Goodbye Mr. Kikawa

Yesterday was Mr. Kikawa's final practice here in Jakarta. We don't know if he will be able to come back here to Jakarta after this term. I do hope that he does. You see, he is one of the first offensive oriented Kendo teacher that came to Jakarta a couple of years ago. Practicing with him has greatly helped me in developing my own offensive Kendo. Anticipating attacks while creating your own opportunity. In fact, it was because of practicing with him that I developed my own Kote-Men attack, to counter his close distance maai and Kote attacks.
Even though he had a leg cramp, he did astoundingly well. Fought more than 10 people and beat most of them. He will surely be missed...

Before the farewell shiais, I was able to practice with Mr. KKawa, Mr. Smura and Mr. Aono. Incorporating what I thought of the past few days, I think I was more comfortable with my own Kendo rather than trying forcing myself to do a more rigid style.
Although, I was having difficulties in trying to hit a Men attack against Mr. Smura, somehow his swing always could negate mine, thus grabbing away the point for himself. I think my center is off, especially when colliding with his strong attack.
While I think my friend God of Thunder doesn't as difficult time as myself. Perhaps due to his height and strength as well...