ITS 2009 was a huge success, many new experiences, great friends, excellent facilities and training. SBN Mike and BSBN April were amazing hosts and everyone worked so well together.
With the excellence of ITS 09 now wrapped up we announced ITS 2011 and the host country - SYDNEY, Australia. Now is the time to start planning for October 2011 and the next ITS!
Regards
GM G
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
I still call Australia home
The Price Clan Here:
We are sitting at JFK airport - it is 6:25pm local time and 8:25am in Sydney. So, good morning everyone.
The last 2 nights and 3 days in New York have been fast. I felt like I was travelling in slow motion while all the locals around me were whizzing past. Here is what we did:
Central Park in a horse drawn buggy, Ground Zero, Times Square, Toys R Us, M&M Store, Fifth Avenue, Madison Avenue, Grand Central Station, up the Empire State Building, into the Russian Tea Rooms for a photo, took the Ellis Island Ferry and got close up to the Statue of Liberty and had some great times with Donna, Sir Pete and the boys because they were also in NYC. We stayed in the same hotel and got together for dinner both nights. The first day we arrived Sir Jimmy, Sir Aaron and Sarah were with us before they flew back to LA. They dropped their bags in our hotel room and then we all ran around Times Square quickly picking up souvenirs and admiring Times Square in the pouring rain. Sarah even dropped an I Love NYC T-Shirt in a puddle so she could take home some real NYC mud off the floor.
The first night here we (The Dilonardos and Price Clan) went to Familgias for pizza and then walked in what was the most torrential rain we've all ever stayed out in. Being from England I've seen much worse weather but never been daft enough to walk around in it. But, hey, we only had 2 nights here so Donna and I weren't going to sit in the hotel room watching the rain were we. A girl's gotta shop!
The rooms we had in the Salsbury Hotel were suites. We could have all done with these in Lancaster. In fact ours and Donna's rooms were so big here in NYC that all of the team at the ITS could have fitted in it. Just ask Sir Jimmy. When 7 of us were in the suite it wasn't even crowded.
Donna and the boys left the hotel at 9:15am today for Florida and more theme parks in the lovely warm weather. We left the hotel at 4pm to head to JFK airport. The traffic was mental and we thought we were going to miss our flight. Lucky for us the flight was delayed. Being an airport expert I threw the biggest tantrum and demanded a supervisor .. no, I wouldn't be my own worst nightmare now would I? We've got great seats on QF though .. row 71 of a 75 row aircraft. I'll be sleeping anyway.
Well, it's 'ta-ta' from me for now .. I know I've been a bit of a Blog Hog. I've only got 20 minutes free internet access here at JFK and I had to watch a very painful hotel selling video to get the free access. So, I better go now before I get kicked off it and our flight is being called for boarding. See you in Sydney :)
Jane, Colin, Nick and Sean
We are sitting at JFK airport - it is 6:25pm local time and 8:25am in Sydney. So, good morning everyone.
The last 2 nights and 3 days in New York have been fast. I felt like I was travelling in slow motion while all the locals around me were whizzing past. Here is what we did:
Central Park in a horse drawn buggy, Ground Zero, Times Square, Toys R Us, M&M Store, Fifth Avenue, Madison Avenue, Grand Central Station, up the Empire State Building, into the Russian Tea Rooms for a photo, took the Ellis Island Ferry and got close up to the Statue of Liberty and had some great times with Donna, Sir Pete and the boys because they were also in NYC. We stayed in the same hotel and got together for dinner both nights. The first day we arrived Sir Jimmy, Sir Aaron and Sarah were with us before they flew back to LA. They dropped their bags in our hotel room and then we all ran around Times Square quickly picking up souvenirs and admiring Times Square in the pouring rain. Sarah even dropped an I Love NYC T-Shirt in a puddle so she could take home some real NYC mud off the floor.
The first night here we (The Dilonardos and Price Clan) went to Familgias for pizza and then walked in what was the most torrential rain we've all ever stayed out in. Being from England I've seen much worse weather but never been daft enough to walk around in it. But, hey, we only had 2 nights here so Donna and I weren't going to sit in the hotel room watching the rain were we. A girl's gotta shop!
The rooms we had in the Salsbury Hotel were suites. We could have all done with these in Lancaster. In fact ours and Donna's rooms were so big here in NYC that all of the team at the ITS could have fitted in it. Just ask Sir Jimmy. When 7 of us were in the suite it wasn't even crowded.
Donna and the boys left the hotel at 9:15am today for Florida and more theme parks in the lovely warm weather. We left the hotel at 4pm to head to JFK airport. The traffic was mental and we thought we were going to miss our flight. Lucky for us the flight was delayed. Being an airport expert I threw the biggest tantrum and demanded a supervisor .. no, I wouldn't be my own worst nightmare now would I? We've got great seats on QF though .. row 71 of a 75 row aircraft. I'll be sleeping anyway.
Well, it's 'ta-ta' from me for now .. I know I've been a bit of a Blog Hog. I've only got 20 minutes free internet access here at JFK and I had to watch a very painful hotel selling video to get the free access. So, I better go now before I get kicked off it and our flight is being called for boarding. See you in Sydney :)
Jane, Colin, Nick and Sean
Monday, April 20, 2009
Day 8 Leaving Lancaster
Day 8 morning - NYC Here We Come
From The Price Clan:
Who loves packing? Me neither, but it had to be done because this morning we checked out of our hotel. Raj the hotel manager seemed genuinely sad to see us go. Some people never learn do they?
Some of the team got up really early today, 4am, to head into New York on the Amtrak. Bob, Paul, Jenny and Tara were first to leave at about this time so they could spend a few hours in New York before their early evening flight straight back to Sydney.
We – Sir Jimmy, Sir Aaron, Sir Emanuel, Sarah, Nick, Sean, Colin, Laura and me (Jane) – are on the Amtrak as I type. The wind and rain on the platform was the first hurdle, followed closely by having to lift our suitcases over our heads to put them into the overhead shelves. The lactic acid in my muscles meant that Nick had to lift mine (teenage boys are handy to travel with and they believe anything their Mums tell them!). Jenny and Tara, I don’t envy you having to lift all your extra shopping into the overhead shelvesJ
Lori was leaving with ‘Da Fins’ about 4am. Lori was originally taking the Amtrak, bought a ticket and everything, but when Da Fins turned up at the hotel last night with their hire car – A Cadillac – and a very snide one at that – it was too much for Lori. Amtrak or Cadillac .. hmmm .. no competition or second thought so she hitched a ride with them in style. Got to say Lori, I think you made a smart move on that one.
We have just arrived at Philadelphia Station – it’s 10:45am. The Dilonardos are on the train that leaves Lancaster at 10:30am. The Price and Dilonardo Clan are together in New York for the two nights so that will be good fun. We are staying in the Salsbury Hotel together. Sir Jimmy, Sir Aaron and Sarah are off to LA today for three days of non-stop roller coaster park hopping. Hope it’s warmer in LA for you than it is in New York for us. Laura is heading to Salt Lake City today to spend time with friends of her family until 8th May and then onto a Contiki Mexico tour from 8th to 22nd May. Sir Corey is flying back home today with a bag full of dirty washing for ‘the lady’. Sir Adrian and Mira are also continuing on with their personal travels.
The Amtrak is just like a city rail train. We’ve been at the station now for 15 minutes without announcement so I think now is a good time to try and get a power nap in before Penn Station, New York City! Hold on, now the train is moving backwards and we are freaking out thinking that we should have changed trains. OMG/FOFL/LOL .. Sir Aaron’s not coping. Zah! Sir Jimmy, the ever cool customer is fast asleep and is non the wiser to Aaron and I doing the big eyed stares out the window while Colin knew all along we didn’t have to change because he checked before boarding. Communication is the key!
We left at 9:33am from Lancaster and ‘hopefully’ arrive in Penn Station New York City about 12:10pm just in time for fries and a coke – would you like cheese with that!
Jane J
From The Price Clan:
Who loves packing? Me neither, but it had to be done because this morning we checked out of our hotel. Raj the hotel manager seemed genuinely sad to see us go. Some people never learn do they?
Some of the team got up really early today, 4am, to head into New York on the Amtrak. Bob, Paul, Jenny and Tara were first to leave at about this time so they could spend a few hours in New York before their early evening flight straight back to Sydney.
We – Sir Jimmy, Sir Aaron, Sir Emanuel, Sarah, Nick, Sean, Colin, Laura and me (Jane) – are on the Amtrak as I type. The wind and rain on the platform was the first hurdle, followed closely by having to lift our suitcases over our heads to put them into the overhead shelves. The lactic acid in my muscles meant that Nick had to lift mine (teenage boys are handy to travel with and they believe anything their Mums tell them!). Jenny and Tara, I don’t envy you having to lift all your extra shopping into the overhead shelvesJ
Lori was leaving with ‘Da Fins’ about 4am. Lori was originally taking the Amtrak, bought a ticket and everything, but when Da Fins turned up at the hotel last night with their hire car – A Cadillac – and a very snide one at that – it was too much for Lori. Amtrak or Cadillac .. hmmm .. no competition or second thought so she hitched a ride with them in style. Got to say Lori, I think you made a smart move on that one.
We have just arrived at Philadelphia Station – it’s 10:45am. The Dilonardos are on the train that leaves Lancaster at 10:30am. The Price and Dilonardo Clan are together in New York for the two nights so that will be good fun. We are staying in the Salsbury Hotel together. Sir Jimmy, Sir Aaron and Sarah are off to LA today for three days of non-stop roller coaster park hopping. Hope it’s warmer in LA for you than it is in New York for us. Laura is heading to Salt Lake City today to spend time with friends of her family until 8th May and then onto a Contiki Mexico tour from 8th to 22nd May. Sir Corey is flying back home today with a bag full of dirty washing for ‘the lady’. Sir Adrian and Mira are also continuing on with their personal travels.
The Amtrak is just like a city rail train. We’ve been at the station now for 15 minutes without announcement so I think now is a good time to try and get a power nap in before Penn Station, New York City! Hold on, now the train is moving backwards and we are freaking out thinking that we should have changed trains. OMG/FOFL/LOL .. Sir Aaron’s not coping. Zah! Sir Jimmy, the ever cool customer is fast asleep and is non the wiser to Aaron and I doing the big eyed stares out the window while Colin knew all along we didn’t have to change because he checked before boarding. Communication is the key!
We left at 9:33am from Lancaster and ‘hopefully’ arrive in Penn Station New York City about 12:10pm just in time for fries and a coke – would you like cheese with that!
Jane J
ITS Day 7
Day 7 – Sunday April 19th
The day after the night before.
It seems like only yesterday that we got on the mats for the first time in Lancaster bowing in for what was promised to be an awesome seminar by Master Geoff. Who would have thought that 7 days would pass in the blink of an eye and we would be bowing off the mats and thanking our partners for training by Grandmaster Geoff. Very proud moment for all of us I am sure.
When one door closes another one opens….and the door of Sir Mike’s school in Lancaster was forever open but Sir Mike, Ma’am April and Ma’am Nancy’s hearts were even more open to each and every person on the mats regardless of belt colour, rank or age. Hapkido really does come down to what is inside us and not what’s tied around our waist. That is only one thing I have learnt from this week. My brain is so fried with information overload that I know for me that the saying ‘what goes on in Lancaster stays in Lancaster’ – this is because part of my brain and a few body parts are still reeling from awesomness on the Lancaster Dojang floor J This is a word Sir Aaron would use but his brain might be fried too so I don’t think he’ll notice I’ve used it until he reads this?
Okay, let’s think that stepping on the mats for day 7 might have been a bit of a rest day. No. We were straight into session two of gun defence, followed by Sir Adrian with tips and tools of using non-resistance and redirection to improve locking and throwing. Next we broke for lunch (more fries and even more cheese) and continued on with Grandmaster Geoff sharing the love with cane self defence (apparently Donna and I were oohing and aahing so loud that Sir Adrian thought we were scared? Honestly Sir, you underestimate us because it was cries of amazement at the technique you could hear!!!).
Ma’am April was up presenting takedowns with choke finishes. Sir Emanuel, thanks for loaning me your neck for this session. Grandmaster Geoff was then back with reversals, followed closely by Sir Jimmy with offensive throwing - and this was fun but pretty offensive so late in the week! Just when you recovered from one offensive throw, bang, you’re back staring at the ceiling. You know the feeling. The seminar was rounded off by Grandmaster Geoff with Korean Special Forces.
This is my final ITS 09 Blog. I can hear the sighs of relief now. Oh no, it’s not sorry. We’ve got two nights in New York yet.
Grandmaster Geoff, thank you. It has been an absolute honour to have been on this journey. There are key moments in everyone’s lives that are stand-outs and ITS 09 in Lancaster is right up there.
For the Price Clan as a family within the Hapkido family our feedback is that we are exhausted, beaten, broken, pistol whipped (that gun defence is nuts), sleep deprived, jet lagged and about 10kg heavier than when we left Sydney because of all the fries, coke and cheese (and they’re only side orders). But hey – we’re still smilingJ
See you on the mats – can’t wait for that warm up session with tunnel of death and 250 star jumps?
As Grandmaster Geoff would say – GO ON THEN YOU SLACKERS!!!!!!
The day after the night before.
It seems like only yesterday that we got on the mats for the first time in Lancaster bowing in for what was promised to be an awesome seminar by Master Geoff. Who would have thought that 7 days would pass in the blink of an eye and we would be bowing off the mats and thanking our partners for training by Grandmaster Geoff. Very proud moment for all of us I am sure.
When one door closes another one opens….and the door of Sir Mike’s school in Lancaster was forever open but Sir Mike, Ma’am April and Ma’am Nancy’s hearts were even more open to each and every person on the mats regardless of belt colour, rank or age. Hapkido really does come down to what is inside us and not what’s tied around our waist. That is only one thing I have learnt from this week. My brain is so fried with information overload that I know for me that the saying ‘what goes on in Lancaster stays in Lancaster’ – this is because part of my brain and a few body parts are still reeling from awesomness on the Lancaster Dojang floor J This is a word Sir Aaron would use but his brain might be fried too so I don’t think he’ll notice I’ve used it until he reads this?
Okay, let’s think that stepping on the mats for day 7 might have been a bit of a rest day. No. We were straight into session two of gun defence, followed by Sir Adrian with tips and tools of using non-resistance and redirection to improve locking and throwing. Next we broke for lunch (more fries and even more cheese) and continued on with Grandmaster Geoff sharing the love with cane self defence (apparently Donna and I were oohing and aahing so loud that Sir Adrian thought we were scared? Honestly Sir, you underestimate us because it was cries of amazement at the technique you could hear!!!).
Ma’am April was up presenting takedowns with choke finishes. Sir Emanuel, thanks for loaning me your neck for this session. Grandmaster Geoff was then back with reversals, followed closely by Sir Jimmy with offensive throwing - and this was fun but pretty offensive so late in the week! Just when you recovered from one offensive throw, bang, you’re back staring at the ceiling. You know the feeling. The seminar was rounded off by Grandmaster Geoff with Korean Special Forces.
This is my final ITS 09 Blog. I can hear the sighs of relief now. Oh no, it’s not sorry. We’ve got two nights in New York yet.
Grandmaster Geoff, thank you. It has been an absolute honour to have been on this journey. There are key moments in everyone’s lives that are stand-outs and ITS 09 in Lancaster is right up there.
For the Price Clan as a family within the Hapkido family our feedback is that we are exhausted, beaten, broken, pistol whipped (that gun defence is nuts), sleep deprived, jet lagged and about 10kg heavier than when we left Sydney because of all the fries, coke and cheese (and they’re only side orders). But hey – we’re still smilingJ
See you on the mats – can’t wait for that warm up session with tunnel of death and 250 star jumps?
As Grandmaster Geoff would say – GO ON THEN YOU SLACKERS!!!!!!
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Team Bonding
Here are some photos from Grandmaster Ji's visit.
Grandmaster Ji asked who was the biggest and strongest on the mats and then invited Janne and Aaron to show him how strong they are. Here was the result.
Next was Janne - similar result. Grandmaster was demonstrating that strenght can quickly be taken away
Grandmaster Ji asked who was the biggest and strongest on the mats and then invited Janne and Aaron to show him how strong they are. Here was the result.
Next was Janne - similar result. Grandmaster was demonstrating that strenght can quickly be taken away
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Day 6 - April 18th
Price Clan Here:
The kids had a seminar from 10am and we were at the Dojang at 1pm today. Sleeping in late was appreciated.
The afternoon brought some more cool stuff. Butt Butts, Grazing, Distractions to name a few.
Sir Mike showed us level 1 gun defence. We all had a go of this. Sir Mike, Sir Corey and Ma'am April could spot who had never been exposed to gun defence and travelled the room helping us out. It puts a whole new perspective on 'stop, I don't want to fight'. Should have played more cowboy and indians with the boys when they were younger.
Sir Jimmy demonstrated some distraction kicks. He looks so impressive. As impressive and easy as Sir Jimmy looks the distraction theory is also something that is very useful.
The presentations at dinner tonight were great. The food was good too. Moving around the room it was good talking to everyone and celebrating the achievements of the black belt promotions.
Sir Mike, Ma'am April and Ma'am Nancy have opened their Dohang door and their hearts to us all week without hesitation and I think we got our message across tonight that we are truly grateful to them. Being our first ITS, on behalf of the Price Clan, I feel confident saying that it has been absolutely brilliant. Last day tomorrow.
Before I sign off for tonight we're a bit worried about a Fin man called Paulie coming into our room saying 'I've lost the Fins'. Since I've been typing he's been back three times. He sits on the bed shaking his head and saying it. Very funny. He doesn't have a hotel key but he hasn't quite worked out that the front desk has a master key or that the Fins he is looking for are just down the corridor chatting. Maybe the beer in Lancaster is stronger than in Finland.
Ever seen Dory in Finding Nemo - there's a sequel - it's Paulie in 'Finding the Fins'. I've mentioned before that they are funny, but he took the cake tonight.
Last day tomorrow .. noooo!!!
The kids had a seminar from 10am and we were at the Dojang at 1pm today. Sleeping in late was appreciated.
The afternoon brought some more cool stuff. Butt Butts, Grazing, Distractions to name a few.
Sir Mike showed us level 1 gun defence. We all had a go of this. Sir Mike, Sir Corey and Ma'am April could spot who had never been exposed to gun defence and travelled the room helping us out. It puts a whole new perspective on 'stop, I don't want to fight'. Should have played more cowboy and indians with the boys when they were younger.
Sir Jimmy demonstrated some distraction kicks. He looks so impressive. As impressive and easy as Sir Jimmy looks the distraction theory is also something that is very useful.
The presentations at dinner tonight were great. The food was good too. Moving around the room it was good talking to everyone and celebrating the achievements of the black belt promotions.
Sir Mike, Ma'am April and Ma'am Nancy have opened their Dohang door and their hearts to us all week without hesitation and I think we got our message across tonight that we are truly grateful to them. Being our first ITS, on behalf of the Price Clan, I feel confident saying that it has been absolutely brilliant. Last day tomorrow.
Before I sign off for tonight we're a bit worried about a Fin man called Paulie coming into our room saying 'I've lost the Fins'. Since I've been typing he's been back three times. He sits on the bed shaking his head and saying it. Very funny. He doesn't have a hotel key but he hasn't quite worked out that the front desk has a master key or that the Fins he is looking for are just down the corridor chatting. Maybe the beer in Lancaster is stronger than in Finland.
Ever seen Dory in Finding Nemo - there's a sequel - it's Paulie in 'Finding the Fins'. I've mentioned before that they are funny, but he took the cake tonight.
Last day tomorrow .. noooo!!!
ITS 09 Day 5 - Friday 17th April
The Price Clan here:
Bring it on. I say that because it gets me out of bed in the morning. Day 5 is tinged with a bit of sadness because it's the last day of the week, apart from our weekend seminars.
If you thought I was sore and tired yesterday after reading the blog, here is just some of the things Sir shared with us yesterday:
multiple grabs, working on our belt level techniques, black belt striking, spinning turning back kicks, jumping turning kicks, counter attacks from grabs pushes and locks.
It's great the way one day you feel broken beyond repair and the next you're out there doing (well, trying at least) the techniques I've listed above.
The jumping turning kicks were awesome. Sir Adrian showed Sean how to do these off the wall in the Dojang. Pretty impressive. Sir Jimmy got some oohs and aahs for his impressive flying kicks. You wouldn't ever want to find yourself on the end of one unless you were holding a shield. Lights out.
While I am here can I say that the blacks belts on the mats have been a source of inspiration and knowledge all week. They are like the gift that keeps giving.
The Black Belt Challenge was held this evening so while the Black Belts were all being challenged the rest of the ITS team headed back to the hotel. All bar one of Team Finland are Black Belts. So, this gave us the chance to invite Antii - Brown Belt - into the Price Clan hotel room (we have an open door policy reputation apparently). Antii came out to dinner with us and it was good getting to know him. Our Finland friends are such nice people and not nearly as reserved as they appear on first impression.
The Black Belts came back later and we all stayed up pretty late enjoying each others company and moving from room to room sharing stories from the week, the past, where to next and of course, lots of laughing.
Sir Aaron, 4 elephants in a mini .....
Day 5 brought the reality even closer that ITS 09 is drawing to a close. We have our farewell dinner tomorrow night. Presentations and reflection on the week plus more I am sure.
The kids seminar is on in the morning and adults start at 1pm. Sleep in will be nice. The alarm clocks in our room will still be on just not quite as early.
Did I tell you I've learnt a new language this week from Sarah, Nick and Sean - it's text speak - and I can't even get it right. OMG, LOL, FOFL it's Day 5 of the ITS 09 Seminar in Lancaster Pennsylvania. As I'm typing this I've just been told that it's ROFL....oh well!
Bring it on. I say that because it gets me out of bed in the morning. Day 5 is tinged with a bit of sadness because it's the last day of the week, apart from our weekend seminars.
If you thought I was sore and tired yesterday after reading the blog, here is just some of the things Sir shared with us yesterday:
multiple grabs, working on our belt level techniques, black belt striking, spinning turning back kicks, jumping turning kicks, counter attacks from grabs pushes and locks.
It's great the way one day you feel broken beyond repair and the next you're out there doing (well, trying at least) the techniques I've listed above.
The jumping turning kicks were awesome. Sir Adrian showed Sean how to do these off the wall in the Dojang. Pretty impressive. Sir Jimmy got some oohs and aahs for his impressive flying kicks. You wouldn't ever want to find yourself on the end of one unless you were holding a shield. Lights out.
While I am here can I say that the blacks belts on the mats have been a source of inspiration and knowledge all week. They are like the gift that keeps giving.
The Black Belt Challenge was held this evening so while the Black Belts were all being challenged the rest of the ITS team headed back to the hotel. All bar one of Team Finland are Black Belts. So, this gave us the chance to invite Antii - Brown Belt - into the Price Clan hotel room (we have an open door policy reputation apparently). Antii came out to dinner with us and it was good getting to know him. Our Finland friends are such nice people and not nearly as reserved as they appear on first impression.
The Black Belts came back later and we all stayed up pretty late enjoying each others company and moving from room to room sharing stories from the week, the past, where to next and of course, lots of laughing.
Sir Aaron, 4 elephants in a mini .....
Day 5 brought the reality even closer that ITS 09 is drawing to a close. We have our farewell dinner tomorrow night. Presentations and reflection on the week plus more I am sure.
The kids seminar is on in the morning and adults start at 1pm. Sleep in will be nice. The alarm clocks in our room will still be on just not quite as early.
Did I tell you I've learnt a new language this week from Sarah, Nick and Sean - it's text speak - and I can't even get it right. OMG, LOL, FOFL it's Day 5 of the ITS 09 Seminar in Lancaster Pennsylvania. As I'm typing this I've just been told that it's ROFL....oh well!
ITS 09 Day 4
Price Clan Here:
Day 4 is the day after Grandmaster Ji had gone through the 8 steps, 25 kicks, numerous locks, pushes, throws and left us reeling with excitement from the announcement of Master Geoff to Grandmaster eighth degree.
Pearla, if you are reading this, Emanuel is fine:)
Leg locks, colour belt revision and 1st and 2nd degree black belt techniques. I love it when GM Booth shows us a black belt technique and says that colour belts 'you can try this' but I won't fix it. Then he says 'if you want to be really nasty you could do this'. Yes, I know you are imagining this now and smiling because the next little saying always makes me smile 'go ahead then'!!
Nasty, followed by 'go ahead then' seems to draw Sean to me like a donkey to strawberries (do they have donkies in Australia or am I having flashbacks to holidays in Blackpool, England?).
No matter how many times GM Booth reminds us about the clipboard for signatures sometimes you get so involved in what you're doing on the mats you have a 'doh!' moment because you missed it again. Or is that just me (Jane) and should I even be admitting this on the blog?
I was so sore and tired from the previous 3 days that when multiple grabs were announced I was in there with the best intention. I just remember being grabbed from behind, lifted into the air and spun around like a helicopter. First thought was that I know this is not someone from Moorebank and he was very strong so I gave it my best and ended up back on the floor trying to get out of the hold. My last ditch attempt of pushing a face out of mine revealed it was Sir Mike!
Earlier in the week we had been shown how to breath through the pain and trust me the couple of rounds of multiple grabs had me trying to breath all the time. One of my biggest challenges in multiple grabs is to breath. I think my breathing here in the ITS is exhaustion but it certainly does make me breath because the Fins are good at putting those locks on pretty tight! Working with lots of new people in locks, grabs, falls, throws brings a whole new appreciation of breathing. That is something I'd like to take back to Moorebank with me.
Dinner on Thursday night (Day 4) was takeaway from Maccas because I had to bend my head to the fork - the arms didn't work. Think of a dead arm, or two, and double that numbness to every part of the body - maybe double that again. It wouldn't have been a good look in the restaurant.
Bring on day 5.
I can feel the week getting away. Weather here has turned nice and the location of the Lancaster Dojang is just lovely. There is a huge lake outside with ducks and geese. Some of them were even laughing at GM Booth the other day - some ducks have no respect. Maybe they didn't know GM had been promoted from Master :)
Seriously, the location and facilities are great. There are male and female change rooms. There are lockers and even a washing machine and dryer. Not that any of our Doboks smelt (much).
Raj, our hotel manager, came along to the afternoon and watched a multiple grab session or two. He took home a couple of locks shown to him by GM Booth and apparently his son, who is an American Football player, is thinking of visiting Sir Mike's Dojang to try out Hapkido? Go Raj - spreading the word of Hapkido!
I did mention the weather so that's usually when you run out of things to say .. I don't have that trouble? However, that's all from me for now. See you all soon.
Jane, Colin, Nick and Sean
Day 4 is the day after Grandmaster Ji had gone through the 8 steps, 25 kicks, numerous locks, pushes, throws and left us reeling with excitement from the announcement of Master Geoff to Grandmaster eighth degree.
Pearla, if you are reading this, Emanuel is fine:)
Leg locks, colour belt revision and 1st and 2nd degree black belt techniques. I love it when GM Booth shows us a black belt technique and says that colour belts 'you can try this' but I won't fix it. Then he says 'if you want to be really nasty you could do this'. Yes, I know you are imagining this now and smiling because the next little saying always makes me smile 'go ahead then'!!
Nasty, followed by 'go ahead then' seems to draw Sean to me like a donkey to strawberries (do they have donkies in Australia or am I having flashbacks to holidays in Blackpool, England?).
No matter how many times GM Booth reminds us about the clipboard for signatures sometimes you get so involved in what you're doing on the mats you have a 'doh!' moment because you missed it again. Or is that just me (Jane) and should I even be admitting this on the blog?
I was so sore and tired from the previous 3 days that when multiple grabs were announced I was in there with the best intention. I just remember being grabbed from behind, lifted into the air and spun around like a helicopter. First thought was that I know this is not someone from Moorebank and he was very strong so I gave it my best and ended up back on the floor trying to get out of the hold. My last ditch attempt of pushing a face out of mine revealed it was Sir Mike!
Earlier in the week we had been shown how to breath through the pain and trust me the couple of rounds of multiple grabs had me trying to breath all the time. One of my biggest challenges in multiple grabs is to breath. I think my breathing here in the ITS is exhaustion but it certainly does make me breath because the Fins are good at putting those locks on pretty tight! Working with lots of new people in locks, grabs, falls, throws brings a whole new appreciation of breathing. That is something I'd like to take back to Moorebank with me.
Dinner on Thursday night (Day 4) was takeaway from Maccas because I had to bend my head to the fork - the arms didn't work. Think of a dead arm, or two, and double that numbness to every part of the body - maybe double that again. It wouldn't have been a good look in the restaurant.
Bring on day 5.
I can feel the week getting away. Weather here has turned nice and the location of the Lancaster Dojang is just lovely. There is a huge lake outside with ducks and geese. Some of them were even laughing at GM Booth the other day - some ducks have no respect. Maybe they didn't know GM had been promoted from Master :)
Seriously, the location and facilities are great. There are male and female change rooms. There are lockers and even a washing machine and dryer. Not that any of our Doboks smelt (much).
Raj, our hotel manager, came along to the afternoon and watched a multiple grab session or two. He took home a couple of locks shown to him by GM Booth and apparently his son, who is an American Football player, is thinking of visiting Sir Mike's Dojang to try out Hapkido? Go Raj - spreading the word of Hapkido!
I did mention the weather so that's usually when you run out of things to say .. I don't have that trouble? However, that's all from me for now. See you all soon.
Jane, Colin, Nick and Sean
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Grandmaster Geoff J. Booth, 8th Degree Black-Belt
Behind the scenes:
Dojunim had previously tried to promote Master Booth to 8th degree on his last visit to Australia in 2003. However, a humble Master Booth felt his time had not yet come to accept the illustrious title of "Grandmaster"and he respectfully declined the offer. Thirteen years passed during which Master Booth continued the practice, teaching and promotion of Hapkido.
The Promotion:
At approximately 10am Wednesday morning during a seminar at the Lancaster Family Martial-Arts Centre, Dojunim publicly announced that Master Booth would henceforth be known as Grandmaster. He stated in broken English "...4th degree is Instructor, 5th degree is Head Instructor, 6th degree is Master and 8th degree is Grandmaster. Geoff Booth is now Grandmaster - now he is 8th degree."
The Reaction:
The Reaction:
GM Booth stood in dignified silence during the announcement, slowly taking in the weight of each word. Visibly moved, he accepted his promotion with a respectful "Thank you Sir". Though the students were surprised at the unexpected announcement, they were all delighted as no one doubted that GM Booth's promotion was long overdue. The applause from all present was sincere and sustained.
The Official Ceremony:
The Official Ceremony:
The official presentation was the culmination of certificate presentations to black belts by Dojunim. GM Booth walked up and stood on Dojunim's right. Dojunim initiated the promotion with a hand shake then presented his certificate over to GM Booth. They both held a long and low bow honouring each other's presence. Then the barrage of photos followed.
Congratulations to Sir Geoff J. Booth, a true ambassador, pioneer and Grandmaster of Hapkido.
-SBJ
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Day 3 - meeting Dojunim
Hi all (Moi) , Mira here. First things first...My bag arrived - yay for that. As my previous post was almost a novel, I will try to make this post short & sweet. Today was the Grand Master Ji seminar, what can I say, it was impressive! I think the full meaning of the opportunity to be in a seminar with the founder of Hapkido will dawn on me later on.
Dojunim showed us the basic forms of his style, we did a lot of locking, falling (well, those with bad backs like me did balance breaks), sin moo Hapkido kicks and then counter attack techniques. I walked away with many eye openers, but also it was interesting to see how our style of Hapkido differs from Dojunims style.
Well, a million photographs later the seminar was wrapped up. Some black belts got certificates, it was impressive to see GM Ji make them. It took a while, and looked like a process he takes great pride in, and each certificate gets the same preparation time.
We are half way in the week and I can say that my body is feeling the training...but who's complaining! It's wonderful to be on the mats. Training with the Americans, Aussies and the Finns. I have been taking pictures, and will try to post some before the week is done.
Train hard and keep up the sweat on the mats!
(Random ITS fact: There are no walkways in Lancaster. If you are a pedestrian and want to walk somewhere...prepare to dodge cars and trucks on your way).
Oh yeah, and I clearly failed on the keeping the post short and sweet :)
Dojunim showed us the basic forms of his style, we did a lot of locking, falling (well, those with bad backs like me did balance breaks), sin moo Hapkido kicks and then counter attack techniques. I walked away with many eye openers, but also it was interesting to see how our style of Hapkido differs from Dojunims style.
Well, a million photographs later the seminar was wrapped up. Some black belts got certificates, it was impressive to see GM Ji make them. It took a while, and looked like a process he takes great pride in, and each certificate gets the same preparation time.
We are half way in the week and I can say that my body is feeling the training...but who's complaining! It's wonderful to be on the mats. Training with the Americans, Aussies and the Finns. I have been taking pictures, and will try to post some before the week is done.
Train hard and keep up the sweat on the mats!
(Random ITS fact: There are no walkways in Lancaster. If you are a pedestrian and want to walk somewhere...prepare to dodge cars and trucks on your way).
Oh yeah, and I clearly failed on the keeping the post short and sweet :)
ITS - Day #2
Jane here
Day 2 started with Master Geoff taking us through Brown, Red and Red Provisional techniques. There was a session on double strikes which was great. Sean was very excited and grabbed me quickly to do a few double strikes to my face, neck, pectorals etc. No respect from kids these days! Good thing was the love was returned back to him when it was my turn. Ha!
We have an honorary member of our Hapkido community - BOB - he's a quiet man, sits in the corner smiling, has a great set of shoulders on him and is a snappy dresser (my kind of man but don't tell Colin!).
Shopping was the order of the afternoon. Master Geoff was very kind releasing us to the outlets. Our credit card got its hardest workout ever. In perspective of the shopping, if that effort had been applied on the mats in the afternoon I'd still be recovering.
A few of team Australia and Team Finland stayed behind to do some BJJ with Sir Mike and they said that was really good.
Before we were released to the shops Master Geoff gave us a rundown of Day 3 with Grand Master and that sounded really exciting. The Price Clan was up before the alarm today in anticipation of the day ahead .. should be fantastic!
Day 2 started with Master Geoff taking us through Brown, Red and Red Provisional techniques. There was a session on double strikes which was great. Sean was very excited and grabbed me quickly to do a few double strikes to my face, neck, pectorals etc. No respect from kids these days! Good thing was the love was returned back to him when it was my turn. Ha!
We have an honorary member of our Hapkido community - BOB - he's a quiet man, sits in the corner smiling, has a great set of shoulders on him and is a snappy dresser (my kind of man but don't tell Colin!).
Shopping was the order of the afternoon. Master Geoff was very kind releasing us to the outlets. Our credit card got its hardest workout ever. In perspective of the shopping, if that effort had been applied on the mats in the afternoon I'd still be recovering.
A few of team Australia and Team Finland stayed behind to do some BJJ with Sir Mike and they said that was really good.
Before we were released to the shops Master Geoff gave us a rundown of Day 3 with Grand Master and that sounded really exciting. The Price Clan was up before the alarm today in anticipation of the day ahead .. should be fantastic!
Monday, April 13, 2009
One, Two, Trio .. ITS 2009 goes off with a bang
ONE - Day one of ITS 2009 in Lancaster.
TWO - Hours spent at BJ discount warehouse - Levi jeans are AUD$33..no word of a lie!
TRIO - The restaurant where we were taken by Sir Mike and his team tonight to eat, absolutely brilliant food and the company was good too!
There was a couple of hours of Wii bowling, tennis and boxing after dinner. Mira, you are a bit of a ten pin bowling queen. Sir Aaron, your jab cross is much more impressive in the Dojang than down the pub playing Wii!
Sir Adrian, you asked me what was the highlight of my day today. At the time the jetlag had once again got hold of me and I was struggling to string a sentence together. Now, when I should be sleeping I'm blogging and know what it was .. For the first time ever I saw gun defence. Yes, you read it right, gun defence for Team USA. That was a highlight for me. When I saw Sir Corey practising having a pistol in his back to disarming the offender and then turning the gun back on the person attacking, I knew this dream of being in the US was real...scary real :)
The knockouts that Master Geoff did today was something I will remember for a long time. From Sir Emanuel smiling while being knocked out to Paul snoring (glad you're sharing with him Bob). It really was the most interesting thing I've seen before.
This is only day one and it was filled with wonder (that my dobok still fits me), laughter, great training, lovely food, great training, shopping and the anticipation of more great training ahead of me.
It is 11:16pm here on Monday night and 1:16pm on Tuesday afternoon in Australia. Maybe that is why I can't sleep.
Hope everyone is well back in Moorebank, Hurstville and Parramatta.
That's all for now ... Jane
(the rest of the Price Clan are all fast asleep!).
TWO - Hours spent at BJ discount warehouse - Levi jeans are AUD$33..no word of a lie!
TRIO - The restaurant where we were taken by Sir Mike and his team tonight to eat, absolutely brilliant food and the company was good too!
There was a couple of hours of Wii bowling, tennis and boxing after dinner. Mira, you are a bit of a ten pin bowling queen. Sir Aaron, your jab cross is much more impressive in the Dojang than down the pub playing Wii!
Sir Adrian, you asked me what was the highlight of my day today. At the time the jetlag had once again got hold of me and I was struggling to string a sentence together. Now, when I should be sleeping I'm blogging and know what it was .. For the first time ever I saw gun defence. Yes, you read it right, gun defence for Team USA. That was a highlight for me. When I saw Sir Corey practising having a pistol in his back to disarming the offender and then turning the gun back on the person attacking, I knew this dream of being in the US was real...scary real :)
The knockouts that Master Geoff did today was something I will remember for a long time. From Sir Emanuel smiling while being knocked out to Paul snoring (glad you're sharing with him Bob). It really was the most interesting thing I've seen before.
This is only day one and it was filled with wonder (that my dobok still fits me), laughter, great training, lovely food, great training, shopping and the anticipation of more great training ahead of me.
It is 11:16pm here on Monday night and 1:16pm on Tuesday afternoon in Australia. Maybe that is why I can't sleep.
Hope everyone is well back in Moorebank, Hurstville and Parramatta.
That's all for now ... Jane
(the rest of the Price Clan are all fast asleep!).
Lori here
Enjoyed the techniques using the belt! I think that was awesome!
Dinner at the Trio was great and fun too!
Dinner at the Trio was great and fun too!
Day 1
Quick report on day 1 of the ITS,
It was a fun filled day of revision white to blue - everybody comfortable with the go at your own pace decorum.
Then for some fun topics, Master Geoff demonsatrating knock out strikes/chokes on brave volunteers, and belt defence techniques for all to try, colour belts not doing the throws attached at the end....one day...
Then tonight we had a delicious (healthy too) feast, Sir Mike hooked up for us at the local, and some lucky sports stayed on to play games on Wii BIG SCREEN! some hilarious boxing rounds trying to show off..or just pride -Laura
It was a fun filled day of revision white to blue - everybody comfortable with the go at your own pace decorum.
Then for some fun topics, Master Geoff demonsatrating knock out strikes/chokes on brave volunteers, and belt defence techniques for all to try, colour belts not doing the throws attached at the end....one day...
Then tonight we had a delicious (healthy too) feast, Sir Mike hooked up for us at the local, and some lucky sports stayed on to play games on Wii BIG SCREEN! some hilarious boxing rounds trying to show off..or just pride -Laura
Newsflash!!! Sir Jimmy crushed during 4th degree Ki training
When good techniques go bad!!! Don't try this one at home, kids!
As part of special 4th degree training, here we see Sir Jimmy attempt the Ki Lift on a car in a Lancaster car park. Obviously still jetlagged, Sir Jimmy was able to lift the car a few inches off the ground but was subsequently crushed under its weight, losing the use of both legs.
Luckily Master Geoff was on hand to apply Ki Healing and restore Sir Jimmy to full function.
In an exclusive interview later, Sir Jimmy commented "I tried as hard as I could... but it was too heavy".
Master G. gave the following comment:
"You cannot judge an object by its size. Do or do not - there is no try. He is not yet one with the force."
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Goodbye Disneyland
From Jane - Easter Sunday 12th April 2009, Lancaster Pennsylvania
Yesterday was a full day of roller coasters, 3D presentations and freefalling. A group of us - Colin, Nick, Sean, Sarah, Jenny, Tara, Aaron and myself headed off to California Land which is the part of Disneyland that has some mental roller coasters and scary rides. It was good to go with a group because not all of us coped with all of the rides. Our day started off at Denny's for breakfast and that in itself was an adventure because we could just order toast and coffee, much to the dismay of our waitress who was really trying to push cheese and fries with that! Then it was off for 12 hours of none stop rides, screams, more screams, churros (12 inch long cinnamon donuts) and a real soaking on the white water rapid ride. The evening was kicked off by a visit to one of my wish list items - The Disneyland Teacups! It was awesome for me, and very kind of the rest of the group to help me fulfil one of my dreams, it could even have been a little embarrassing for them but all part of the experience!. As you can see from the photos Colin proves Disneyland is the 'happiest place on earth'. We went on that many roller coasters that when I sat on the plane this morning and shut my eyes to try and sleep I was in Space Mountain all over again. The flight was a quiet one and I think most of us slept. Then it was nice to see Mira meet up with her friends from Finland in JFK airport. After that we all boarded two mini buses and headed out to Lancaster. The drive was about 3 and a half hours and our bus had some sneaky snorers on the back. I couldn't work out if it was Jenny, Luke or Jacob snoring but someone definately was! At the hotel it was nice to see Master Geoff, Sir Corey and it was a good feeling to know that we'll be on the mats tomorrow and the feeling of the whole purpose of our visit got the adrenalin going again. Then it was off to Maccas (as you do at 10:30pm at night). I'm sure it's going to be an exciting week ahead of us and great to work off the junk food that has been the order of the day so far. Who would deny a girl one last Maccas before a week of hard training? Surely not you? Okay it's off to sleep now because I think it's getting late and training starts at 8:30am tomorrow......aahh
Yesterday was a full day of roller coasters, 3D presentations and freefalling. A group of us - Colin, Nick, Sean, Sarah, Jenny, Tara, Aaron and myself headed off to California Land which is the part of Disneyland that has some mental roller coasters and scary rides. It was good to go with a group because not all of us coped with all of the rides. Our day started off at Denny's for breakfast and that in itself was an adventure because we could just order toast and coffee, much to the dismay of our waitress who was really trying to push cheese and fries with that! Then it was off for 12 hours of none stop rides, screams, more screams, churros (12 inch long cinnamon donuts) and a real soaking on the white water rapid ride. The evening was kicked off by a visit to one of my wish list items - The Disneyland Teacups! It was awesome for me, and very kind of the rest of the group to help me fulfil one of my dreams, it could even have been a little embarrassing for them but all part of the experience!. As you can see from the photos Colin proves Disneyland is the 'happiest place on earth'. We went on that many roller coasters that when I sat on the plane this morning and shut my eyes to try and sleep I was in Space Mountain all over again. The flight was a quiet one and I think most of us slept. Then it was nice to see Mira meet up with her friends from Finland in JFK airport. After that we all boarded two mini buses and headed out to Lancaster. The drive was about 3 and a half hours and our bus had some sneaky snorers on the back. I couldn't work out if it was Jenny, Luke or Jacob snoring but someone definately was! At the hotel it was nice to see Master Geoff, Sir Corey and it was a good feeling to know that we'll be on the mats tomorrow and the feeling of the whole purpose of our visit got the adrenalin going again. Then it was off to Maccas (as you do at 10:30pm at night). I'm sure it's going to be an exciting week ahead of us and great to work off the junk food that has been the order of the day so far. Who would deny a girl one last Maccas before a week of hard training? Surely not you? Okay it's off to sleep now because I think it's getting late and training starts at 8:30am tomorrow......aahh
Saturday, April 11, 2009
L.A has been GOOD!
After the long flight, (poor Mira, there had to be one) everybody went to a diner and enjoyed some huge American servings of burgers and buckets of salad, good value!
Instead ofdisneyland or Hollywood I enjoyed some shopping at good old Westfields and just admiring the size difference of most of the cars here. (they're fat cars)!
Some very friendly students drove quite a little way to pick us up to meet and train with GM Kim on Saturday, and i quote "Kangaroo hapkido is ok". We were then told by 3rd degree Ma'am Sharon that was quite a compliment actually, if we sucked he wouldn't have said anything. -she didnt say that last part exactly..
Alot of friendly blackbelts showed to train with, and yes we have the same principles, just techniques from someone elses interpretation. I made some kickdefence takedowns work, and we were showed groin stikes and butt kicks, which the colour belts could do to our blackbelt partners.
It was great to see similar stuff to back home and just get fluid motion working.
Awesome time, very looking forward to ITS week!
-Laura
Instead ofdisneyland or Hollywood I enjoyed some shopping at good old Westfields and just admiring the size difference of most of the cars here. (they're fat cars)!
Some very friendly students drove quite a little way to pick us up to meet and train with GM Kim on Saturday, and i quote "Kangaroo hapkido is ok". We were then told by 3rd degree Ma'am Sharon that was quite a compliment actually, if we sucked he wouldn't have said anything. -she didnt say that last part exactly..
Alot of friendly blackbelts showed to train with, and yes we have the same principles, just techniques from someone elses interpretation. I made some kickdefence takedowns work, and we were showed groin stikes and butt kicks, which the colour belts could do to our blackbelt partners.
It was great to see similar stuff to back home and just get fluid motion working.
Awesome time, very looking forward to ITS week!
-Laura
GM Kim - Picture Update
Hi all
Here are some pictures of Team Australia training in LA with Grandmaster Kim which go with the previous blogpost 'Arrival and meeting GM Kim'.
GM Kim giving us his gift in a breathing exercise
GM Kim, Master Kim and Team Australia
Grandmaster Kim (middle) is a 9th degree in Hapkido whose style is named 'Jang Mu Wan'. Master Kim is standing on the right of the picture is a 6th Degree and first son of GM Kim.
Here are some pictures of Team Australia training in LA with Grandmaster Kim which go with the previous blogpost 'Arrival and meeting GM Kim'.
GM Kim giving us his gift in a breathing exercise
GM Kim, Master Kim and Team Australia
Grandmaster Kim (middle) is a 9th degree in Hapkido whose style is named 'Jang Mu Wan'. Master Kim is standing on the right of the picture is a 6th Degree and first son of GM Kim.
Arrival and Meeting Grandmaster Kim
Hello, Mira here. Here we are in L.A. Trip so far has been pleasant, flight was long, but not too long. When we arrived to LAX everyone got their bags - all but one person..me.After speaking to Quantas, with a bit of begging crying and interrogating I found out that my bag has never left Sydney and they will have to a) find it b) stick it on a plane to LA c) deliver to me. All of this had to happen before 6am Sunday morning when we leave the hotel, so I was a bit nervous to say the least.After a bit of shopping for some bare necessities, we all spent our time relaxing and exploring the area where our hotel is. Some of us also did a tour of downtown L.A (Hollywood), Universal Studios and Sunset Strip.
Well, today is Saturday and some of us had arranged to train with Grandmaster Kim. We were meant to be picked up at 1.15pm, and some of us were a bit lucky to wake up in time as jet lag had caught up with some people (some rooms didn't get up until 12.30pm). Sir Mike and Ma'am Sharon drove up to the hotel and so the journey began to meet the GM Kim.
Upon arrival the first impression to me was that Gran Masters dojang is not much different from our dojang (size wise). On the sidelines we saw his Black belts in uniform waiting for us (that was a nice surprise that he had arranged his black belts to train with us). Then we were ushered to the ladies change room and a few nervous words were spoken as we were changing. Everyone was looking forward to the training.Grandmaster Kim was an old Korean gentleman who looked pretty much what I expected him to look like. He had a very interesting sense of humour, and some techniques also had interesting names. I was one of the lucky colour belts who got a black belt training partner.
I found that even though we have many differences in our way of doing things, what lies beneath and what the art is based on is the same (no resistance, water theory etc.) so it was fairly easy to pick up the techniques he showed us. He also asked Sir Jimmy (as the most senior belt) to demonstrate his Hapkido skills. I was smiling as my Black Belt partner was admiring openly some of Sir Jimmy's techniques. We also received some tips on breathing techniques, women's self defence (it took a while to explain that we don't teach self defence separately for ladies, but they are the same for everyone).
After the training was over, time for some photos and then a life saving Korean dinner at the restaurant owned by GM Kim's son (why lifesaving you may ask? well....it's not hamburgers and bacon or any fast food).
Next post from Lancaster PA, once the ITS kicks off.
Can't wait! Booyakasha!
[Update: See next blogpost with pictures in the 'GM Kim Update']
Well, today is Saturday and some of us had arranged to train with Grandmaster Kim. We were meant to be picked up at 1.15pm, and some of us were a bit lucky to wake up in time as jet lag had caught up with some people (some rooms didn't get up until 12.30pm). Sir Mike and Ma'am Sharon drove up to the hotel and so the journey began to meet the GM Kim.
Upon arrival the first impression to me was that Gran Masters dojang is not much different from our dojang (size wise). On the sidelines we saw his Black belts in uniform waiting for us (that was a nice surprise that he had arranged his black belts to train with us). Then we were ushered to the ladies change room and a few nervous words were spoken as we were changing. Everyone was looking forward to the training.Grandmaster Kim was an old Korean gentleman who looked pretty much what I expected him to look like. He had a very interesting sense of humour, and some techniques also had interesting names. I was one of the lucky colour belts who got a black belt training partner.
I found that even though we have many differences in our way of doing things, what lies beneath and what the art is based on is the same (no resistance, water theory etc.) so it was fairly easy to pick up the techniques he showed us. He also asked Sir Jimmy (as the most senior belt) to demonstrate his Hapkido skills. I was smiling as my Black Belt partner was admiring openly some of Sir Jimmy's techniques. We also received some tips on breathing techniques, women's self defence (it took a while to explain that we don't teach self defence separately for ladies, but they are the same for everyone).
After the training was over, time for some photos and then a life saving Korean dinner at the restaurant owned by GM Kim's son (why lifesaving you may ask? well....it's not hamburgers and bacon or any fast food).
Next post from Lancaster PA, once the ITS kicks off.
Can't wait! Booyakasha!
[Update: See next blogpost with pictures in the 'GM Kim Update']
Downtown L.A., Hollywood and Beverley Hills
Day2: The Price Clan here: After a slow and late start to day 2 a few of us got together and decided to tour downtown L.A.,Hollywood and Beverly Hills. We started at Universal Studios (see pic) which is very like Fox studios in Sydney only bigger
(wonder where Fox got that idea from?). There were lots of shopping opportunities and Sir Emanuel was very excited to find a
full sized Marilyn Monroe made entirely from Jelly Beans (see pic). After a coffee we moved on to downtown L.A. where we
went to Grauman's Chinese Theatre and the Hollywood walk of fame, this is where all the stars names are on the sidewalk and
some famous hand and footprints. The oldest set of prints we found was The Marx brothers 1937. There are some very colourful
locals in this area and Jane was being mimicked by one of the them (see pic). We went to the place where the Oscars are held
and got a nice view of the Hollywood sign in the background (see pic). We then went to a place called "The Farmer's Markets
for Dinner and walked around The Grove. Finally we took a drive around the stars homes, saw Arnie's house, Bob Hopes old home
and took a drive down Rodeo Drive.BTW: Our room is the only room that can access the wireless Internet so the posts to the blog have been delayed.
Friday, April 10, 2009
ITS update from Sarah B, Sir A and SBJ - Day #2
Students,
It's day two in LA. So far we've smashed all the rides in Disnley land and California land except the Indiana jones ride which we'll tackle on our way back. We are all looking forward to training and sweating off the grease.
Hope you're all training your guts off.
-Sarah B, Sir A and SBJ
It's day two in LA. So far we've smashed all the rides in Disnley land and California land except the Indiana jones ride which we'll tackle on our way back. We are all looking forward to training and sweating off the grease.
Hope you're all training your guts off.
-Sarah B, Sir A and SBJ
The flight and first thoughts - again
It's Donna here, we had a good flight, the three boys Paul, Luke and Jacob really enjoyed all the movies and games available on the flight. They only left their seats twice during the whole 14 hour flight!
We got to our hotel just before noon and only one of the rooms were ready. Lucky for us all Sir Adrian, Sir Emmanuel and Mira let us put 19 peoples bags in their rather small room and off we all went exploring.
The Bag Room
Ladies Team Lunch
Sir Peter and our boys decided to go straight into Disneyland and battle the queues for some rides. Sir Peter and Luke lined up for 45 minutes to go on the Indiana Jones ride only to be told it had broken down and wouldn't be reopening again that night.
We got back to our room around 11.00 last night as as at now (midday) Sir Peter and the boys are still asleep. When they wake up we plan on going back into Disneyland and maybe even tackle California Adventures.
We got to our hotel just before noon and only one of the rooms were ready. Lucky for us all Sir Adrian, Sir Emmanuel and Mira let us put 19 peoples bags in their rather small room and off we all went exploring.
The Bag Room
Ladies Team Lunch
Sir Peter and our boys decided to go straight into Disneyland and battle the queues for some rides. Sir Peter and Luke lined up for 45 minutes to go on the Indiana Jones ride only to be told it had broken down and wouldn't be reopening again that night.
We got back to our room around 11.00 last night as as at now (midday) Sir Peter and the boys are still asleep. When they wake up we plan on going back into Disneyland and maybe even tackle California Adventures.
The fun on the flight and first thoughts
April 10, 2009 9:26 AM
It's Jane here ... it's 9:19am local time on Good Friday (2:19am) on Saturday in Sydney. That in itself is confusing already but to say I'm having a fantastic time is all you need to know so far. The flight was okay and from all accounts we all got a bit of sleep sometime throughout the 14 hours. Sean even slept some of the time with his head on the food tray but most of it was with his head in Nick's lap and his feet over me but he swears he didn't sleep! Very funny! Just going to try for a coffee in the hotel restaurant because we've just woken up and I'll be back to post more. I had the alarm set at PM instead of AM thanks to a spot of jetlag and too much junk food yesterday. Wonder if Mira's bag has turned up today, it was the only one that didn't come off the flight. Sir Adrian, Mira, Colin and myself took a short hour stroll to Target so Mira could get some essentials.
April 10, 2009 9:26 AM
Colin said...
It's Colin this time: The 14 hour flight from Sydney to L.A. was pretty good although someone did throw up on Sir Emmanuel during some turbulence in the night. I had 2 sleepy gels on the plane and slept most of the way. At L.A. airport we bid farewell to Sir Yash, Bob and Paul as they went their own way for the weekend. Mira's bags never made the journey and we are hopeful that they will turn up but last report from the airline said they hadn't found them. Our Hotel is across the road from Disneyland's main gate and first up we all went for a big feed in IHOP - and I do mean 'BIG' feed. The Dilonardo Clan, Sir Jimmy, Sir Aaron and Sarah have all ventured inside Disneyland to experience queueing U.S. style. Our Clan, Jenny, Tara, Lori, Laura and Mira wandered around downtown Disney like jet-lagged zombies for a few hours. It is Friday morning and today's plan is to head for Hollywood Boulevard and maybe see if Disney really is the 'Happiest Place on Earth'.
It's Jane here ... it's 9:19am local time on Good Friday (2:19am) on Saturday in Sydney. That in itself is confusing already but to say I'm having a fantastic time is all you need to know so far. The flight was okay and from all accounts we all got a bit of sleep sometime throughout the 14 hours. Sean even slept some of the time with his head on the food tray but most of it was with his head in Nick's lap and his feet over me but he swears he didn't sleep! Very funny! Just going to try for a coffee in the hotel restaurant because we've just woken up and I'll be back to post more. I had the alarm set at PM instead of AM thanks to a spot of jetlag and too much junk food yesterday. Wonder if Mira's bag has turned up today, it was the only one that didn't come off the flight. Sir Adrian, Mira, Colin and myself took a short hour stroll to Target so Mira could get some essentials.
April 10, 2009 9:26 AM
Colin said...
It's Colin this time: The 14 hour flight from Sydney to L.A. was pretty good although someone did throw up on Sir Emmanuel during some turbulence in the night. I had 2 sleepy gels on the plane and slept most of the way. At L.A. airport we bid farewell to Sir Yash, Bob and Paul as they went their own way for the weekend. Mira's bags never made the journey and we are hopeful that they will turn up but last report from the airline said they hadn't found them. Our Hotel is across the road from Disneyland's main gate and first up we all went for a big feed in IHOP - and I do mean 'BIG' feed. The Dilonardo Clan, Sir Jimmy, Sir Aaron and Sarah have all ventured inside Disneyland to experience queueing U.S. style. Our Clan, Jenny, Tara, Lori, Laura and Mira wandered around downtown Disney like jet-lagged zombies for a few hours. It is Friday morning and today's plan is to head for Hollywood Boulevard and maybe see if Disney really is the 'Happiest Place on Earth'.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Team Australia
Here is the first photo of Team Australia in our New Team Jackets for the ITS 2009. Everyone is looking forward to the trip to the USA and keen to meet our Hapkido family from around the world.This is the team who will be updating this blog with our experiences as we travel through LA then onto Lancaster PA for a fabulous week at the International Training Seminar.
Regards
Team Oz
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