Seminar Reflection by Brian Gray, North Carolina Kyudo Renmei

Brian Gray: ShodanNorth Carolina Kyudo RenmeiLast week I attended the 2013 International Kyudo Federation American Seminar at the University of South Carolina Upstate, in Spartanburg, South Carolina. It was attended by Kyudo practitioners from all over the globe. On my arrival to attend the three day seminar, the seminar itself was in full operation with the 4 day seminar. The dojo had instruction going on and practice shooting. There were people arriving from the airports; in cars; checking in and moving into their rooms. It seemed hectic but was flowing smoothly. There were "Hey's" and hugs from old friends and introductions to new people. I was first impressed by the campus, its looks, cleanness, and accommodations. Checking in was quick and effective, the rooms were spacious and neat; linens, paper, trash bags all in the rooms already. The Wellness Center was set up as the dojo for shooting and a racquetball court set up for makiwara practice. There were bow racks everywhere with shooting equipment underneath them. The dojo was just across the parking lot from the building we were staying in. We walked across a little bridge with a brook, where there were benches, flower gardens and large beautiful trees to go up to the dining hall. The food was good and the staff friendly and helpful. The seminar was planned well and everything went on time. The Hanshi were interesting to listen to, helped with technique questions and did demonstrations to show form. I learned much from the instruction, personal critique, demonstrations and watching others shoot. The testing was well organized with many senior people assisting to keep things on track and timely. I fully enjoyed myself the entire week and suddenly it was over to soon. I would like to say "Thank You" to the International Kyudo Federation, the All Nippon Kyudo Federation, the American Kyudo Renmei, the South Carolina Kyudo Renmei and all the people that help to make this years seminar a great and memorable experience for everyone.