Back to back medals baby!

But that's not what the Shorinji Kempo Taikai (tournament) was about of course. It's not about winning, it's about working hard to accomplish a goal, and feeling a sense of accomplishment... and winning 3 medals again! I mean, I really shouldn't brag, but it's my blog so I shall continue to say that I was very pleased and surprised to win in all 3 categories that I entered in. I also have to thank all my friends and family who came out to support me and watch and cheer. It was really great to see friendly faces in the audience.


The main difference in this year's Taikai was that my dojo, the Shorinji Kempo New York City Branch hosted the 3 day event which included a study session as well as the big event. Helping to host an event with over 100 participants from all over the U.S. and Canada and special guests from Japan was quite an experience. I don't think I've ever been so stressed and filled with anxiety and excitement in my life. Ever. Did I mention I was asked to M.C. the whole event? I have also never worked so much on so little sleep. I believe Scott can attest to a slight mental breakdown the night of the last day.


But we did it and people were happy and we learned a lot about how to organize an event and what mistakes not to make again (order more vegetarian meals, who knew they were such an angry bunch), and definitely felt a sense of accomplishment. And did I mention I won some medals?

A note: I think I changed something before on my comments preferences and I just noticed that I hadn't published a bunch of them. Apologies! And thank you for reading. I was so glad to see people are still reading! I'll try to be more consistent with the posts for your reading pleasure...