Aikido Shugyo Dojo (Toronto) Newsletter - August 1997

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Aikido Shugyo Dojo Newsletter - August 1997 - September 1997

Summer Seminar 1997
by Joseph Shaw

Donovan Waite Sensei Waite Sensei demonstrates
kokyu on Oleg Gorfinkel.

I was asked to take some time and offer you my recollections and observations of the Donovan Waite Sensei seminar. Because I was unable to participate on the mat, my views of the techniques demonstrated by Donovan Sensei are those of an educated? observer. I am constantly amazed and impressed by the different interpretations of standard moves that each sensei brings with them.

First off, I was very impressed by Sensei Waite's active participation with others on the mat. Time and again I would see him approach a working duo or group, pause, take a wide stance and really concentrate on the actions of nage and uke. At first it appeared intimidating, but everyone quickly realized that he wasn't there to criticize but to offer suggestions on how to perform the movement better.

Donovan Waite Sensei Waite Sensei unbalances Dariuscz Macalka.

Ramin mentioned how impressed he was with Sensei Waite's ki (power). Ramin was used as uke several times and he recalled how his movements were under the control of Sensei Waite's energy. Sometimes uke may anticipate nage's intentions and attempt to "lead" nage, not so with Sensei Waite. As Ramin remarked, "he went where he was sent" and loved it.

On Sunday afternoon, Sensei Waite ran three moves together and I tried "air" aikido as I watched from the edge of the mat. Sensei Collins was watching me and could see how confused I was. He told me not to think of the move but wait until I could practice on the mat with someone.

Many people tested for various kyu upgrades. The party afterwards at the Bloor Valley Club was a big success. It was the night of poetry reading and impromptu storytelling which again revealed what a rich diverse group of people who practice aikido.

Special thanks to those people who assisted with registration and selling tee-shirts. Also for those who supplied water and oranges and helped to set up mats.