2026 News Update.

January has come and gone in a flash! The Shin Gi Tai course circuit has already started where it was nice to see and celebrate Sensei Heidi and Sensei Tim's engagement - congratulations both!

It was good to see Soke Gwynne on form and being the inspiration that he is. It's also nice to see that I've been missed by old and new friends alike where I am looking forward to getting into the swing of training on this year's course circuit.

Jack continues to represent the club in a strong fashion where it's amazing to see how much his Aikido is developing. Despite some unexpected barriers, others within the club are also looking to increase their time on courses. Am looking forward to seeing how their aikido develops as a result.

Of importance, we celebrated our tenth year anniversay with a low-key practice with Sensei Richard Paul and Sensei Alan Dwyer as guests. It was a nice night's practice. For those who don't know, both sensei Richard and sensei Alan were members of Oakdale Aikido, alongside me, under Shihan Peter Thomas. As ever with Ty Sign, I always ensure I honour Shihan Thomas and Oakdale.

Last year, I only managed to train for one morning session, of which I took Shihan Peter Thomas, from Oakdale Aikido, followed by a full day in September. I also co-delivered ta BAB coaching course, where Shin Gi Tai increased its number of instructors as a result. I also went to Surry for a days mixed Budo course and that was about it.

Although I noticed the absence of Soke's teachings, I also noticed that taking an enforced break from courses and other training opportunities, it has allowed me time and distance away from the noise of other people's opinions and expectations, which has helped me focus on the main points of what I want from training, who I want to train with and most importantly, why.

In some respects, this has also reflected my stepping back and away from politcs and the Executive Committee. I have respect for those holding positions on the exec committee but ultimately, for me personally, it was becoming a 'noise' and 'distraction' from my own training path. I haven't once regretted stepping away from my role on the committee.

Instead, in my aikido journey and my personal life, I seek the purity and peace in the simple pleasures such as training and a calm mind and that is my intention for the new year.

In essence my intention is to attend and train on more SGT courses, including the kata lessons, as well as visit a few other courses that come up throughout the year (High Grade classes, guest instructors in Aikido Alive; Bruno in Scotland, etc.) - Of course, it depends on work and family commitments first but my intention is to be on courses and train as much as I can.

It will be a continuation of balancing training with all the factors in my life whilst also being mindful of maintaining my health issues and fitness. Am looking forward to what the new year brings!

Osu!

Sensei Marc.