Welcome to South Austin Aikido

We had three kyu tests on Sunday including Peter Feighner, David Huffaker and Gilbert Hughes.  All of the test were well done.

Peter got to go first and being as it was his first test (Rokyu) he may have been a little nervous, but it didn’t show and he did just fine.  Peter handled all of the required techniques and showed he has gained a good understanding of the techniques and names in just a few short months.  His randori showed a lot of good mat usage and he moved very well.  Way to go Peter!!

David tested next for Yonkyu.  Right away you could see he has made a quantum leap as he was well connected to uke from his center.  He moved in a very controlled and unrushed manner that was a joy to watch.  David easily handled all of the required techniques and plenty of extra ones that he just moved through like he has known them all of his life.  David’s randori was also quite nice in that he did not get hurried or rushed, while maintaining the same level control for the entire exercise.  Way to go David! All of the consistent practice is showing!!

Finally, Gilbert tested for Sankyu.  Gilbert did an outstanding job, allowing his center to lead each movement.  He moved quickly, but with purpose on each technique.  He performed one nikyo ura movement, that was simply spectacular.  It must have caught him by surprise as well because he got a little lost following thinking “WOW that was awesome”.  Well, it was awesome as was the entire test.  Way to go Gilbert on a job well done!!

Congratulations to all of the kyu test candidates on three really great tests.  Thanks to everyone for supporting the testing and the ukemi.  Thanks to all of our senior students as well for helping the candidates prepare for their kyu tests.

Following the tests we all went to Freebirds for some pretty large burritos.  It was good food and great fun.  It is rumored that Stephen Hughes ate a whole super huge burrito by himself.  I think the burrito itself weighed about 8 pounds.  Both of his legs were full following that meal.  I got full just thinking about all of that burrito for one person.

Pictures coming soon…