The 35th Southport Summer School started on the 26th of July with an enthusiastic group attending the FPJ Level 1 Coaching Award course and ended on the 3rd of August with the examinations of those who attended the FPJ Level 2 course. Both FPJs were tutored by Mr. A. Hosaka 8th Dan Kodokan who as usual, ensured that his students fully understood the finer details of his tuition in order to pass the higher level of coaching requirement within the Level 2.

Members in attendance were from far and wide within the boundaries of the United Kingdom including Scotland, South London, Newcastle etc which speaks volumes for the popularity of the Southport Venue around the regions.

The rest of the week resulted in both an increase in numbers and enthusiasm with a lot of fun thrown in. This was mainly due to the high class instruction of Yamamoto Sensei who taught a good mix of both tachi waza and ne waza and of course an insight to his famous sangaku jime. Mr Mealing gave his usual high standard of instruction during the kata sessions and then treated the children, the future of the B.J.C, to an afternoon of general judo sharing his great experience and vast knowledge of Judo.

The children enjoyed a plethora of games and activities during the lunch period. Evening entertainment incorporated organised swimming, nine pin bowling, a visit to the fairground and a family barbecue including a game of rounders who won I cannot recall. The highlight of the week was of course …… The Dinner Dance! Here were Posh frocks galore, bow ties, champagne and of course loads of flash photography. (No don’t be daft; the real highlight was the WATER FIGHT won as usual by T. Newton who was the rules devisor).

The Dinner Dance I feel requires more than just the aforementioned mention. It was grand affair, no other word for it. It was in celebration of the 50th anniversary, of the founding of the British Judo Council. With many faces from the past in attendance, far too many to enumerate here so rather than offend by omission I will just list the Areas that were in evidence starting with our own Lancs Area followed by, Cheshire, Yorkshire, Newcastle, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Surrey, N. London, Cumbria and Borders. In all there were 78 diners, and I think an equivalent number of drinkers! GRM came out with a good resume of people in attention and Mr. Yamamoto gave an impressive rendition (in tune and Japanese) of a Judo Song. The party broke up round about midnight but I would not be surprised if a few private parties did not follow. A good night enjoyed by all.

The Summer School ended with the grading on the Friday for juniors; Saturday was the day of the Area grading for seniors and Sunday the final examinations of the FPJ Level 2 attendees. We would like to thank everyone for their continued support and help; we look forward to seeing you next year. Monday 3rd August to Friday 7th August 2009 (don’t forget your water pistol). (Maybe a frock and dancing shoes!).

M.M.