National NZ Summer Training Camp a Big Hit

The early morning tranquility of Opoutama Village, in Mahia Peninsula, was abuzz with energy as the mantra of over 100 karate students echoed through the valley, on their dawn training run to Blue Bay beach. The Eastern Zone Karate Club of Nuhaka/Mahia hosted the national NZ Summer Training Camp (NZKOKK Inc), catering for 108 registered participants from 23 to 26 January 2004.

Students from as far as Auckland, Wellington, Hamilton, and Kihikihi, including special guest instructor, Sensei Garry O’Neill from Brisbane, Australia (3rd Dan and Australia’s top full contact fighter), joined with the local Kyokushin Karate Club for three night’s lodgings at Ruawharo Marae to share the latest training techniques and morals.

Other dignitaries included NZ Branch Chief Shihan Stephen Takiwa (5th Dan), Sensei Chris Gower (4th Dan), and Sensei Tahi Parata (3rd Dan). Between these four men over 100 years karate experience was on hand for the benefit of the eager students, who ranged from 5 to 72 years old. The camp included attending the successful Summer Tournament on Saturday 24th January 2004, followed by Sunday’s 5am sunrise beach run and training.

The 7am breakfast was followed by a training session at the Mahia Event Centre where attention to defensive systems and advanced kicking techniques were demonstrated.

A hearty lunch was required to sustain the students through Sunday’s final training session, as many felt the impact of the previous days tournament begin to take its toll. Aches and pains were set aside as the beach session included water and wave training, and sumo wrestling in the sand. Fun and laughter was had by all. The spirit of the Kyokushin Karate Students was evident as they displayed the courage to persevere under pressure, with Monday’s 5am Mahanga Beach run seeing them greet the sun rising over the ocean – warming their faces and strengthening their spirits.

The camp organisers wish to thank the community, volunteers, supporters, and sponsors: Lion Foundation, Southern Trust, Eastern & Central Community Trust, Opus International Consultants, QRS Ltd, Works Infrastructure, Clyde Hotel, Ferry Hotel, Sunset Point Bar & Bistro, Kea Hire, and Birds Gift Shop. Your contributions aided students from our relatively isolated, small and economically disadvantaged rural communities to experience the latest training techniques and values practiced by international and national instructors. The exposure of our young people to the national event has also increased their awareness of the existence of other karate clubs and students of all ages, sharing common goals and interests.

It was a special thrill to have such talent come to our remote location. The inspiration provided has set all the students on their path towards physical, mental, and spiritual development. KIAI!

D Takiwa, J. Ross, A. Goes . W Gabb, G. O’Neill and C. Gower.