CLUB INFORMATION The club was founded by its Sensei Jade Thorpe in November 2007 at the Marks Park Archery range in Emmerentia. Since then we have moved to our newly constructed traditional Kyudojo. THE NEW KYUDOJO (KOBOKU DOJO) Named after the old Carob tree growing in the Kyudojo and Nestled among beautiful greenery in Craighall park, this privately owned Kyudojo and Matoba (Still under construction), is built to allow Kyudo practice in conformance with All Nippon Kyudo Federation procedural standards. RESIDENT TEACHER Practice is led by Sensei Jade Thorpe a Graded member of the Sambu Kyudojo in Chiba Prefecture Japan. Jade Sensei holds Senior grades in Shotokan karate, Kendo and Kyudo, and has traveled to Japan on many occasions for practice and Gradings. In 2001 he came second in the world for Kata (men's Division) at the world Tenshinkan Karate Championships held in Tokyo Japan. Since then he has dedicated himself to the instruction and teachings of Kyudo. PRACTICE Classes take place every Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 18h30 to 21h00 and Beginner classes every Wednesday 18h30 to 20h30 . KOBOKU KYUDOJO LOCATION The club is situated at 42 A Lancaster ave Craighall Park. Visitors are always welcome to our Kyudojo, but because it is on Private property we ask if they write or call ahead to schedule a visit. HOW TO BECOME A STUDENT If you are interested in practicing Kyudo with us, the best way to start is to simply come to one of our practices. You will be able to attend and participate in a few practices before you are asked to sign anything or pay any money. This is because many people begin their Kyudo practice because it looks beautiful, but soon discover that the beauty of the Kyudo performance comes as a result of hard work and discipline. It’s not as easy as it looks! So we try to give prospective students a chance to make sure they really want to do this before making any commitments. REQUIREMENTS By its nature Kyudo is suitable for women and men of all ages although beginners must be 13 years or older. Kyudo is an activity that requires a considerable commitment in terms of time. Beginners will start by using club equipment but at a later stage personal equipment will need to be bought. Students are advised not to buy equipment without the advice of their instructor. The selection of the right equipment requires experience and an understanding of individual needs. Despite being hand made by traditional craftspeople the cost of bows and arrows is no more than the western equivalent. Training is conducted in traditional clothing of Hakama and Keikogi and these are among the first items a beginner will need to buy. The most important requirement is a willingness to learn within the traditional framework of a Japanese Dojo. |
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