University Taikai, March 2007

We arrived at the venue at 10 o’clock for registration and already there was a friendly atmosphere of anticipation. When we entered the competition hall, our hosts (UCL) were busy warming up, which Edinburgh taisho Lawrence assured us was an early attempt to show their Ki. We all felt this was a good idea and cultivated our own Ki with a vigorous warm-up.

When 11 o’clock came, all clubs bowed in and were introduced to the referees, who had kindly donated their time and experience.

First came the ladies individuals, in which Aya Bamba and Teresa Vokata of Edinburgh University dojo competed and were awarded 2nd and 3rd respectively.

This was followed by the Men’s Kyu grade individuals, which I was (despite my denial) quite nervous of as I was in the first fight. I managed to win this but in my next fight was dominated by a far superior Kendoka. To my glee, one win was enough for me to progress to the second round, which was more than I could ever have expected and it was no surprise when I was knocked out in my first fight.

Next was the Men’s Dan Grade Individuals in which Edinburgh did very well.

Finally, the main event, the Team Competition for which Edinburgh had kindly allowed me to join their B team. Unfortunately we lost our first fight to Oxford’s B team but were consoled when they went on to win. Edinburgh A team kept us constantly on the edge of our seats (or heels, rather) and made it all the way to the final, only to be bested by Oxford’s B team.

Tired but fulfilled we boarded the train at King’s Cross. For me (and I’m sure Edinburgh) the taikai was a huge success. I had had many more fights than I anticipated and had been able to watch the Kendo of students from all over the country. Having watched my fights, the Edinburgh Kendoka were able to give me useful tips for my next fights, which will stay with me. Already I am looking forward to next year’s Taikai, which may be hosted a bit closer to home, by Edinburgh University.

Results are posted at: http://www.kendo.uclu.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php?n=Info.UniTaikai

Mark Bowker, member StAKC