01/01/2026
Akemash*te omedetou gozaimasu! Happy New Year! Looking forward to training in 2026.
2025 was a great year for the Shinkawakan. We had our first international seminar featuring Andrew McBride sensei. Osu! Students earned kyu rank advancements, and our dojo traveled ro Japan for the 110th Gozo Shioda festival. What a wonderful experience.
Since returning from Japan in late Sep, we've been working on the lessons and insights from the various master teachers. We've had some tragedy - a student suffered an injury (off the mats) and while he is recovering nicely, he has a difficult path ahead. Nonetheless, he still has great aikido spirit and we are excited for him to get back on the mats when able.
Also some good news! We welcomed a new student, Mike-san, who is training diligently, asking good questions, and doing well.
Kangeiko (winter training) started in Dec. One class was nearly literal - the outside temp was - 10°F (-23°C) and the gas meter froze. The dojo was a toasty 48°F. After a few hours we warmed it up to 51°F (10.5°C)!
Looking forward to the Tokyo Fusion seminar in March, a seminar hosted by Fred Haynes sensei in September, and continued growth for the students!
Train hard with a pure heart. Osu!