by David D’hose
I organized this event for several reasons. The most obvious, which many of you already know, is that I’m celebrating my 50th birthday this year. It’s a significant milestone, a moment that naturally leads to reflection.
As I look back over the years, one thing stands out clearly: naginata has been a constant thread in my life. I’ve been practicing for over 30 of those 50 years, and through that time, many of you have played an important role—marking meaningful moments, friendships, and shared experiences.
I believe we should celebrate life whenever we have the chance, and I was truly happy to have so many participants to this seminar to share this special occasion with me.
Thank you to Yasui Sensei for honoring us with her presence.
Thank you to Tyl, François, and Laurence for being part of this journey—and for all the memories still to come.
And thank you to each and every one of you for coming to participate to this wonderfull seminar, and there was people from Sweden, France, Britain, Italy, Germany… It really was a beautifull event.
On Friday, we kicked off this wonderful seminar with a training session at the club with the bravest participants. It was a great way to start the weekend. Then, on Saturday and Sunday, after Yasui sensei arrived, we enjoyed a seminar that I had asked François to organize. We shared mornings of group lessons and afternoons of competitions, either in engi or bogu. I think everyone enjoyed it.
On Saturday evening, a wonderful party was organized to celebrate the event that brought us together. I gave you all a beautiful little chocolate naginata to mark the festivities, and you all gave me wonderful messages of friendship.
It was a wonderful moment of friendship around our shared passion, and I am happy to have shared it with you. I hope to see you again soon
