Karateka enhance their training

Dedicated to improving the standard of karate in Newcastle, Butokukan dojo held a-two day seminar led by Sensei Carel van der Westhuizen from Pretoria.

The seminar took place last Friday and Saturday at Newcastle Senior Primary.

“This was our eighth annual gasshuku, and the purpose of it was to ensure the standard of karate was the same, from Okinawa to Newcastle,” said Sensei Frik Willemse of the Newcastle dojo.

As the chief instructor of Butokukan South Africa, Sensei van der Westhuizen dedicated his time to ensure local karateka were able to perform at top level.

“The gasshuku focused on advanced techniques, weapons such as the nanchuks and bo, as well to learn how to better their style. The gasshuku lived up to its original meaning, which means to lodge together and train harder,” Sensei Willemse added.

Karateka found the seminar educational and are now looking forward to a visit from John Spence, a karateka from America, who will be visiting Newcastle in July to share his knowledge with local karateka.