.
Don’t worry guys, even though we are quiet, we are still hard at it, working for you behind the scenes. As soon as we have something firm, we’ll be in touch immediately.
Any queries, please don’t hesitate to contact us [email protected]. Response should be within 24 hours.
