DAN EXAM (KATA) January 31, 2015
HSK members have not witnessed a dan exam for the past four years, and there's a very good reason why -- it is SUPER DIFFICULT!!! HSK's dan exam is not only a test of technique proficiency, it is a test of strength ... strength of the body, but more importantly, strength of the MIND and HEART! Our 10 dan candidates have driven themselves to their limits in preparing for the kata portion of this exam, scheduling an additional five trainings besides their three-times-a-week workouts. This is definitely NOT a test for those weak of mind, spirit, or heart.
CHALLENGE ACCEPTED!! (from left front) Senpai Tracy Reynolds, Sensei, Senpai Eloise Aguiar; (from left back) Brian Dote, Senpai Ray Ikeda, Senpai Alan Reynolds, Senpai Myles Ushio, Senpai Randall Monaghan, Senpai Cliff Lau, Senpai Mel Choy, Senpai Scott Oshiro, and Todd China. |
Calm Before |
The Storm! |
Preparing |
Mentally! |
It's Time! |
Focus! |
Spirit! |
Heart! |
No Turning Back! |
Dig Deep! |
Heian Sandan |
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Hangetsu |
Bassai Dai |
Bassai Dai |
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Enpi |
Kanku Dai |
Jion |
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Kanku Dai |
Tekki Nidan |
Kanku Dai |
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Chinte |
Bassai Sho |
Chinte |
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Bassai Sho |
Tekki Sandan |
Chinte |
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Tekki Sandan |
Chinte |
Heian Sandan |
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Gankaku |
Chinte |
Precision! |
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Heian Godan |
Bassai Sho |
Focus! |
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Gankaku |
Enpi |
Perfect Form! |
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Enpi |
Enpi |
Full Speed Ahead! |
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Kanku Dai |
Heian Yondan |
Heian Godan |
Nijushiho |
Jion |
Our Lead Senpais Shine! |
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Enpi |
Bassai Dai |
Effort! |
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Bassai Sho |
Kanku Dai |
Spirit! |
Form! |
Sochin |
Sochin |