On Sunday, we had the promotion exam for KYU to 4 Dan. There were around 60 people testing at the examination.
I got 3 Dan a year ago, therefore I did not have the qualification to take test this time. I went to the examination as a helper. I helped as a timer, so I was sitting behind the five Senseis who were judging the contestant’s performance. Being a timer is a very easy task, so was able to not only check the contestant’s performance, but also how each Senseiwas reacting to their performance. When I was an contestant, I was very curious how the decisions were made.
They had a list of the contestant’s information with their numbers. The list did not have their names or Dojo names. If the contestant had enough skills for that Kyu or Dan, Senseis would check “PASS”, as they would approve that contestant. However, if his/her skills were near the borderline, they would check another space to discuss about this person after. After all contestants have performed, the judges would go to a closed room to discuss.
One common thing I noticed about the applicant who passed 4 Dan, it was that they had good Seme and tried to invite the opponent to hit. There are many 3 Dans and many different styles of Kendo.
Finally, Congratulations to every body who passed!! From now, you will start to practice for next Dan! I am sorry for the applicants who did not pass. I hope next time you will!!
Kendo Kata 10 honme
