Students Promoted at Bermuda Aikikai
Collins Smith Sensei [6th degree black belt] announced the promotions of a number of students within the dojo. Last Thursday night, 5 students tested for 3rd degree black belt, one for 1st degree black belt and one 2nd kyu and one 3rd kyu. This is the first time so many students been awarded such high ranks at the same time in the 25 year history of Bermuda Aikikai.
Promotions were as follows:
Sandan- 3rd Degree black belt:
- James Baptiste
- Michael Robinson
- Anthea Pascaris
- Peter Aldrich
- John Manderson
Shodan- 1st Degree black belt
- Andrew Spence
Others
- 2nd Kyu- Nic Plianthos
- 3rd Kyu- Ethan Rogers
Translated very roughly “Aikido” means The Way of Peace with the ultimate objective being to use the attackers energy and momentum to your advantage. This is done by employing throws, joint locks and circular movements that are actually designed to keep the attacker under control without having to harm them.
Collins Smith Sensei began his training in karate under Frederick “Skipper” Ingham around 1969 and won his first tournament as a purple belt at New York Sunnyside Gardens.
Bermuda’s first aikido dojo “Bermuda Aikikai”, was opened just past Raynor’s Garage in Warwick. After a year at that location, Bermuda Aikikai relocated to Samaritan’s Lodge on Cobbs Hill where it remains today.
Bermuda Aikikai offers classes to both children and adults, and is a member of the United States Aikido Federation. For additional info on Sensei Smith and Bermuda Aikikai visit Aikido.bm.
