After corresponding via e-mail with fellow Te-jutsu Instructor Hubert Laenen, 6th Dan, in Belgium for several months, the Federation that Sensei Laenen belongs and holds the position of Technical Director – Te-jutsu, discussions and introductions have led to the opening of a branch Federation in New Zealand. Discussions with the President of the ‘ International Martial Arts Federation – Europe ‘ Sensei Geoff Benoy, 6th Dan Shotokan Karate and Kobudo, and fellow Martial Artists here in NZ, has led to the NZ branch being opened under the title of ‘ World of International Martial Arts Federations – New Zealand ‘ or WIMAF-NZ for short.
This is to be a true Martial Arts Federation open to all styles regardless of country of origin. There are already two Kung-fu, a Taekwon-do and a Karate club interested in joining. Via the IMAF-Europe, members will have their ranks recognised Internationally and will receive certification in line with their Dan grade, upon recommendations from the Director of the New Zealand branch and verification of rank. Higher Dan grade testing will also be available once a high grade-testing panel has been put in place here in NZ or, by attending grade testing in Europe.
The WIMAF-NZ is totally non political or style biased. It will offer help if requested but will not interfere with member club business. WIMAF-NZ will host seminars, training camps and various types of tournaments. A weekend camp, Gasshuka, has already been held in October 2003. This camp was held at Steadfast Park in Piha and was enjoyed by all who attended. This years Gassuka looks to be a winner as Geoff Benoy, Hubert Laenen and Andre Le Capitaine, 4th Dan Judo / 2nd Dan Iaido and Secretary – General for IMAF-Europe have all agreed to attend as guest Instructors. Venue has yet to be confirmed, but again will be held during October. Apart from the events that will be held in New Zealand, member clubs will have the opportunity to attend International seminars and tournaments hosted my IMAF-Europe. Member countries include Belgium, Germany, France, England, Russia, etc.etc. Via a newsletter, web site and the events calendar in this magazine, member clubs will be encouraged to attend events hosted by other member clubs and other associated Federations.
The WIMAF-NZ also offer Academic Study Courses for the Martial Arts enthusiast. These courses are not technique based but, study and written assignments to give the students a better understanding of the history and diversity of the arts. Courses available are ‘ Certificate in Martial Studies ‘, 12 assignments covering the major arts, open to anyone who has an interest in Martial Arts, ‘ Diploma in Martial Studies ‘, 6 assignments on the five major countries where the arts developed and the sixth one on weapons of the arts, open to those who have completed the ‘Certificate in Martial Studies’. A ‘ Masters Degree ‘ is also offered but this is reserved for those who are 4th Dan or over completed both the ‘Certificate’ and ‘Diploma’ and requires an in depth written report on the Martial Art they practice.
The WIMAF-NZ kick off 2004 with a training session and picnic at Murphy’s Bush in February and are planning a combined training seminar to be held in March/ April. Sometime during the middle of the year, if planning permits and all is going well, an ‘xtreme Tournament’ may be held. This will involve competitors performing
Techniques and free style Kata in a showmanship style. In other words they need to wow the judges with flying spinning kicks etc. Weapon Kata will also be involved
With all competitors required putting on three demonstrations, and being scored for each one separately with the ones with the highest total scores coming away with the trophies. If not 2004, this tournament will definitely be held as of 2005 and will be an annual event.
