Every year in early January, our governing body, the Kai Shin Kai gives everyone an opportunity do dust off the Christmas cobwebs and burn some of the one-too-many chocolates by starting the year with a national aikido seminar.

In that regard, this January has been no different, and a number of Satomi Kai’s students headed off for a fantastic day’s training.  This year added an extra something very special.

The Kai Shin Kai is headed by Sensei Bill Harris, who turns 80 this year, and the organisation wanted to mark the occasion by throwing him a surprise party while so many of his students (and his student’s students) were there to share it with him.
So after a fantastic day of aikido training, the surprise was revealed, and everyone including family and friends stayed to celebrate with a Hog Roast, drinks, and share stories.

Bill has been practicing aikido for well over 40 years, and at 80 years old is still training hard. He is always smiling, even when throwing people across the room.
Bill has taught many seminars for us here at the Satomi Kai, and we hope hope to see him for many more. His great skill, and cheerful demeanour always make his courses a firm favourite.

I hope that by the time I reach a similar age that I am even half as active in the art, both physically, and in bringing its benefits to others, and want to take this opportunity to say thanks, and Happy Birthday Bill!