There’s a lot of talk in the media at the moment about gold medals. Olympic gold medals to be precise. The word ‘Olympic’ is something of a swear word in many kendo circles around the globe, and the concept of Kendo being involved in the Olympics is a much argued and rather controversial subject. Either way, at present, Kendo is not an Olympic sport and is probably unlikely to become one in the near future. However, we do have a contest more important to us than the Olympic Games – you guessed it! The World Kendo Championships!
In just 1 year’s time, the most important Kendo tournament will be held again in Sao Paulo. As a National Team member the very words ‘World Kendo Championships’ send a little tingle down my spine.
I first witnessed the WKC when the 12th tournament came to Glasgow in 2003. I was new to Kendo then, and was simply in awe of the sight that was before me! The members of Team GB were like minor kendo celebrities to me, and it was at that championship that I decided to make becoming a member of that team my goal.
Fast forward 3 years and I was landing in Taipei, as one of the fresh, inexperienced members of the team. The experience of witnessing that taikai became something I will never forget. For the 12 previous tournaments, spanning 36 years, team Japan had won every single gold medal. But this year in an unexpected turnaround the Japanese men’s team was defeated in the semi finals by the Americans. And eventually Korea, Japans biggest rival throughout the years, became the first ever non-Japanese tournament champions.
However, although this made the news, it was probably not the most important thing that arose from these championships, instead as always, The World Kendo Championships played a monumental role in the international development of Kendo. Because Kendo, really is about interacting with others, a kind of universal language with which we can converse and form strong friendships. And for me, the WKC gave a chance to challenge my own ambition, and in my own way I have won my ‘gold medal’ albeit metaphorically. How will you win yours?
Here’s to hoping the team finals produces some better kendo than last time. OK I wasn’t there and I heard the atmosphere was electric and everything, but on video the actual kendo was certainly not inspiring. Not to this old codger anyway. b
Great post Andy, looking forward to more of this sort of thing!
The countdown has begun alright!