Nineteen Woodlane club members, led by summer course instructor Sensei Lee Smith, descended on Clacton in the last week of June for the annual Ishinryu open summer course.
Grading Success - Two Woodlane students took the opportunity to grade on the Summer Course:
| Brittany | to 2nd Kyu Brown Belt |
| Daniel | to 3rd Kyu Blue Belt |
Competition success - Woodlane students achieved notable success in the competitive events returning with 13 medals (2 gold, 7 silver, and 4 Bronze).
|
KUMITE |
|
| Vasfi Eroglu | 1st Place - Men's Kumite (1st & 2nd Kyu) |
| Tony Taylor | 2nd Place - Men's Kumite (1st & 2nd Kyu) |
| Paul Fanner | 3rd Place - Men's Kumite (1st & 2nd Kyu) |
| Gary Field | 2nd Place - Men's Kumite (up to 5th Kyu) |
| Kimberly Vant | 2nd Place - Ladies Kumite |
| Kimberly Vant | 2nd Place - Ladies under 21 Kumite |
| Tayla Holland | 3rd Place - Ladies Under 21 Kumite |
| Brittany | 3rd Place - Girl's Open Kumite |
| Daniel | 1st Place - Boy's Kumite (up to 4th Kyu) |
| Steven | 2nd Place - Boy's Kumite (up to 4th Kyu) |
|
KATA |
|
| Kimberly Vant | 2nd Place - Ladies Kata |
| Paul Fanner | 2nd Place - Men's Kata |
| Tony Taylor | 3rd Place - Men's Kata |
In addition, Brittany was placed second in the fun run (junior female) while Daniel was placed forth (Junior Male).
Tony Spinks was awarded a special course award to recognise his exceptional contribution this year. Tony ran one of the optional pad sessions as well as assisting on the fun run and the general gradings. Tony also provided at least two demanding warm-up sessions (I say at least - it seemed like more!)
For various reasons some club members were unable to train at the summer course this year - however this did not prevent them making an appearance and showing support for the club. Thanks to Garry Lawrence, Laura Holt, Sue Hay, and Dave Lawrence. Plus thanks as always to the family supporters who attended the course.
A special mention for Pearl Vant - official club photographer and unofficial club 'mum' who dispensed medication, advice, support and the occasional well deserved slap to club members. Sensei Donovan recognised Pearl's unique contribution to Ishinryu by presenting her with a bouquet of flowers at the end of the course.
Thanks to pearl we have over 1,400 images from the week. See our Photo Gallery for a selection. The full set of photos are available to club members on CD.
Be assured - Woodlane will be back next year. Don't delay - book your place now. Let's make 2010 another great summer course for Woodlane.
Full list of Woodlane attendees for 2009...