Yanagi Kai Open Success – Manchester
Yesterday saw a fantastic showing from our club at the Yanagi Kai Open in Manchester—a high-level competition that provided a true test of skill, determination and spirit for all involved. Yanagi Kai is the top association in Englandl. Their competitors are incredibly committed and experienced, so this was a perfect comp for our students to compete with and learn from the best. We must congratulate Ian Swain Sensei for yet another well organised competition, we are always grateful for the invite and experience it gives our students.
We are incredibly proud of the students who stepped onto the tatami and represented the club with such commitment and heart: Thomas Q, Loui D’A, Jayden C, Esme S, Nate S, Joe R, Ben M, William C, and Sensei Jaime. Each competitor gave their all, demonstrating both technical excellence and the fighting spirit that defines our dojo.
Competing at this level is never easy, and the experience itself is a valuable step in every martial artist’s journey. It was brilliant to see our team rise to the challenge and support one another throughout the day.
A special congratulations goes out for the outstanding results achieved:
🥉 Sensei Jaime – 3rd Place in Kata
🥉 Joe R – 3rd Place in Kata
🥉 Esme S – 3rd Place in Kumite(in her first competition in the seniors category!)
Taking home three bronze medals from such a competitive event is a fantastic achievement and a reflection of the hard work being put in both individually and as a team.
We would like to extend a sincere thank you to Sam Sensei for coaching the team on the day, providing guidance and support when it mattered most. Appreciation also goes to Sensei Jaime, whose dedication during Monday training sessions continues to prepare our students for competition success. He continues to push himself, gain experience and is such a great inspiration to all of our budding kata athletes.
Finally, a huge thank you to all the parents and supporters who gave up their time over the weekend to cheer on the team. Your encouragement and commitment make a real difference. Gary Sensei was ever present and hugely supportive as always - top man. Thank you also to Julie Moran who keeps us organised and co-ordinates all the entries. You are our star!
Amazing work everyone – we are very proud of you all. Keep training, keep pushing, and we look forward to the next challenge! 🥋💪