This Saturday (16 Sept), will be exam time for some of our white, green and brown belts. It’ll go by faster than one would imagine. Please show up on time or earlier, if possible. I plan on being there by about 08:40 am. This way, we can finish sweeping, placing down the position tape and answer any last minute questions anyone may have.

I intend to have sempais James and Doreen help me with grading on the exam (six eyes is better than two). Sempai Wes (recovering from back surgery) is standing by to help with any brand new beginners out by the grill area. For those of you who are just watching… please take this opportunity to learn about how you might do even better, the next time you take an exam (a strong spirit and loud kiai are very important).

We’ll start right at 09:00 am, have a quick warm-up, and commence with the exam. Don’t forget, during exam time, the kata is done facing in a different direction (towards the left of where we normally face), so try not to get mixed up in your orientation, especially when you finish. After the exam, we will continue with general training for all who are able to stay.

For secular dojos, exams (usually every three months or so) are also a source of additional revenue and the exam cost typically starts at about $15 going up to as much as hundreds of dollars at the dan level. For our ministry, it’s merely a source of personal growth and challenge, a chance to see how one does under mild pressure, and a way to add focus/objectives to weekly training. We have recently instituted a $5 exam fee, to be used towards helping defray the cost of future ministry parties or get-togethers. If you do pass your exam and achieve a new color of belt, the fee also helps to defray the cost of your new belt!

See you folks early on Saturday