A practice was held in Tunbridge Wells on Sunday, with kendoka from many dojo in attendance, to commemorate the 90th birthday later this week, of Roald Knutsen sensei.
The proceedings started with a performance by Steve Horton of the Shiten-ryu Shiho Kiome-no-waza, an iai form designed to scare away any malevolent or mischievous demons from the four cardinal points. This was followed by a formal demonstration of the Nihon Kendo Kata, by Phil Jupp and Stuart Dickinson.
There followed a general goodwill practice involving all those present.
After the practice Knutsen sensei addressed the kendoka, thanking everyone for attending and making some observations and instructional points. He stressed the importance of reigi, and attention to detail, as being fundamental to improvement in kendo. He also emphasised that good kiai was essential for developing kendo cutting technique.
Thanks to Tonbridge Dojo for organising and hosting the event.
