Basingstoke Kendo Club

Introduction

Basingstoke Kendo club no longer meets. However, the instructors do teach and train at other Dojo's in the area (e.g., Reading, Guildford, Mytchett, and Heathrow).

We try our best to make visitors feel welcome and answer any questions you may have. Beginners should come and watch a class or join in special beginners courses throughout the year.

Kendo can be practised safely by young and mature students and provides many benefits to those who practice it, so please either e-mail us for more information or come along to the club and talk to us.

It`s never too late to begin Kendo.

Instructors

Basingstoke is lucky to have three very senior UK Kendoka. Who have all represented their country in International Kendo matches and are now International referees.

John O'Sullivan (6th Dan) lived and practiced in Japan.

Geoff Salmon (Renshi, 6th Dan) is currently coach of the national team, has lived and practiced in Japan for several years and is fluent in Japanese.

All instructors are insured to teach Kendo.

Practice

The club used to meet at the Richard Aldworth School Western Way, Basingstoke.

Other local clubs

The Reading Kendo Club is run by the same instructors and meets on a Monday at the YMCA. The club contact is the same as for Basingstoke.

All members of the Basingstoke club also practice regularly at the Mytchett club and the Mumeishi club (near Heathrow airport). Both of these clubs hold beginner classes.

Armour

To start practicing Kendo only a Shinai is required. These cost between £20-£25 and are usually available on loan for beginners.

The club is lucky to have direct contact with Mr Kawato, a member of Kendo-gu Syokunin-kai (Japan Kendo Bogu Craftsmen's Association). Enabling us to buy Kendo armour from a man who makes it in his own workshop.

Contact

John O'Sullivan Tel: 07973 223943 john@kendoka.co.uk

British Kendo Association



Last changed 5 August 2004