The BKK English Open
1st place - Danielle Walsh - Open Knockdown
1st place - Charlie Banda
2nd place - Jack Belby
3rd place - Paul Walker
3rd place - Cruz Llewellyn
3rd place - Tudor Constantin
3rd place - Mabli gruffudd-Pritchard
3rd place - Olivia Palfrey
3rd place - Bailey Wheeler
A few unlucky calls but you all held yourself with so much poise on the mat. You all show the true essence of Kyokushin, never giving up, even when it gets tough.
9 places out of 12 competitors is incredible, and you should all be very proud. And for those that didn't place this time - stepping on the mat is one of the hardest things a Karateka will ever do, and we are so happy that you stepped up to the challenge.
So overwhelming proud of everyone.
Congratulations to you all.
OSUAHHHH !!!
Long Service Awards!
A huge congratulations to our Senpai's on receiving their long service awards this week!
This is a new initiative for Barry Kyokushin to recognise the length of time people have been training and dedicating themselves to their club. These certificates and badges were created by us to award our longest serving students for their hard work throughout the years, and show them how much they are appreciated.
The design work was supported and improved by Shihan Cameron Quinn, thank you so much, Shihan!
Congratulations to -
Senpai Rhi - 12 years
Senpai Paul - 11 years
Senpai Seb - 10 years
Senpai Cian - 10 years
Senpai Gareth - 10 years
Here's to the next decade. Osu!!!
Our Fundraiser for LATCH Wales
On Saturday 30th March, Barry Kyokushin held a charity event to raise funds for LATCH - a cancer charity working alongside one of our own kids, Dan Whitcombe, in his cancer battle.
The goal of the day was to complete as many fights as possible without stopping - no water, no resting.
Dan showed up to support all of our juniors and seniors, and it was so lovely to see him. He, and as well as us, were totally blown away by every single one of you who showed up and pushed so far past your limit of endurance.. So many adults completing 50 fights, and so many juniors completing 30. Astonishing.
Dan - we are all in your corner. We are all fighting for you. Keep fighting, kid. OSU!!!
Sum up of 2023
I honestly cant remember a year that we have had so much to celebrate than 2023. Its been a phenomenal year of success after success.
We began the year with a National Grading, where my boys Gareth, Sebastian and Cian all graded to Shodan alongside me taking my Yondan. It was a grading I was meant to take the year before, but didn’t feel ready but knowing I was going to attempt it alongside these boys made me push myself that much harder and they helped me become focused. When we completed the grading and Passed the test it completely filled me with emotion, I took this grading for my students, they deserve to have an instructor who isn’t afraid to continue to progress and show that the path of progression is alive.
It was a real honor to see them achieve their Kuro Obi.
The year then swiftly continued to me visiting Japan and meeting with Hanshi Diago Oishi, a moment I will truly cherish. Hanshi is such a welcoming man and so approachable and kind. A direct student of Sosai and in all the years of his teaching and never altered or changed any of Sosai’s teachings. What we learned from him was exactly how Sosai taught it. We were treated so well and made some fantastic new friends within the organization, it was a trip I will never forget.
We held our Anniversary tournament, a 45 year milestone for the club and a great way of marking the anniversary with a Tournament showing the great skills of our students. Another successful day for Barry Kyokushin.
Following on with the successes we then took a team to compete in the BKK Welsh open in Merthyr.
Our team were outstanding and ranked 3rd in the medal table. It was the first time we had ever competed outside of the organization and I was beaming with pride watching our guys compete and placing so highly too.
We then headed off to Poland to visit our friends and join in with the Polish Summer Seminar where Hanshi’s Uchi Deshi students were the guests, Nayoa and Nayota Sensei’s we had met in Japan earlier in the year and their tuition was outstanding, we trained hard, Partied well into the early hours and forged great solid friendships across Europe and with the Uchi Deshi’s made the connection of Europe and Japan much stronger.
After coming back from here we held our annual summer camp where 50 of us went along to learn Kobudo and Self Defence, another VERY successful camp and a great time had by all.
We then continued with the successes of our tournaments with another So-Kyokushin National Tournament which saw us take 20 x 1st Places, 25 x 2nd Places and 19 x 3rd Places. The day went really smoothly and once again it saw me beaming with pride at how well we had done….But it didn’t stop there, just a few weeks later we took our team down to Crawley for the BKK British Open, one of the biggest Kyokushin tournaments in the UK Calendar.
Our club took some very talented fighters down and really stepped up to the mark with bringing home : 2 x British Champions 2 x 2nd Places and 4 x 3rd places. Placing us 7th out of 41 other dojo’s. It was such a great day for Barry Kyokushin, with the experience of these recent tournaments I see nothing but further successes for us in future tournaments.
But, it didn’t stop there for us. We took a team to the biggest tournament… The World Tournament in Japan. Barry students made up the UK Team to compete in the 2nd So-Kyokushin world tournament in Shizuoka Japan. I’ve coached students in major tournaments before, but never at this level. It was a challenging time on the run up to this very prestigious tournament, knowing how to prepare the competitors took a lot of research and all my knowledge and experiences to help them.
The days were being counted down week after week, hour after hour. Our team prepared well for the tournament, We travelled to Japan for this great event, Outstanding venue and electric atmosphere. Our team competed VERY well. Senpai’s Rhian and Paul were unfortunate not to place this time, however, Senpai Gareth placed 3rd in the Men’s Heavyweight category, a BKKC first for someone placing this high in a World Tournament. But also Danielle placing 1stin the World Friendship Tournament. A truly amazing result for Barry Kyokushin.
During our trip I took our team to visit Sosai’s tomb and even went training at Mitsumine and Sosai’s Honbu dojo, Fulfilling every Kyokushin Karateka’s dreams. The tour of Japan was one that will stay with our team forever, a truly awesome time.
With all that we have done this year its impossible to see how were going to top that off….But we still had to award the Student of the Year award. It’s always a very tough call to make every year, with so many deserving students the process of deciding is long and difficult.
For our Junior Student of the Year, it went to a very deserving Olivia Palfrey, a remarkable young lady who competed and placed in every tournament she’s ever entered, Helps out with the Spartans Classes and with Beginners classes, always jumps at the chance to help others, very respectful and very polite. She’s certainly a student to watch out for in the future.
Our Senior student of the Year we chose Danielle Walsh, Danielle not only won in Japan, and not only has placed in every tournament she has ever entered, and not only is a Spartans instructor helping the future generations of the club but assists in many other area’s in the management of BKKC. It was a much deserved award and we thank her for her support.
On that note, I’d like to finish by thanking my right hand man (woman), Senpai Rhian Evans, without her efforts a lot of what we had planned wouldn’t have happened and a huge thankyou to ALL our members, Parents, Supporters and friends for your unwavering support, Your trust in us and your friendship through 2023.
I’m very excited for what 2024 will bring us…. Tournaments successes, Training Camps for sure, Personal goals being achieved definitely, Challenges and set backs perhaps…but we pull on the strength of our fantastic students to strive for success. We will succeed.
Merry Christmas to you all.
OSU
Sensei Phill.
Students of the Year
Junior student: Olivia Palfrey.
A very successful and dedicated student who has inspired many.
Senior student: Danielle Walsh
World Tournament winner, has gone from quiet shy type to strong (mind and body) determined and inspirational.
It's always tough picking the individuals but these 2 really have stood out and we're all really proud of them.
Congratulations ladies.
Osu
A small but mighty team.
Huge congratulations to our fighters in the 2nd So-Kyokushin World Tournament.
Danielle Walsh placed 1st in her category at the International Goodwill tournament, despite a 10kg weight difference.
Gareth Dutton who placed 3rd in his category at the World Championships. He fought a hard 4 fights.
Senpai Rhian and Senpai Paul were unfortunate to not place but did their best on the mat. Osu!!
The 2023 So-Kyokushin World Tournament
Barry Kyokushin are VERY proud to show our UK Team who will compete in the 2nd SoKyokushin World Tournament in Japan in 4 weeks time.
SENPAI RHIAN EVANS : FEMALE KATA
SENPAI PAUL LAMBERT : VETERAN KNOCKDOWN
SENPAI GARETH DUTTON ; HEAVYWEIGHT KNOCKDOWN
DANIELLE WALSH : FEMALE KNOCKDOWN
SENSEI PHILL SEDGMOND : COACH
Barry Kyokushin are very proud of these international competitors. They are true ambassadors for So-Kyokushin UK.
Best of luck to you all. You've trained hard, go and enjoy this great experience. The team will also be joined by supporters Kerri Husk, Dave Passey and Tracy Humphrey.
OSU
The BKK British Open 2023
We had an amazing day at the British Championships on Saturday. We took up 14 competitors who fought with all their might and showed true Kyokushin spirit! We couldn't be any more proud of how they did.
The results
Tudor Constantin - 1st - British Champion !
Charlie Banda - 1st - British Champion !
Paul Walker - 2nd
Jack Belby - 2nd
Olivia Palfrey - 3rd
Mabli Gruff Pritchard - 3rd
Cruz Llewellyn - 3rd
Danielle Walsh - 3rd
Team results - 7th Place out of 41+ Dojos! We are very pleased at our performance in our 1st BKK British Championships. OSU!
The 2nd So-Kyokushin Invitational Championships
On Saturday 23rd September, Barry Kyokushin Karate Club competed in the 2nd So-Kyokushin UK National Tournament.
We had competitors across the board - in Kata, WUKO, Clicker, Cadet Knockdown, and Knockdown. We were so impressed by how well everyone did. Whether they came away with a trophy, or came away with knowledge, everyone put their best foot forward and tried their very best all day. They showed fantastic attitude on and off of the mat.
Our final trophy count was:
20 x 1st Place
25 x 2nd Place
19 x 3rd Place
Total - 64 trophies!
A special mention to Maya Lewis, who was chosen by the Head Table as the most spirited junior fighter, for the way she shows an exemplary attitude on and off the mat.
Another special mention to Tudor Constantin who came 1st in all 3 of his categories - Kata, Clicker and Cadet Knockdown. A very impressive display!
We are so proud of each and every one of you that competed this weekend. You are all the future of Kyokushin. OSU!
A strong but fervent session
Although the dojo was officially closed onMonday 28th August, a Private session was held for those friends and training partners of Daniel Whitcombe.
Just a week ago, Dan (14) was diagnosed with aggressive bone cancer. He's been preparing all week for his upcoming battle where he has to undergo substantial chemotherapy which will see him out of training for at least 6-7 months and really wanted one last sessions with his club.
Sensei Phill gladly opened the dojo and invited his class to come along and give Dan his wish before he embarks on this courageous battle. The guys did not disappoint, a very strong turn out for Dan from his friends and some of our seniors made time for him too.
A strong session for all, but you could feel the emotion in the dojo, at the end gifts, cards, fist bumps (teenage boys don't do emotion lol) and some great photos with him and his friends.
Dan - we are so proud of your attitude towards this. We're here with you every step of the journey.
We'll be keeping everyone up to date with Dan's progress and know we'll see him back in the dojo in the future, to pick up his martial art journey where he left off.
Huge OSU, Dan!!!
So-Kyokushin Poland Summer Seminar 2023
On the weekend of the 9th to 11th of June, while everyone was at home enjoying the wonderful weather we've been having, Shihan Mac and BKKC Instructors, along with Danielle, attended the So-kyokushin Summer Seminar in Sczcecin Poland.
d
The seminar was spectacular, with tuition from Hanshi Oishi's personal students (uchi deshi's) Naoya and Naota Sensei's. It was a real insight to Kata and the way Hanshi Oishi teaches Kata, which is the exact way that Sosai taught.
Learning from the brothers gave a great insight to their lives as Uchi Deshis of Hanshi and how they train in Japan. The 2 day seminar had 6 training sessions and a Dan grade Examination. Along with an amazing Sayonara Party. Our Host Shihan Radosław Husaria and his team worked tirelessly to ensure all had the best time possible.
The seminar was an incredible one and we are already looking forward to the next.
OSU!
BKK WELSH CHAMPIONSHIPS
Yesterday we attended the BKK Welsh Championships in Merthyr Tydfil, the first time stepping our of our organisation to compete in many years. We had 13 competitors entered, and they all faced a tough task to earn some podium positions! After a tough battle for all of them, we came home with 9 trophies!
Olivia Palfrey - 1st
Maddison Hughes - 1st
Paige Phillips - 2nd
Paul Walker - 2nd
Jack Belby - 2nd
Cruz Llewellyn - 3rd
Dan Mickelsen - 3rd
Mabli Gruffudd-Pritchard - 3rd
Danielle Walsh - Novice Knockdown - 3rd!
Harri Evans, Tudor Constantin, Isabelle Woodward and Gareth Dutton were unfortunate not to place (3 x 4th places included), but all fought very hard and with fantastic spirit!
We're so proud of the way you conduct yourselves, your effort, your attitude, and how polite you all are. You're a true image of Kyokushin.
Osu!!
BKKC's 45TH ANNIVERSARY TOURNAMENT
On Saturday 6th May, Barry Kyokushin Celebrated their 45th Year operating and teaching in Barry. They celebrated by holding a Club tournament at the Colcot Sports centre in Barry. 75 Competitors from Barry competed in 4 categories of competition but along with So-Kyokushin guests from Bettws, Bury and as far as Folkstone
The tournament hosted over 90 competitors, and spectators were shown competition from Kata, to Points fighting to Cadet Semi contact and male and female Adult full contact.
Barry Kyokushin is one of the longest running Karate clubs in Wales and THE longest running in the Vale of Glamorgan, started in May 1978 by a then Senpai Richard Males and handed over to a then Senpai Phill Sedgmond in 2012.
Barry students are extremely proud to be in a club with such heritage and history, something that is displayed in the reception of our full-time dojo.
After a Taiko drum start to the tournament students were performing Kata Infront of an audience of 300 people, and in front of Chief Referee Shihan Paul Greenway and So-Kyokushin Branch Chief Shihan Mac Robertson.
After Kata our lower grade juniors competed in light-non contact style of fighting which is used to ease nervous students into competing with very little risk of injury. The category saw some great skills and many first timers placing. The tournament was then interrupted By Barry Kyokushin Deputy Chief Instructor Senpai Rhian, who announced that it was, in fact, Sensei Phill’s birthday the same weekend and had the whole sports hall sign Happy Birthday to him and present him with a very special gift.
The Tournament moved on with more Semi contact fighting in the form of Clicker fighting, more a category for higher graded students who have learned the scoring techniques, this also saw some great fighting from those who competed. After a change of Referee and judges teams the tournament moved on to Cadet Semi Contact, a category with much more contact and referee’s with more experience. These are naturally our bigger categories, over 60 competitors competed in these showing a great level of skill and strength. Drawing close to the end of the categories we then moved onto the Adult Knockdown. We saw the Females fight first. All fighers were complete novices with no experience at all, but what skill and strength shown, incredible demonstration of Kumite. Finally we saw the Men’s Kumite with one Novice and 2 that had experience, The fighters fought very well and many extensions in both Male and Female, so close fights.
After all the bouts and presentations, it wasn’t the end of the day for some. During the fights officials were being monitored by Chief Referee Shihan Paul Greenway. Senpai Rhian Evans, deputy Chief Instructor, who is already a Fully qualified judge was hoping to make the grade to achieve her Associate referee position in preparation for her Full Referee qualification which she would hope to get the following year at other tournament, however, due to her outstanding Job on Cadet Semi Refereeing and Female Knockdown Shihan Paul promoted her to Full Referee Status, making her the First Female Referee in So-Kyokushin and the first Female Referee in Barry Kyokushin history. We also saw promotions for Senpai Gareth Dutton who was promoted to Associate Referee, Senpai Paul Lambert to Judge, Senpai Sebastian Barczewski to Judge, Kerri Husk to Judge and Senpai Cian Willmot to Associate Judge. Barry Kyokushin now hold the highest number of tournament officials in the organization.
We are all very proud of our students, and are deeply grateful to all our dedicated helpers in putting on such a great event and a special thanks to our Guests for coming and helping us celebrate such a tremendous milestone.
Sensei Phill said : “Its been a real honor to lead this club since 2012, my team put in so many hours of hard work and are 100% dedicated to the continued success of Barry Kyokushin. As we celebrate this milestone of 45 years it fills me with pride that we look on to 50th, 60th, 70th and onwards with my team and our hard working dedicated students. Osu”!
Sensei's Visit to Japan
Our Sensei Phill Sedgmond travelled to Japan for training under Hanshi Daigo Oishi, the head of World So-Kyokushin. Sensei made this journey to help develop his knowledge of So-Kyokushin to bring back to the UK. He's been having a fantastic time training under Hanshi, covering Kata, Ido, Kihon and much more.
Over the weekend Sensei attended their national tournament. The first day focused on Kata, and the 2nd day all on Kumite. He said that the standard was exceptional.
Following the tournament, Sensei trained at Hanshi's dojo for a final time before travelling to Tokyo where he paid respect to Sosai at his resting place in Gokukuji Temple, visited Sosai's original Honbu, and absorbed himself in a little bit of Japanese culture.
Sensei Phill says; "Being my 2nd visit to Japan, it once again didn't disappoint. I had more exposure to its wonderful culture and friendly people, which made for a trip that I will never forget. I can't wait to come back in November!"
OSU!
Another one for the History books!
On Sunday 19th March rather than spending time with their mothers 3 Members of Barry Kyokushin and our Chief Instructor Sensei Phill attended the So-Kyokushin UK National Grading held at Honbu Dojo in Barry.
For the past 18 months they have been heavily preparing for this day. Putting in all the hours they can with training at any opportunity given.
Beginning the grading at 10am they were put through a heavy kihon session where Shihan Mac Robertson 6th Dan (So-Kyokushin UK Branch Chief and Principle Examiner) along Shihan Paul Greenway 6th Dan (Executive committee member and National Grading Examiner) scrutinised the candidates. This then swiftly moved onto Ido Geiko where candidates were put through quick fire techniques and combinations onto Ippon Kumite demonstrations of block and counter, from there they went onto fitness and conditioning with Push Ups, Sit up’s and Squats but done in the Unique Shihan Mac way... HARDER than usual.
After a short refreshment break the candidates were back in to perform Kata where EVERY Kata was performed up to the Shodan candidates and then Onwards for Sensei Phill demonstrating his kata’s for Yondan consideration.
A solid demonstration set by everyone showing an exceptionally high standard. Immediately after the Kata section was finished we moved onto the Kumite Test where every candidate completed 20 x 2min rounds of Kumite.
This was a history defining moment for Barry Kyokushin, Not only were our Shodan Candidates successful which made:
Senpai Gareth Dutton the 15th member of Barry Kyokushin to Achieve Shodan.
Senpai Cian Willmot the 16th member of Barry Kyokushin to Achieve Shodan.
Senpai Sebastian Barczewski 17th Member of Barry Kyokushin to achieve Shodan.
But Sensei Phill achieved 4th Dan (Yondan). Making him the very first person in the History of Barry Kyokushin to achieve this grade.
Sensei Phill said: “This was one of the toughest gradings I’ve ever had, but that’s exactly as it should be. Earning your grades properly is what makes for a Strong Kyokushin Karateka. It was a very emotional moment for me seeing my boys step up to the plate the way they did and achieve their Kuro Obi (Black Belts). Senpai Gareth joined the club many years ago and remembers driving the mini bus which took me to a Summer camp where I earned my Shodan, shorly after he joined Barry Kyokushin and hasn’t looked back since. Both Sebastian and Cian joined us when they were 6yrs and 8yrs old, I’ve watched these boys grow into the VERY fine young men that they are today and its so very humbling to see how, no matter what is thrown at them in life and their training they overcome it and move on, that’s Kyokushin. Achieving my Yondan is a momentous occasion, but I did this for my students, they need to see that the path of progression is alive and achievable, you just have to push yourself. Never would I have ever imagined I would be here today at this grade but if my achievements inspire others to push themselves to their limits and beyond, just like my New Senpai’s and I have done then we’ll create some truly inspiring students for the future and some more fine individuals, Osu”.
Deputy Chief Instructor Senpai Rhian said: "It was an absolute pleasure to be able to train these guys for their grading, and to train alongside them on the day. Senpai's Gareth, Cian and Seb are very worthy Shodan's. They handled everything that was thrown at them and never faltered. Sensei Phill showed a remarkable demonstation of Kyokushin Karate, and has set the standards for all future Yudansha. It was an unwavering display from start to finish. Congratulations, guys, I couldn't be more proud, OSU!".
Barry Kyokushin students are very proud of the achievements of our new Senpai’s and Sensei and very much look forward to a great and prosperous future. OSU!
End of Year 2022!
Another year completed and another year full of great memories made. Earlier on in the year we created new history in Barry Kyokushin with the promotion of Senpai Rhian Evans, the clubs very first female Nidan. Something I’m truly proud of.
We also saw the promotion of Senpai Paul Lambert, the 14th Member of Barry Kyokushin to achieve Shodan in its 44 years and my 2nd student that I have promoted from white belt to black belt.
Our Summer camp with Shihan Cameron Quinn was spectacular to say the very least. Shihan Quinn was a name that resonated around Kyokushin worldwide and I would never have thought I’d get to train under him, let alone become friends with him.
We reached out to our European brothers and sisters and made great long-lasting friendships with them. The beauty of Norway and Shihan Bjorn and his great students, then Poland with Sensei Rad and his kindness and generosity. Yes, I really enjoyed visiting these great places.
We held a great tournament, a 1st tournament after covid and the 1st So-Kyokushin National Tournament, it was such a huge success and I’m so proud of how well Barry Kyokushin did but also how they conducted themselves at the tournament. The unwavering support and respect they showed they fellow competitors and club mates - I was truly humbled to see it. I see nothing but further success for us in future tournaments.
As with every year I write one of these, Senpai Rhian and I sit and talk about the year and look back and smile at all we have achieved with Barry Kyokushin. However, it’s the students that make this place what it is. Our juniors are such fun to teach, they have great attitudes and flare, it’s an absolute pleasure to teach them. Our Senior class grew a lot this year and is more like family than a class. The support and assistance they have provided me over the last 12 months is deeply appreciated. I guess all that is left to say is thank you to each and every one of our students, parents and supporters for your continued faith in us and I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and healthy and prosperous 2023.
OSU!
On Saturday September 10th So-Kyokushin UK Hosted their first National tournament in Barry, Wales. This being a closed event still had over 100 competitors attend and showcase their skills to a vast crowed of people and infront of the UK Chief Instructor Shihan Mac Robertson. Barry Kyokushin sent in a large contingent of fighters to test themselves at this event. The tournament venue was electric with cheering and shouting for these great fighters.
Sensei Phill said: "This was a great first tournament for the organisation and a great first tournament for some of our students, the lockdowns have made it very difficult to give our students the competitive edge and on the run up to this tournament we have been training very hard to prepare the students for it. I was so proud of everyone efforts in this event and the results show that we have a strong, competitive student base. I'm very much looking forward to the 45th anniversary tournament in May 2023 where our competitors will once again have the opportunity to shine as they did at the weekend. Well done everyone. OSU" For full details and more images see : https://www.facebook.com/barrykarate
So-Kyokushin UK Summer Camp 2022
On the 29th to the 31st July, members of Barry Kyokushin Karate Club attended the 1st So-Kyokushin UK Summer Camp. 20 adults and 30 kids made their way to Brecon for a fantastic weekend of Kyokushin under the tutelage of Shihan Cameron Quinn of Australia and Shihan Mac Robertson of England.
We had a fantastic weekend covering Kyokushin kihon, kata, ido geiko, weapons training, chokes, grabs, and some fun and games to finish each day for the juniors too.
Sensei Phill did a broad break in front of the camp, which were signed by all the visiting county representatives too.
Everyone had a fantastic time, and can't wait for next year already! OSU!
Celebrating Success !
We held a party after the successes of our recent grading.
Its a regular thing for BKKC Senior members to get together and socialise but this occasion needed something a bit more special.
We hired out the Underground of Academy Bar, laid on a Lavish buffet and had a LARGE Cake made to celebrate the successes of Senpai Rhian, Senpai Paul, Cian, Gareth and Sebastian.
A perfect evening of great students and guests.
BKKC Club Session
On Saturday 24th April, BKKC held a club session at Colcot Sports Hall to show family and friends what they have been training and working on. We managed to get half of the club together for this training session, and Sensei Phill, Senpai Rhian and Senpai Paul thoroughly enjoyed teaching so many of you at once.
Sensei Phill covered kihon, ido geiko, self-defence, kata and even some boken (wooden sword) work. Everyone trained very hard during the session and very much made their families and friends proud.
A huge thank you to all who came to train with us!
OSU!
HISTORY BEING MADE AT BARRY KYOKUSHIN
On Sunday 27th March Senpai Rhian Evans, Paul Lambert, Gareth Dutton and Sebastian Barczewski attended the 1st So-Kyokushin National grading at Honbu Dojo.
The Grading began with Kihon where Shihan Mac asked for Rokuju count (60 of each). So Kihon took a full hour to complete, a tough start to the test, it moved swiftly on to Ido Geiko where candidates were given a multitude of techniques and combinations to perform in various stances. Once that was completed we moved onto Kata, where every kata was performed with great attitude and skill and finally onto the Kumite test of 20 x 2 min rounds where everyone fought with great skill and determination despite very little rest and fatigue. ALL completed the Kumite test and at the end were presented with their results.
Barry Kyokushin are VERY proud to announce these results:
Senpai Rhian Evans : Nidan
Senpai Rhian is the backbone of Barry Kyokushin and Honbu Dojo and in the 44 years Barry Kyokushin has been operating, Senpai Rhian is the very first female to achieve Nidan, setting a truly remarkable standard throughout.
Senpai Paul Lambert : Shodan
Senpai Paul has been training for over a decade at Barry Kyokushin, this grade marks the 14th Person in the history of Barry Kyokushin to achieve Shodan. Paul began training in his late 30's and with a lot of dedication and effort has achieved something he thought he would never achieve.
Gareth Dutton : 1st Kyu
Sebastain Barczewski : 1st Kyu
Both now have a clear path to attempt Shodan in March 2023.
Sensei Phill said : "Im so incredibly proud to see our students achieve these grades, Senpai Paul is the 14th person to ever achieve Shodan in the history of the club and Senpai Rhian the FIRST ever female to achieve Nidan, absolutely incredible achievements from both. It was a very emotional moment, im so very proud of them all.
Kata clinic and Grading Preparation
Huge well done to everyone that came along to our Kata Clinic on the 5th Mafch 2022. A lot of progress was made and selections were made for gradings.
We are now preparing for Club grading on the 19th March, and National Grading on the 27th March. Keep working hard! Osu!
End of Year 2021
I think it’s certain that this has been another odd year. Very much like last year, where our progression for the club and its students has been slow, and when we try to look at the positives of 2021, you sit there (much as I’m doing right now) scratching your head. But I’m sure if we take a step back and take a look at what has been achieved so far, we’ll see many great positive achievements and milestones.
We’ve settled nicely into So-Kyokushin, the transition was very smooth indeed and we are seeing our calendar filling up nicely. We’ve been very fortunate to have Shihan Mac be very generous by travelling down to us on a very regular basis an teach. So much so he named us as the Headquarters for So-Kyokushin UK (Honbu). Grading successes in the middle of the year saw over 50 of our students achieve their next belts despite a VERY warm dojo. But we managed to cool off when some of our pre-teens arranged a day at the beach and we turned up with paddleboards and Kayaks, and a cooler full of drinks and snacks.
Our Little Spartans program absolutely exploded with great new classes and we have 2 new instructors for them, supporting Senpai Rhian.
We introduced an instructors training program for our mainstream classes of which 2 students are currently going through their paces to become the next assistant instructors at Barry Kyokushin.
We reignited the Adults “Fight Club” (Yeah, I know we’re not suppose to talk about it), it was nice to finally get back to hitting each other again, hahaha.
We ended the year holding a 30-man kumite for our junior students to raise funds for a centre defibrillator. We had Raffle donations of a Laptop, Cinema tickets and a Cake, and our students raised funds too. We managed to raise a whopping £4036.00. I think that’s the most we’ve ever raised for any event we’ve done in the past 43 years.
Finally, a December grading, which was a massive success, many students came along to take their test and we saw all succeed. Students of the Year shields were also awarded. A big congratulations to Ava Campbell our Junior award winner and Paul Lambert a 2 time award winner, the first time was back in 2017.
So, although its been another ODD year and once again many plans cancelled due to this pandemic, we are STILL here, We are STILL achieving and we are STILL smiling.
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your continued dedication and support to me, Barry Kyokushin and South Wales Martial Arts Academy and we wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a healthy and happy new year.
OSU
Our Defibrillator Fundraiser!
We cant begin to thank everyone for all their help towards the fund raiser. An absolutely fantastic event and everyone fought so hard to succeed their 30 fights. Congratulations to all of you. You all fought brilliantly.
Well done to the Raffle Prize winners, The Cinema tickets were donated by Kelly Ibrahim, thank you so much for those. The Laptop was donated by James and Vicky Evans of A & LH Environmental Services Ltd a Big thank you to you too. And last but not least the Cake, donated by Claire Normal. We all know tat you were ALL Secretly gutted you didn't win, but it went to a Little Spartan parent of Hollie Davies.
Anyway, the official figure hasn't yet been calculated as we are still waiting on some funds to be brought in but I can tell you what it currently stands at …..*drum roll*
….. A WHOPPING £3791.00 !!!!!!!
Thank you all so much for all of your support, it's been incredible.
The First Seminar of 2021!
We have been fortunate enough to get together for a seminar now the restrictions are slowly being eased in the UK - Shihan Mac travelled all the way across the country to hold it in So-Kyokushin UK's Honbu Dojo.
The seminar covered the new syllabus which was written and designed by Shihan Mac. It is a well constructed and VERY informative syllabus that really benefits the student. The seminar covered all the basics, the Kata and Bunkai PLUS all the in-depth knowledge from Shihan Mac.
So-Kyokushin Honbu Dojo, which is run by Sensei Phill said; “It was great to have Shihan Mac down, it is always a great training and the knowledge passed on is invaluable. We had great 5 great classes which gave everyone an opportunity to learn and gain the knowledge of Shihan Mac. We are really looking forward to the next opportunity to have Shihan visit."
Shihan Mac commented saying; “This is a great dojo to train and teach from, the dojo is filled with a good strong spirit and the many students that I was privileged to teach over the weekend had a great Kyokushin Spirit. So-Kyokushin is such a great organization to be part of and our UK organization is growing nicely. Future seminars and events are already being planned and I see a very positive and bright future for us”.
So-kyokushin UK – “We stepped into the light”. OSU!
Barry Kyokushin Re-Opens!
On May 4th 2021, we reopen our doors to all of our students again!
Wales have been locked down since before Christmas 2020, so we are so excited to finally be able to reopen. We will still be following all National guidelines.
Please make sure you make yourself aware of te Kata clinic for ALL junior students from Beginner to Blue belt which will be this coming Saturday 12 - 2pm. This will be to help those hoping to grade the following Saturday (15th May).
We can not wait to see everyone back inside training. OSU!
BKKC Move to So-Kyokushin UK
Barry Kyokushin are very much looking forward to contributing to the Organisation that have now joined since leaving IKO.
So-Kyokushin UK is an open organisation and has many great opportunities for our students in the UK and Abroad.
The organisation is headed up by Shihan Mac Robertson, a highly respected instructor known throughout the world.
So-Kyokushin teach Kyokushin how Sosai taught it. Many organisations have changed techniques and Kata and its not that So-kyokushin are adverse to changes in Kata or experimenting with other methods so long as the Kyokushin that Sosai taught remains the focus.
Sensei Phill says "
The move is a positive one, and im very much looking forward to working with Shihan Mac in helping to build this organisation. Shihan Mac and I are very good friends and we both share the same focus and have the same energy towards the idea's for this UK organisation, Its going to be an exciting time ahead".
So-Kyokushin already has vast numbers across the globe and a rich history with its President : Hanshi Daigo Oishi who served under Sosai as an Uchi Deshi for many years before becoming a highly successful Branch Chief in Japan for Sosai.
UK Organisation :
www.sokyokushin.uk
World Organisation :
www.sokyokushin.com
Karate Club - Sports club of the Year 2020
We kick off the new year with this great award for Sports Club of the Year 2020.
2020 is a year that will be remembered for generations as one of the toughest years we've faced for a few decades, All through our lockdown we did everything we could to keep our students engaged and in routine, Zoom sessions, 1 to 1 sessions and then finally outdoor sessions. Instructors were exhausted but nevertheless kept on going.
Sensei Phill said :
We're very proud to have won this award from Bro Radio and extend our thanks to the sponsor of this award ;Composite Doors Cardiff. Its not been an easy 2020 for anyone, but with so many dedicated students with us now their dedication spurred on our commitment to them, This award is very much for our students who stuck by us through this very difficult year, Thank you all.
Barry Kyokushin is back at training now at South Wales Martial arts Academy albeit via online training, But we did it once....twice....one more wont knock us down.
OSU
End of year 2020!
2020 will definitely be a year to remember but not for the usual reasons, with so many great plans cancelled, and the disappointment felt with having to let people down its difficult to imagine how we managed to get through it.
However, we are going through it, we are managing it and no matter what situation we are thrown into we are ALL still progressing and achieving.
As we look back and see what we have been through, as a club and as a country, it’s a testament to you all that you are STILL training and STILL achieving albeit not in the usual way we do.
When we think of progressing and achieving, we think of tournament successes, grading successes. But when those things are not available, we must look a little deeper into ourselves to see the achievement. We made the absolute best of the online training, interacting with each other from our homes gave us a chance to see each other in a different setting, it gave us a feeling of “we are all in this together”. It was hard, it was unusual, but adapting is something that comes naturally to people who train in martial arts. We all face hurdles in our lives, this situation is just one of them. For many years to come we all must face other hurdles and if we do so with the same perseverance and tenacity, we faced in 2020 you will see the positive outcome you want.
Now that 2020 is almost behind us, we look forward to what 2021 will bring, with so many students joining us its great to think of the many events we can hopefully plan and include you all in on such as Camps, Tournaments and seminars, I am keeping everything crossed for the chance to put these on. I am so very proud of each and every one of you for your dedication to your training and your support to me and Barry Kyokushin that if we can survive this, achieve through this, grow through this, then I see a VERY bright future for us all.
With that said I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your fantastic support through this difficult year, it has been tough for everyone, but you all came through and I’m very proud of you all.
I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a healthy and happy new year.
OSU!
Sensei Phill
National Grading
On Saturday 5th December Wales Kyokushin hosted a National Grading for those eligible for 2nd kyu and above. Complying with restrictions and keeping everyone socially distanced, with numbers at bare minimum, a tough grading was conducted with Shihan Paul Greenway. Although a kumite test couldn't be carried out, we held a tameshiwari test with juniors breaking 3 roof tiles, and seniors breaking 6, as well as a tough fitness element.
We are very pleased to report that we now have two new 2nd Kyus in Barry Kyokushin - Jack Garrett and Sebastian Barczewski. OSU!
A successful post lockdown Grading
We all know how tough lockdown was, but when it comes to our students who continued their support, maintained their training through the 170+ zoom sessions, attended over 30 outdoor sessions when allowed and then attended EVERY available session including free day time sessions on the run up to the grading, their dedication, hard work and patience has fully paid off.
We held a grading where almost 40 students attended (split into 3 groups to maintain a healthy social distance) and we are delighted to say that we had a fantastic result and each one of them worked incredibly hard throughout the day, both mentally and physically
.Sensei Phill said; "The standard was impeccably high, it was very encouraging to see how dedicated they were all through lockdown and even more so when they turned up to grade and showed a great spirit and ability, hence the successful day. I'm so proud of each and everyone of them for stepping up today and giving the grading their all.
All students are now working hard towards their next grades and are hoping for some great 2021 events to make up for all the missed opportunities that Covid took away from them.
***BACK OPEN AFTER COVID-19***
We’re delighted to be allowed open after lockdown from the 10th August! It was a tough time, but ALL the way through we kept our commitment to our students just as they kept their commitment to us.
We went online and took over 12hrs a week of training via Zoom, a total of 170+ sessions online, not including private 1-1 sessions. Provided over 40 online tutorial video’s and then we went outdoors to train and did 36 outdoor sessions, it was tough going.
Although we are back, we are still being careful. Dojo cleaning, social distancing of the groups that need to, staggered training times are just the few things we have set in place.
Health and safety of our students, and their family, is our 1st priority
While we’ve been off, we’ve extended the dojo and bought in LOADS of new kit for everyone. We’re really excited to be back and moving forward with our dedicated students. See you all soon!
OSU!
Sensei Phill Sedgmond and Barry Kyokushin have been working with the Vale of Glamorgan’s Youth Well-being team over the last few months and are making some great progress with the young people they support. In private classes held once a week young people are attending and gaining confidence and learning some great self defence.
Working for our community is one of Sensei Phill's primiary objectives. When he was approached by the Head Teacher and Deputy head of High Street school asking if he could work with some of their pupils who have trouble with focus and concentration, he jumped at the chance. Now, working with 8 students every week at SWMAA in a private class, he is slowly transforming these kids into determined and focused driven kids. Sensei Phill says "trying to help kids steer clear of trouble and on the right path is key to today's society, i'm happy to work with any school or government body to help achieve this in the Vale"
Cleaning and perfecting Kata is critical to a students progression.
Our Kata clinics are non compulsory but when you have 40+ turn up and all wanting to perfect their abilities it kind of puts a big smile on your face.
March's grading is looking good for many. OSU, well done everyone
February 2020 saw Sensei Phill celebrate his 8th year as Dojo operator of Barry Kyokushin, former Dojo operator Sensei Richard Males started Barry Kyokushin in May 1978 and retired from teaching due to ill health and injuries in 2002 and handed the club over to a Then Senpai Phill.
Since then the club has grown immeasurably under the now SENSEI Phill.
Having produced scores of national champions over the past 8 years, encouraging good competitors to compete in Europe and going along to support them every step of the way, Sensei Phill is a strong and dedicated leader of Barry Kyokushin. Sensei Phill says "Its been an honor to run this prestigious club and help its students continually achieve, stepping into the big shoes of Sensei Richard has been a big task, but its one i continue to enjoy, im looking forward to a bright and prosperous future for Barry Kyokushin, one of the longest running karate clubs in the Wales"
On Saturday 11th January, Barry Kyokushin sent up 15 of their Seniors to our Annual waterfall training session at Scwrd Yr Eira in Brecon. Sensei Phill and Sensei Richard led the way with 30 students from Wales being put through vigorous Kihon and fitness along the run to the falls.
The usual, soaked through, muddy but energetic bunch made their way under the falls to wait their turn to do their punches under the falls, Newbies first. Then a dry off, a quick toasts to bring in the new year and then a walk back to the Lamb in for a warm by the fire and a hearty cheers and pint with everyone before heading home for a Hot shower.
Happy new year all.
KATA:
On the 12th October Barry Kyokushin headed for Hilden in Germany to compete in the IKO German Open.
Competing in Kata saw Senpai Rhian sail through to the final round. Senpia Rhian who is ranked 5th in Europe found herself in in final with Europe's 4th ranking. Senpai was just pipped to the first place by 1.5 point settling for a very respectful 2nd Place.
Up next was Kim Norris who have never competed before, so being her first ever tournament she was quite nervous. Kim performed her Kata's but just missed out on 3rd place just to a small error on her final Kata, but an excellent attempt and gave her some much needed experience.
Next up in Kumite was Gareth Dutton. Gareth faced off in the first round against the German selection for the World Tournament, Gareth stood his ground against the large German and fought well, but was dropped by a perfectly timed punch to the ribs giving the German the win. Gareth went on to compete in the next round but was later discovered that his previous opponent pulled out. Gareth took a very much deserved 3rd place.
Last up for our small team was Kim Norris, she stood against 2 Belgium opponents and fought well. She was again, understandably nervous, having never fought before in tournaments and it was just her inexperience that saw her settle for a 3rd place.
Sensei Phill said "This tournament was a first for us, but we will be back again, we were made to feel really welcome and the tournament was great, i'm very proud of my guys and their attitude on and off the mat. this was a great starting point for our competitors and loads of knowledge was gained by coming. We'll come away now and build on that and look forward to the next opportunity"
A few months ago we contacted the Barry Town Council to ask permission to use the town's coat of arms on Badges for our Higher grade students.
This process wasn't simply a case of asking, We had to prove that we are of the caliber required to use it. Outlining that we have been operating in Barry for over 40 years and that these badges are for our International competitors to represent our club and town when they travel. Also that we are run as a Not for Profit club.
After a meeting of the Barry Town Committee they gave us a unanimous vote and gave permission to use this fantastic Coat of Arms.
These Badges will be given to students who achieve a level of 2nd Kyu, it is normally at these grades that they begin performing Judging duties where a very smart dress and highly professional manner is required.
Thankyou Barry Town Council
A spectacular day was had by all, we made new champions, and defended current champions. The results are as below :
Synchronized Kata.
Ben Bolanos
Justine Bolanos
Leanne Lirio
2nd Place
Kelly Shi
James Shi
Cian Wilmott
Kata 1
Gabriella Sedgmond 1st Place New Champion
Kayden Lewis 2nd Place
Tudor Constantine 3rd Place
Angie Perks 1st Place New Champion
Kata 3
Jamie Jones 2nd Place
Sebastian Barczewski 3rd Place
Kata 4
Justine Bolanos 1st Place (Defended Champion)
Kelly Shi 2nd Place
Leanne Lirio 3rd Place
Ben Bolanos 1st Place (Defended Champion)
Cian Wilmot 2nd Place
Kata 6
Claire Norman 1st Place New Champion
Yusef Hasan 2nd Place
Kata 7
Senpai Rhian Evans 1st Place (10 x National Kata Champ)
Clicker 1
Lloyd Jones 1st Place New Champion
Jamie Jones 2nd Place
Clicker 4
Justine Bolanos 1st Place New Champion
Kelly Shi 2nd Place
Clicker 5
Ben Bolanos 1st Place New Champion
Senior Clicker
Jack Garrett 1st Place New Champion
Cadet Knockdown 1
Angie Perks 1st Place (Defended champion)
Lily Evans 2nd Place
Katie Cookson 3rd Place
Cadet Knockdown 2
Harri Evans 1st Place New Champion
Ryan Marshall 2nd Place
Kayden Lewis 3rd Place
Cadet Knockdown 3
Jamie Jones 2nd Place
Even Conway 1st place New Champion
Ben Bolanos 1st Place New Champion
Cadet Knockdown 6
Justine Bolanos 1st Place New Champion
Leanne Lirio 2nd Place
Cadet Knockdown 7
Jack Garrett 1st Place New Champion
Novice Knockdown
Marijus Lik 2nd Place
Gareth Dutton 2nd Place
Vetrans Middle Weight
Paul Lambert 1st Place New Champion
On 2nd March 2019, Senpia Rhian took a solo trip to attend the Spanish Open championships to compete in Kata. The Spanish competitors are renowned for being among the best in the world, Yes Senpai Rhian's attitude is "to beat the best you have to compete with the best"
The tournament was yet another excellent experience for the young Welsh Senpai.
The tournament wasn't like the usual European championships where you perform an entry level Kata and then a then a chosen kata. At the Spanish Open you pick an entry level kata from a hat. Senpai Rhian chose Saifa....Not her strongest Kata but she performed it well. Unfortunately the performance wasn't good enough to proceed through to the final rounds, just missing out by 0.5 of a point.
However, as we say : The more experience we get the more we can propare. Senpai Rhian will now look forward to competing at the European Championships in Poland in May this year.
On Saturday 13th October, Club instructors Sensei Phill and Senpai Rhian attended the IKO National Seminar in England where Senpai Rhian received her IKO Shodan belt and Certificate from Shihan Claronino 8th Dan Chief Instructor of IKO GB.
This was a very proud moment, Senpai Rhian is only the 2nd Adult female to achieve Shodan in 40 years in Barry Kyokushin. A very momentous occasion. Osu Senpai, well done.
On 13th July, Rhian Evans (along with 7 other memebrs of Barry Kyokushin) Attended the IKO Natioanl Summer camp. Rhian was there for one reason....To test to Shodan (Black Belt), Rhian went through 14.5 hrs of training over the course of the weekend and took the test infront of Shihan Claronino 8th Dan who is currently the highest grade in Europe.
After the examination Rhian had to endure the 20 man kumite, Rhian, being only 5ft 1ins tall and a very slender 55kg stood her ground against heavyweight males and seasoned knockdown fighters, she took 16 wins, 2 losses and 2 draws (2 wins by knockout).
Rhian had to wait a until the end of the camp to find out if she was successful, but after the very last session, Sensei Phill (who had already been told of her achievement the afternoon before) broke the good news to Senpai Rhian.
Also grading on the weekend was Paul Lambert, who was also successful to 2nd Kyu Brown belt.
Sensei Phill says : "Senpai Rhian is the 13th person in the clubs 40 years history to achieve this grade, She is also only the 2nd senior female to achieve this grade. Senpai Rhian is my first student for me to take from white belt to black belt since i took over Barry Kyopkushin in 2012. So this is very special for me. I'm very proud of both Senpai Rhian and Paul Lambert in achieving these grades, it inspires others to follow in their footsteps."
On the 18th May, Barry Kyokushin's Rhian Evans, traveled to Bulgaria with Chief Instructor Sensei Phill Sedgmond and Branch Chief of Wales Shihan Paul Greenway to compete at the 32nd European Championships, held in Varna, Bulgaria. Rhian, who now holds 8 titles in kata in GB made her 2nd visit to this European championships to test out her kata against the worlds finest. There were over 20 in her category and ALL were shodan (1st Dan Blackbelt) and above making Rhian the lowest grade in that category. Rhian stepped up and performed Geksai Sho (Entry level Kata) scoring 6.0 across the board, but this wasn't quite high enough to take her through to the next round but only missing out on a final spot by a mere 0.5.
Sensei Phill say's: We are always very proud of Rhian for stepping up to the european circuit, this is only her 2nd time competing in Europe and we learn more and more every time, i know Rhian was disappointed in herself, but as i have always said, you never lose...you only learn. We'll take from this what we need and we'll be back again next year to test it out again."
