Duarte Shotokan Karate Academy | Martial Arts Classes for Kids, Teens & Adults

Families that Kick together Stick together!!

2011-06-22T00:48:00.000-07:00

Parents enjoy spending time with their kids and often look for creative and quality activities to do with them. Kicking a soccer ball in the back yard, going to the local park to play catch, listening to music or dancing together in the living room are all great activities to engage in with your child. However, consider for a moment, adding a Karate class to that list of activities. The Martial Arts, Karate specifically, offers a tremendous opportunity for families to participate together in the same class while doing something that is beneficial to all those who are involved.
The phrase, “A family that kicks together, sticks together", couldn’t be any more truthful. More and more families are discovering that practicing Karate together actually encourages interaction between parents and their children, promotes sharing a common interest and offers a number of healthy and fun benefits. So, you ask, how does practicing Karate provide these benefits?
Regardless of age and skill level, Karate is a challenging activity. It offers a great exercise routine, teaches practical self-defense skills and it provides a structured environment that caters to each individual’s ability. The mental, spiritual and philosophical side of Karate can also provide higher self esteem, confidence, respect for others, positive motivation and help with goal setting.
The benefits of practicing Karate are many. Here are just a few that may peak your interest:

FITNESS: Practicing Karate is an excellent workout that challenges the entire body and all of its muscle groups. Practicing Martial Arts burns more calories than most other activities other than swimming or running a 7 minute mile! Needles to say, it is a very good activity to maintain or improve your fitness levels and cardio-vascular strength.

SELF DEFENSE: Defending yourself is an important part of any practitioner’s study of the Martial Arts. It is becoming more important and critical to possess a fundamental understanding and skill level of self defense regardless of age. Learning “Anti-Bully” techniques and personal protection skills are just one aspect of the training.

CONTINUOUS LEARNING: Karate is structured in a very systematic and progressive fashion that promotes constant refinement. Each Karate student is encouraged to practice individually and to seek knowledge for self-improvement and constant personal development. This type of teaching leads to interpersonal discipline and a good solid work ethic. In a good Martial Arts school you will find that there is always something new to learn and always something different to practice. This progressive content is introduced systematically so as not to overwhelm the beginning students as well as provide a continuous challenge for the intermediate and advanced students.

Spirituality and Philosophy: The philosophies contained in the Martial Arts are both valuable and beneficial to children as well as adults. The opportunity to study and practice these philosophies as a family can lead to very open and positive dialogue between parents and their children.
Each of these different aspects of Karate and the Martial Arts have relevance to individuals of all ages, and consequently parents and children are finding this to be a very enjoyable and challenging family activity for all who participate. There is nothing more fun than having a training partner (Mom, Dad, Brother or Sister) to encourage you along the way. While training together, each individual will be able to bring their own view of the same activity to the overall experience, which then leads to better communication and understanding between all family members. This improved communication will help put the “quality” in “quality time”.
As you can see, enrolling in a Karate class is probably one of the best things you can do for your family. So, if you are stumbling over gift ideas for the holidays and want something that is unique, priceless and will last forever, then look no further than Academy of Karate located in Duarte. Start today and begin a journey that is well worth taking and that will bring you and/or your family improved health, fitness and fun.
If you’re interested in starting your journey in Karate and would like some useful information about the Martial Arts, feel free to visit Academy of Karate on the web at www.duartekarate.com or give us a call at 626-599-1633.
Just remember that a family that KICKS together, STICKS Together!

Duarte Shotokan Karate Academy - Promo Video

2011-06-07T05:25:00.000-07:00

How to do a proper warm-up

2011-05-17T18:58:00.000-07:00

FACT: A proper warm-up routine is one the most important ingredients of any physical activity, especially marital arts training.

Although most sports like basketball, football, soccer, baseball or tennis utilize warm-up techniques that are specific to their sport, when it comes to martial arts this practice is not as common as one would think.

It's not to say that the martial arts or its practitioners do not have activity specific methods to do a proper warmup routine, it's just that there are so many people that do not practice a standardize warm-up method like most coaches or athletes of team sports do.

For example: What actions do basketball players perform when playing?

They shoot, pass, run, jump and shuffle side to side to name a few. So is it surprising that the warm-up routine of a basketball player resembles many of the actions they are about to perform in a game?

Shouldn't this be the case in a Dojo too?

Students stretching after a good warmup.

You would think so. However in many cases there is no specific standard handed down from Sensei to student regarding "efficient/appropriate" methods of warming up. Most practitioners just imitate their instructors during classes. Most of the time they are not even taught how to perform a warm up at all. The funny thing about that is so many students are expected to just "know how" to lead a proper warm up at a certain stage in their training whether they were shown how to accomplish the task or NOT.

Additionally, the idea that stretching is warming up your muscles is also quite common.

FACT:

WARMING UP AND STRETCHING ARE NOT THE SAME THING.

So here are some of my personal views on performing a proper warm-up.

Warming up is for the sole purpose of raising the temperature of your blood and to increase your heart rate and circulation to the point of at least %60 above your resting heart rate.
Stretching is "stretching" and totally separate from the warm up. "do not confuse the two as they are completely separate parts of your training.
Stretching is for increasing flexibility, loosening and elongating the muscles and to increase the range of motion of your movements. It is important to stretch "after" a proper warmup first.
Warm up your body to the point of breaking a good sweat before stretching.
USE FUNCTIONAL MOVEMENTS according to the techniques or movements you are about to perform. Example: MAE GERI, If you are to work on your kick, then you must perform exercises that will warm up the specific muscles necessary for the specified technique.

Kick example would be: light kicking without over-extending, knee raises or light leg swings.

In comparison: Baseball players swing bats to get ready to bat. For punching, practice light movements of similar nature.

Try a variety of actions that will serve the same purpose of the desired technique. Example: For hand techniques, rotate the shoulders, practice hiki-te lightly, punch or block lightly, use light resistance movements in similar action.
Isolate the muscles you are about to use to perform. Example: Back-fist requires the biceps and triceps to snap in and out for an effective strike. So isolating those muscles in movements like curls or extensions is ideal to preparing for a back fist practice.
Make sure to repeat movements at least 3 sets of eight to ensure an adequate amount of loosening and warming up has occurred.
Start slowly then speed up your movements gradually. Do not go full blast until after the warmup, this also applies to (ROM) "range of motion"
Warm up your body from HEAD 2 TOE or from TOE 2 HEAD. Never from the core to the limbs.
Maintain proper movement in every action, avoid rotation of a joint that is not a ball joint like elbows or knees. Rotating your hips in moderation is okay but rotation of the knees is very damaging. SO DON'T DO IT!!
Change it up, try new routines regularly, Just as the mind gets bored of something, so does the body and its response to the routine lessens over time.

These are just some of my personal notes on properly warming up the body before Karate class or any other sport but not an end to all means. I would advise seeking out your own knowledge to implement in your your workouts while keeping an open mind and sticking to what makes sense. Taking note of someone else's personal experience in the matter hopefully will only help broaden your horizons.

Good luck and Good Training!!

OSS!

NEW Special offer! 9 weeks for only $99

2011-03-05T16:32:00.000-08:00

NEWS FLASH!!

AOK is proud to introduce our best offer yet!!

Currently we are offering 9 weeks of unlimited classes to all NEW COMERS who are looking for a Quality Dojo at affordable rates.

Also included is a Karate uniform and a Sports Bottle (while Supplies last)

Come by for a visit and check out our classes, We are confident you will love them!
If you are still not sure, Just call to schedule a FREE Lesson on your first visit.

YOU have nothing to lose and EVERYTHING TO GAIN!

Give us a call at: 626-599-1633
or
email us at: info@duartekarate.com

Lost or Forgotten Karate Techniques - Part 1

2010-12-31T03:46:00.000-08:00

I wanted to touch on a topic that I don't find many people discussing often. THE LOST or FORGOTTEN techniques of Karate-do.

Most dojos teach a very similar way and for the most part all offer the same curriculum, especially if they are of a Shotokan background. What I like the most about Karate in general is that no one style of karate is limited in its vastness yet they are all so different and very compatible to each other at the same time. This leaves a lot of room for growth and learning within Karate as a whole.
The founder of Shotokan Karate - Gichin Funakoshi once said there is no style in karate.

No matter the style you are studying, all karate styles are considered very versatile and offer many types of techniques and principles. Karate in its crude form is very diverse and complete. It was originally intended and developed as a martial art for self defense and survival, not for sport and competition.

Unfortunately, most dojos today only focus on sport competition and or make their claim to fame for offering a JKA style of karate which is very limited to striking and kicking and not much else.

Modern Karate schools don't typically offer the type of training that will directly enhance a student's ability to defend themselves as quickly as many people think. BUT WHY?

-Whatever happened to falling techniques, grappling, low kicks, round punches/strikes, choke holds, joint manipulation and all the other techniques that karate originally consisted of in its arsenal of techniques to be taught?

-WHY is it that many dojos don't study or practice Karate like this.
-Why does Traditional Karate appear to be limited to only punching, kicking and blocking?
-Why is Kata practiced for tournament competition but not always studied for its practical application of techniques?
-Why isn't Karate as popular as it used to be?
-Why do many students give up their karate training long before "black belt" most of the time?
-Why do so many people deem Karate as not as effective as other arts anymore?
-Why are so many people gravitating to MMA Gyms or BJJ schools instead of traditional karate dojos?

I believe these things are both directly and indirectly related to the fact that many karate techniques have been LOST or FORGOTTEN. OR in a nutshell just don't exist anymore. OR the average Karate instructor does not teach or does not know these so called forgotten techniques.

EXAMPLE: When asked where to go if to improve your grappling skills? What is the answer? Almost always a person will reply with: Go to a BJJ school or a wrestling gym.
OR
What is the best style to train under for developing powerful punching skills?
The general answer is typically a Muay Thai or Boxing Gym.

THE GENERAL REPUTATION of a Karate dojo today is that is teaches mainly kids and that it is not really the best for self defense anymore but more for discipline, confidence and respect.

Self esteem and exercise for kids is the general reputation nowadays.

-What do we need to do to change and improve on this stereo-type?
-What do we as Karate enthusiasts need to do in order to re-educate the masses about the effectiveness and completeness of Karate?
-What do we need to do to improve the image of Karate and its perceived value?

My goal as a Sensei and Dojo Owner is to promote REAL Karate-do not only in a light that is ideal for all ages but also as an effective and complete form of self defense.

TEACHING effective grappling, Joint locks, throws and Take downs are all part of the big picture for Karate. FOR MANY unfortunately these essential techniques are either LOST or FORGOTTEN.

Please feel free to leave a comment below

Part 2 coming soon.....

Tournament Season and Team Jackets

2010-12-22T02:13:00.000-08:00

ARE YOU READY FOR 2011??

The upcoming Tournament season is upon us and our TEAM Jackets will be arriving right in time!!
There are several events AOK will be attending, To name a few:

TMAI Championships
Nikkei Games
Kabota Cup
Disney Martial Arts Festival
US OPEN
Ozawa Cup
Fontana Karate Dojo Championships
Adlawan Karate Championships

We will have an updated list of all the events we will be attending in 2011 with dates and venues.

We will be hosting TEAM TRYOUTS in JANUARY, So Get ready, Only the Best of the BEST from our Academy will be on the team.. ARE YOU READY?

See you all after the holidays,

Oss!

Nikkei Games Success!!

2010-08-15T23:10:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Nikkei Games at Cal State Long Beach was a total Success for students of the academy of Karate as AOK earned an amazing tally of 13 medals.

Many of the athletes were not seasoned competitors but with some good training sessions at the dojo and lots of tournament preparation, the results were more than tremendous.

AOK's final medal count was 2 GOLD, 4 SILVER, 7 BRONZE!

Congratulations to all who participated and to all of our loyal supporters who came out to cheer our team on as many competitors they made their competition debut.

AOK west hills also participated in the Games earning 3 bronze medals all for the Hojati Family.

What makes this even more special was the SURPRISE participation of Shihan Bruce Hojati.

Shihan Hojati just coming off a gastric bi-pass surgery less than 9 months ago and 120 pounds lighter stepped into the ring after 12 years of absence from competition.

Shihan Hojati performed the Kata Goju Shiho Sho and did very well considering the odds were against him. Shihan Hojati also demonstrated some vigor and courage by stepping it up in the Kumite division by winning his first 2 matches and placing 3rd in what was a very challenging group of
talented and tough participants.

Congratulations Shihan! For your display of leadership and spirit. You are not only a true Karate-ka but an huge inspiration to myself and all those who know you well and understand the challenges you have been through in recent years.

Oss!

Shihan Hojati's Kata Performance
Goju Shiho Sho

New Facility for AOK!!!

2010-06-20T11:28:00.000-07:00

The Academy of Karate in Duarte has moved to a NEW bigger and better Facility! The new Academy is located on 2310 Central Ave. Suite # 1 and is right across from Gordon Sports Park which hosts many softball and soccer events throughout the week. Needless to say, you will like the new look.

The new dojo features TWO fully matted training areas, a reception area with a pro-shop, an extra changing room for convenience and a staged seating for observers to enjoy the classes to go all the heavy bags and training tools one could ever wish for in a martial arts experience.

The main training area is designed for Karate training and lagers groups and is covered with a 1 inch thick padded flooring while the slightly smaller mat is a 2 inch thick Tatami mat that is softer and ideal for our judo, grappling and MMA classes.

Come by to take a free tour of our facility and see what all the hype is about!!

We look forward to seeing you soon!

After School Program at Andres Duarte

2010-03-18T16:09:00.000-07:00

The Academy of Karate is proud to announce a new Karate after school program starting on Wednesday March 24th at the Andres Duarte School in Duarte California.

Classes are scheduled for Wednesdays and Fridays at 2:45 - 3:30 pm on school grounds.

Class rates are $60 per 8 sessions.

OR $50 per 8 sessions when you choose our Automatic renewal option.

If you would like to enroll in this fantastic program, give us a call at 626-599-1633.

You may also go the the office at Andres Duarte and submit your registration on site or you may visit us at our main academy at 2163 Huntington Dr. in Duarte.

CALL NOW, Space is limited!

After school Program at Royal Oaks.

2010-01-28T00:35:00.000-08:00

We are proud to announce that starting February 2nd, 2010, Shihan Joseph Claycomb and the Academy of Karate are starting a new after school program that will teach kids the benefits of exercise and life skills through Karate.

The Program is expected to have a high turnout and AOK will be hosting a Graduation Party for all participants.

The course will be 6-weeks in total and will include a Karate belt, t-shirt and sports bottle for the first twenty enrollments.

For more information about our program visit us on the web at www.duartekarate.com or contact Shihan Claycomb at 626-599-1633.

KNIFE Defense Seminar with Sensei Rick Duffy

2009-11-10T21:32:00.001-08:00

AOK will be hosting a Knife self defense seminar on Wednesday November 18th at 7 30 pm.

All are welcome to take part in this FREE seminar and we encourage you to invite your friends and co workers too. Everyone can benefit from learning self defense awareness and tactics to avoid serious injury.

Sensei Rick Duffy is the chief instructor if the Rancho Cucamonga - Universal Martial arts Centers "UMAC " and a close friend of mine as well as a great martial artist.

Sensei Duffy is going to be conducting this seminar as the first of many meetings between our two schools while strengthening the relationship between our academies for the sake of growth and progress in the martial arts.

For more information please contact me at 626-599-1633

To visit Sensei Duffy's website click here: http://www.umackarate.net

Lyoto Machida UFC 104 Workout

2009-10-25T18:16:00.001-07:00

FIlipino Martial arts Classes

2009-10-13T20:19:00.000-07:00

AOK is now hosting Filipino Martial arts classes in Duarte. Guro Jason Cruz is the chief instructor of Legacy Martial arts Studio and has been training in the martial arts since he was a child and is very passionate and energetic. Any and all who try just one class with Guro Jason love his intensity and knowledge. To try a Free class contact Jason at 909-575-8809 or visit his website at www.submissionkali.com

Classes are on Tuesdays and Thursdays 7:30 - 8:30 pm located at the Academy of Karate, 2163 Huntington Dr. Duarte, CA 91010

Hope to see you all there !!

Kawasoe Kihon Kata

2009-09-27T10:40:00.001-07:00

This is by far the best Video demonstration of Karate Fundamentals.
This is a 4 volume DVD series called the Kawasoe Way.

FINALLY! SHOTOKAN SUPREMACY IN THE UFC WITH IT'S NEW CHAMPION!

2009-08-06T00:39:00.000-07:00

THE ERA OF MACHIDA AND SHOTOKAN KARATE HAS BEGUN!!

It has been a long time coming in the world of MMA and CAGE fighting to finally witness the effectiveness of Traditional Shotokan Karate.

"My MIND is my sword and my BODY is my blade" - Lyoto Machida

Machida is now an impressive 16 wins and zero defeats in mixed martial arts competition, with his last two matches being KO's, which only goes to show that he is not only a good fighter but he is also an expert of his art.

Lyoto earned his black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jutsu in 2007 and is also proficient in SUMO. However, when you watch him in the ring you cannot help but realize that he is truly a shotokan stylist with more ability to be more elusive and quicker than anyone.

Many people like to discredit his Karate background as the main reason for his success and mention the fact that he is also a BJJ practitioner. The fact is, BJJ does not teach the footwork and lightning speed striking that seems to be the key to his success. Not only is he statistically the least struck in UFC history, Lyoto has also managed to keep the lowest rate of being struck by punches with no more than 1.5 punches per round to actually land on him.

That is impressive!

"The Spider" Anderson Silva is known to be the best fighter to ever fight in the UFC but even he has lost at least one round. Machida on the other hand still has not lost one round to date! (his most recent fight was his toughest test and he lost 2 very technical rounds against Shogun Rua but managed to take the match)

Say what you will about the man, he is boring to those who do not understand tactical fighting skills and strategies of traditional Karate, but he is very exciting to those of us who have been training the same techniques as Lyoto has for the last 30 years.

Just like the majority cheer for someone passing the guard on the ground getting ready to do some ground and pound, we cheer for his speedy footwork and tactical counter striking.

I think SHOTOKAN will gain a lot of popularity from Lyoto's success and I also believe that Lyoto is here to STAY!

Word is his brother is entering in to the UFC at the light weight divisions and he is been said to be much more aggressive than Lyoto. Watch out MMA world, Here comes SHOTOKAN Karate at its best!

New FAN PAGE for AOK on FACEBOOK

2009-08-06T00:36:00.001-07:00

We are happy to announce our new Facebook fan page. Please feel free to join our fan base as we keep you up to date with all of our events and activities.

We will be publishing new photos and videos as well.

Coming soon:

Technique and Kata Instruction Clips

Academy of Karate on Facebook

Great Success for all AOK students!

2009-03-29T03:44:00.001-07:00

I wanted to personally tell everyone that today was one of the most successful Rank examinations we have ever had our dojo.

All of our students did extremely well and showed why they deserve to be promoted. ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING!! and boy, did they all show GREAT EFFORT during all their exercises!

Congratulations are due to all AOK members & parents of our junior students.

The final results for all ranks will be available in a few days and we will have a celebration with everyone and a rank promotion ceremony and chow down some pizza afterwards...

Make Sure to tell all your friends about our test celebration and invite them in for a free class if they like what they see when you show them all your moves !

I will be announcing a date for the celebration as soon as possible.
I look forward to seeing you all there,

Best wishes!

Sensei

KATA SEMINAR SUCCESS !!

2009-03-08T01:45:00.000-08:00

SENSEI Claycomb Hosted a KATA seminar for AOK members to learn the intricacies of the basic fundamentals of HEIAN SHODAN, HEIAN NIDAN nad HEAIN SANDAN.

This seminar was designed for novice level students to take advantage of a private lesson caliber session that will help them prepare for their upcoming rank test examination.

Overall, we had a great time and a good workout. Everybody learned something about proper execution of technique and improved their overall understanding of each KATA.

AOK will be hosting future seminars for its advanced level students as well.

For more info, contact Sensei Claycomb to book your spot in the next session.

AOK starts Photography Services

2008-10-26T12:51:00.000-07:00

Sensei Joseph Claycomb is launching a new division of services at the Academy of Karate.

AOK PHOTOSHOTS is a photography service for MARTIAL ARTS action, TEAM Sports like soccer, softball & basketball, FAMILY Portraits, CAR shows, RACING & DRIFT events.

All Photo Packages will be introduced at very competitive rates with quality, variety and affordability at mind.

AOK Photo-Shot's first DOJO Plaque & Photo Shoot day will be FREE of charge to all AOK Members who wish to participate. Ask Sensei for more details.

Everyone will have the option to purchase pictures of the following sizes including 8x10, 5x7, 4x5 and wallets. Additional large print sizes include 11x14, 16x20, and even posters at 24x30 !

In addition to traditional studio photography, AOK Photo-shots will also provide digital backgrounds and special text effects for those who want to add to flair and spark to their pictures.

TEAM SPORTS:

For those of you who would like to have your child's games and special events covered, based on availability, AOK photo-shots will come to your games and take those action shots that you've always wanted for those ever lasting memories.

KARATE TOURNAMENTS:
As a member of the Academy of Karate, you will be potentially involved in many competitions and tournaments on a regular basis. What better way to capture those moments than with a trained photographer. How many times have you taken a shot that just was not the way you wanted it to turn out? Not enough light, not close enough or too blury?

Sensei Claycomb not only gets the action when it happens, he also preserves the quality of the action!

SPECIAL BACKGROUNDS:
If you like adding different backgrounds to your images, AOK photoshot can help you out. for an additional service fee, You can have your images added to any background.

RACING EVENTS:
Sensei Claycomb is a Fan of Drifting and CAR shows, So shooting this type of action is not only fun but the final products are also very exciting!

Take a look!

AOK students promoted and receive awards.

2008-06-10T21:39:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to all of our students who passed their rank examinations this past weekend.

I have seen a noticeable improvement since everyone's last examination and I look forward to even more growth and progress in the future for everyone.

On the day, many people were nervous about their testing but managed to show patience and perseverance to get through the challenge of performing under pressure.

Everyone's techniques were crisp and their KATA were performed with good rhythm and timing.

I wish for all of my students the best of luck and success for many years to come.

My advice to everyone is to keep training and practice every chance you get, even if it is only for a few minutes at a time. Everything you do counts toward your goals and your journey to black belt excellence.

Just remember that If you put your mind to something, DON'T give up and see it through, one day you will LIVE your dreams.

Congratulations to everyone and good luck!

Oss!

Undefeated in the MMA - Shotokan stylist Lyoto Machida

2008-06-04T07:51:00.000-07:00

One of the most misinformed views in the MMA scene is that many people are under the impression that martial arts such as Traditional Karate-Do are not as effective as other martial arts in the ring. In fact many think that grappling and kickboxing skills are the standard to a consistent record of success.

Regardless of opinion or preference, it is safe to say that every method of fighting has its advantages and it is the person who can wheel his craft to his advantage vs. another fighter that makes the superior fighter.

Another uninformed opinion is that Traditional Karate-Do is simply a one dimensional art, when in fact it is one of the very first, if not THE "original" mixed martial art of modern times. Not only does Karate-do offer a variety of principles within its teachings, but it is very practical and approaches things from a no non-sense and strait forward mentality.

Karate teaches a variety of techniques ranging from striking and kicking, to leg sweeps, take downs and some basic grappling as it also incorporates joint locks and manipulations as well. All of these techniques were at one point adapted from other arts but are now considered Karate Techniques.

One person who has proven himself in the MMA world is a SHOTOKAN Karate Stylist

by the name of Lyoto Carvalho Machida.

Lyoto is a Brazilian professional mixed martial arts fighter and is the 3rd son of Japanese-Brazilian Shotokan Karate master Yoshizo Machida. Lyoto is considered by many to be a rising star in MMA, having secured victories over many UFC and PRIDE Champions from the likes of Tito Ortiz, Rich Franklin, B.J. Penn and Light Heavyweight runner-up of the UFC's The Ultimate Fighter 1, Stephan Bonner.

Machida is still undefeated in MMA and the UFC with an impressive record of 16 - 0 and is now the current Light Heavy Weight Champion!

Lyoto is noted for his SHOTOKAN oriented style of evasive movement and quick counter striking. Many opponents find Lyoto's methods to be unorthodox and difficult to figure out.

In Addition, he currently trains with such fighters as UFC Middleweight champion Anderson Silva, former UFC Light Heavyweight champion Vitor Belfort, and former PRIDE FC and current UFC Interim Heavyweight champion Antonio Rodriga Nogueira.

Machida's most recent fights were victories over Tito Ortiz, Tiago Silva (KO), Rashad Evans (KO) and Mauricio Shogun Rua (unanimous decision)

Lyoto began his SHOTOKAN training with his father master Yoshizo Machida at the tender age of four, earning his black-belt "SHODAN" at the age of 13. He began training in Sumo at 12 and Brazilian Ju-Jutsu at 15.

Lyoto has won a number of amateur karate tournaments, including the 2001 Pan American Karate Championships. He was also runner up in the 2000 Brazilian Sumo Championships in the 115-kg division. At 16 - 0, his MMA record speaks for itself.

Whenever he is asked about his fighting style, he is always thankful for his extensive Shotokan foundation.

While watching his fights, it is easy to recognize his Karate like methods of attack, elusive footwork "Tai Sabaki", leg sweeping "ashi barai" take downs and lightning speed punching.

Another great skill Lyoto possesses if his ability to avoid shooting attacks and takedowns from other grappling based fighters. These are all tactics he utilizes to systematically dismantle his opponents which has led him to an undefeated record.

Athletes Honored at INNER DOJO Sparring Tournament

2008-04-22T00:43:00.000-07:00

Michael Claycomb, Xena Mohammed and Karina Cisneros were the 1st, 2nd and 3rd Finalists respectively at AOK Duarte's Sparring Championships last Friday the 18th of april 2008.

Everyone who participated displayed great improvement and demonstrated tiger-like attitude in their desire to win the gold. Needless to say, this was the best performance from our students and the most entertaining and exciting event we have experienced at AOK Duarte to date.

It was the 4th Inner-Dojo Tournament in Duarte and the 2nd sparring competition overall.

Our next competition will be the KATA Championships on Friday May 30th, 2008. We look forward to intense and thrilling performances from all or our athletes.

Don't Miss It! See You There!

Black Belt Magazine Photoshoot

2008-04-10T14:28:00.000-07:00

Upon the return from the US Open Karate Championships at Caesar's Palace, Sensei Claycomb was invited to assist in a photo-shoot session at Black belt Magazine with Sensei John Fonseca.

Sensei Fonseca is the Current USA National Karate Team Captain as well as the the owner and Chief instructor of Fonseca Martial Arts . Sensei Fonseca has earned many national and international competition awards, He is the only male athlete in the world to win repeat gold medals at the Pan American Championships, as well as the only American karate athlete to win the Paris Open.

The Photoshoot took about three hours to complete, but after alot of action shots and sparring combination thrown it was all over with. Needless to say, the shoot was a great success and many of the shots came out very impressive.

Look for Sensei Fonseca's Article in Black belt magazine in the next few editions. It will be covering Winning Kumite Combinations for tournament sparring.

Below is a video clip of Sensei Fonseca in Action! Check it out!

Sensei Mark Kupsz visits AOK

2008-03-28T23:25:00.000-07:00

Sensei Mark Kupsz of the Burleigh Shotokan Karate Club in South Wales flew in to Los Angeles to visit Sensei Claycomb after 13 years of seperation.

During the time of his visit, sensei Kupsz conducted a few training sessions at the academy of karate in Duarte as well as taking a road trip to Caesar's palace to watch the US OPEN Karate Championships over the Easter Weekend in Las Vegas.

Sensei Kupsz was Sensei Claycomb's First mentor in Shotokan Karate when he started his training at the Awali Shotokan Karate Club in Bahrain back in the 80's.

Now with both sensei's running their own schools, they plan to strengthen their professional relationship in hopes of building an international Karate alliance between the USA, WALES and Bahrain as well as continuing to build upon their friendship.

for more information about Sensei Kupsz's dojo in Wales , just visit their website at www.burleighskc.com

or you can browse sensei claycomb's profile page at AOK's website at www.academyofkarate.net

Tekki Sandan reply on the shotokan way

2008-03-27T18:30:00.000-07:00

Tekki Sandan blog from the shotokan way

Here is a copy of a blog from the shotokan way that i replied to ...
so i am only attaching what i responded with ..

The poster wrote:
I'm currently studying Tekki Sandan. I was taught when you do the morote uke, the left hand open on the forearm that you should kick mae geri straight ahead.

I'v seen videos and pictures for example of many JKA Instructors who simply just raise their knee.

What is the general happening here?

My response:
Hello everybody...

I would like to add to this topic from a neutral stand point of view.. although that might seem difficult...

In Tekki Sho-dan , Ni-dan or San-dan.. the kick that everyone is talking about is found in all three Kata. If i am discussing the same kick.

Since the only kick referred to as a fumi-komi to my knowledge is found only once in San-dan on the final sequence with the right leg, twice in Ni-dan on left and right and twice in Sho-dan on the left and right leg all following the kagi tsuki's. going into an uchi-ude-uke.

In kata, the fundamental movements of each technique are performed for the sake of training the body to do certain motions or movements..

I dont personally think there is a correct way or a incorrect way to execute any given technique in any Kata after you have obviously built a solid foundation for the basic movements. Again we are talking about the finer points of tekki not the general idea... I think there are many different ways and all are correct.

I think it is a matter of preference.... the fact that every well known and high ranking sensei teaches a different way, tells us that everything goes back to preference. Some teach uchi-mikazuki-geri, some teach mae-geri and many teach it as a fumi-komi.

With that said.. I strictly follow a committed means to learning.

Since many people have trained with multiple sensei's, myself included, I find it very difficult to determine what is the right way to do anything.. I think the easiest way is to follow what your Sensei says unless he tells you to start experimenting with things. but mean while your brain should be actively looking into it from a different angle all the time.

If at some point you find your self learning from someone else later on in your career then again by all means follow your sensei again.

Learn what you can from everyone whether it be this way or that way. When you have gotten to the point that you are looking for a deeper meaning, then you should simply try to apply each method you have learned and put it into application within your kata. I think that brings out the mental freedom of Kata.

Honestly, I don't think it matters what you do. So long as you are doing your techniques within the guidelines of the kata.

Now if you are exchanging a fumi-komi for a spinning hook kick then I would say you are doing something totally out of the question because it is not relevant to the Kata and has no validity.

But if it is a matter of mae-geri vs. fumi-komi or uchi-mikazuki-geri or Hiza-geri then i honestly feel it is a matter of preference since they all start with identical initial movement from the hip. They all require to lift the knee up to get anything going.

I have been taught Tekki Nidan and Sandan several ways. But if you go back to Nakayama's Kata, I think it is safe to say you are closest to the well.

My Sensei, Toshiatsu Sasaki is an 8th dan and a direct student of Nakayama. Needless to say, I follow his instruction without question.

Previous instructors have shown me Tekki differently, but never with a Mae geri. I have been taught it as a hiza-Geri as well as a mikazuki-geri.. but mostly I have been taught it as a Fumi-komi.

I also think many teach it depending on their own body, level of flexibility, and mobility.

Performing a hiza-geri I think is the easiest. Fumikomi seems much more difficult to do since you practically have to twist you leg out of socket with your hips remaining strait forward while in a kiba-dachi...lol

This takes a much longer time to master and become proficient at than the other ways. That might be a reason why variations came about.
But then again it could all be due to the different Oyo-waza that are translated from the movements themselves.

If you want my preference I believe it is a Fumi-komi because Nakayama taught it that way and it seems to flow better once you understand it and mold your body to execute the right way.

Thanks for the opportunity of this topic..
gook luck...

Oss
_________________
We are what we do repetitively, therefore excellence is a habit, not a single act

True Martial Arts compared to SPORT MMA

2008-03-27T17:58:00.000-07:00

I think the original purpose of the UFC was to compare each martial art against another. I also think that it was some what of an infomercial to create another mainstream market which has somehow evolved into MMA.

I like watching PRIDE the most. I feel the fighters are the most skilled and good over all at what they do but NOT anything special when it comes to martial arts.

One thing is for certain though.. not one fighter from any MMA circuit that i have seen is an authority in any particular art . Most fighters are not even black belts in anything.. just highly trained physical specimens. Not normal people. So comparing a true martial artist to a highly trained MMA Athlete is very out of the question.

I firmly believe it is impossible to completely compare any style of martial art to another. It is impossible because they are all so different. An orange is a fruit and so is a banana. Both are fruit but very different.

How can you compare them other than give a personal preference in taste? You can compare color, taste, nutrients, smell and so on but what determines them to be better?

In Martial Arts it is even harder because there are too many aspects to even attempt to compare. But the most common and basic comparison is between striking and grappling.

This is pointless in my opinion. I think in combat it goes to who makes the first mistake in a ring fight that determines who has the advantage to carry on to a victory. If a good grappler gets a hold of you then look out! On the other hand you better look out with even more caution to the great striking artist!!! Chuck Liddell is a good example of a fighter who knows how to avoid getting to the ground and punches the lights out of most of his opponents. He has won the light heavyweight title more than once using good striking.

But I would still not consider a credible authority as a good martial artist. He is a well-trained slugger and pit fighter. Take of the gloves, mouthpiece and cup and use practical martial arts methods in the street and he would then appear to be more normal than we would expect. This goes to any MMA fighter in my opinion.

If a MMA fighter is to depend in his striking ability in the street then he needs to develop proper body mechanics, to know that the quickest way to a target is a strait line and also consider other uncontrollable factors like: no mats, no cage, hard ground to think about when getting slammed to the floor.

I guarantee that any human being will start to worry about the ground after hitting it while getting a concussion because he thought he was still on a mat, in a cage and in a controlled environment.

A real fight only lasts a few seconds. There wont be too much hugging on the ground getting hurt by the asphalt, rocks, glass and other hazardous things you find in a parking lot.. Let's not forget CURBS and PARKING DIVIDERS.

Most traditional martial artists train to avoid being taken to the ground and are pretty good at it after a few years of training.

The problem with people who are quick to judge traditional Martial arts as ineffective have no clue of what it takes to become a skilled practitioner because of their lack of patience to go through the process that it takes to to learn real self defense. So they turn to the sport of MMA thinking it will give them what they are looking for and are convinced of its superiority only after a few months.

Since there are rules in the ring, the bottom line is that MMA is sport oriented and not real combat.

We must remember this point before anything. If it is not a sport, then anyone should be able to get in a ring and fight, scratch, gouge eyes, pull cheeks, strike groin and collapse your esophagus and attack very vital points of the body in order to disable an opponent. Then it is no longer a sport and the risks are much higher. We might as well be in the games in ancient Rome at the coliseum entertaining Julius Caesar himself!

But since there ARE rules, then MMA should be considered a sport that is regulated in a controlled environment. So in short, it should be considered a sport with a combative attitude yet still far from REAL COMBAT.

That does not mean that none of these fighters are skilled at what they do. In fact, they are very skilled and more than amazing.

But to call MMA a mixture of martial arts is blasphemous when there is no standard to the level of any art practiced. No one is even close to being an authority in any art. The Gracie's practiced BJJ. Not MMA. If anyone were to be remotely considered a credible martial artist it would be one of the Gracie's. But to think BJJ is better than other arts I would seriously have to beg to differ. Again all arts provide an advantage in certain situations, but in the street it is way different than on a mat for an hour. Anything can go wrong no matter how good you are and no matter what you practice.

We should all remember the basic principles of true BUDO in the martial arts and what they can offer to us. Not try to knock one art for another.

Of course we are not talking about Mc Dojos and their commercial take of what real training is, only schools of credible and authentic training.

Good training!

Oss!

Why Knife Hand? AKA the "Karate-CHOP!"

2007-11-08T00:20:00.000-08:00

Knife hand block for many people is such a difficult technique to perform and understand from a self defense perspective.

One reason it may be so misunderstood is the unnatural position of the body when moving in a back-stance. Back stance it self is a very difficult stance to ultimately perfect and become totally comfortable with.

Yet knife hand is one of the most important techniques you will ever have to learn in the martial arts, especially Shotokan Karate.

From my experience, the more you learn, the more you realize you need to go back to basics and start all over again. That to many people may seem very frustrating and time consuming. Why should anyone become proficient at Knife-hand when it is less practical than many other techniques? Or is it more practical than we think?

From a less experienced practitioner's point of view one may think it is physically frustrating because it is very difficult to get any power from it since it utilizes smaller muscles like the shoulders and back when delivering a strike or a block.

It is also very difficult to block an attack in a strait line moving forward or backwards. Back stance is also very difficult to achieve balance with since your feet are in a strait line, let alone the lack of ankle flexibility many people experience when attempting to lower their center of gravity.

When it comes to applying it, the question is how would someone use this in a real fight? What would make me think of such an unnatural technique when I am going through an adrenaline rush at the heat of the moment, or a life threatening situation? In Kata it is also done in sequences of (3) three in a row? How does that work and why in a strait line? Why would anyone on earth attack you going backwards in a strait line, let alone do it three times in a row?!! So HOW would this technique be affective or useful when in reference to all the above questions?

Here is my answer to each of these questions one at a time, are you ready?

This is my personal opinion and many may disagree. But it leads to a healthy debate if anyone chooses to interact.

1. Physically

Generally speaking, Shotokan Karate techniques are very difficult to master and knife hand is no different. So needless to say there must be a reason why such unnatural techniques like Knife-Hand-Block/Strike are so important and focussed on throughout a person's career as a karate student from the very beginning.

One reason is that it is fitness oriented. If performed regularly, knife-hand can be extremely challenging on the back, shoulders and chest as well as the torso. The torso is worked by keeping the hips in a 45^ angle while twisting the upper body beyond 45^ which definately can tighten the ( Latissimus dorsi ) "Lat" muscles. The chest can be exercised by the prepping action of the arms before the technique is executed. The back and shoulders are exercised by the actual sword like action of the prepped arm and the re-action of the pulling hand which in turn works the Lats again.. This applies to many other techniques too.

In regards to power of striking or blocking, it was NOT developed to be the most powerful part of your arsenal of techniques, but it was developed rather for the sake of targeting softer targets of the body like the carotid artery which doesn't require much power to damage. However, if thrown with a decent amount of force, knife-hand can cause quite a bit of damage to the collar bone or even the temple because of its sword-like course of motion and because the edge of the hand is used when delivering a strike. So after years of practice one can see the benefits.

2. Back Stance,balance and flexibility, low center of gravity.

Stances in Shotokan are the most important part of anyone's foundation of fundamentals. All stances have a significant purpose. Back-Stance helps learn better balance and felxibility which is why it is hard to transition to and from if you are not comfortable with it. Stepping in a strait line obviously is a balance test in itself but also it allows the hips to sit in a 45^ degree angle in order to deliver a knife hand technique because the feet are in a 90^ angle when in a proper completed transition.

Below is a great Video that displays some of the technical requirements to execute a proper Shuto Uke.

Try executing a knife hand in a horse stance or a front stance. You might find your self even more uncomfortable because horse stance does not allow any hip twist when stationary and in a front stance it might feel funny because knife hand requires the hips to twist until facing forward in order to transition forward which also requires the knees to practically close midway to enable the hips to twist and the feet to pivot at the half way point, This is extremely difficult to do in a front stance when moving at a higher speed forward and when most of the weight is on the front leg.

Also try getting any power from it with your hips strait forward and you will find that your arms are the only thing generating power and not your body. Try twisting to an angle that is needed for knife hand and you will soon find that since your feet are not in a strait line you will not get as much of the angle you need in a knife hand to deliver a decent strike with the proper hip anti-rotation.

3. Applying it in a real situation
Well, in a real situation I have to say that the knife-hand is like any other technique. It is a follow up technique and not the initial one. The initial block is actually the prepping hand,which could also be just a simple parry "Nagashi-Uke" not the knife hand itself. The re-action hand is actually used to deflect an attack. "Go-No-Sen" (Block with an immediate counter attack) is then what you are actually performing. This principle I believe applies to all other so-called blocks. They are all explained as blocks but in reality they are actually hidden techniques of striking, joint locking and takedowns. AHA !

4. Adrenaline rush
In the heat of the moment anyone can lose it. Someone who has been training for years might mentally lose it to a degree, but they may also manage to keep their calm to a certain degree as well. One thing is for certain. Your mind does not always have control of your body once your adrenaline starts pumping. But there is a reason why we do things thousands of times. As boring as it may seem to be so repetitive, we are actually doing more than one thing. We are developing what is called muscle memory and densifying our bones at the same time. When in a dangerous moment, even if the mind has less composure the body will still be able to react with certain actions if it were to be trained long enough to do so. Not only will our bodies be stronger upon delivering a technique to someone, but we will not depend on the mind as much either. This is when things become natural body reactions rather than a conscious mental reaction.

Our bones will also be denser because they are a state of calcification when we move them consistently which densifies and toughens them. This is why athletes statistically have fewer broken bones.

So not only will you have a better physical reaction to an attack, but you will also be striking them with a harder, denser part of your body.

5. Kata and Backwards attacks

Finally in Kata, Knife-hand as well as many other techniques are done in multiple sequences usually in 2 or 3 of the same technique in various parts of a Kata. Example: Hiean-Nidan and Kanku-dai. Their purpose is to develop balance on both sides of the body and to allow a fair amount of repetition to the given techniques, not to mention the whole exercise part again.

Not everything in Karate was meant to be understood as a self defense explanation. Many people try to over analyze every single technique in a Kata. Some things were simply developed for repetition, fitness and conditioning. Others were for the sake of introducing a new method and technique for the body to initially start getting used to.

Simplifying forms and adding a sense of symmetrical structure helps ease the learning process of each Kata and the ability to hand them down from one generation to the next. Additionally, when many people wish to remember the same Kata or form, it is much easier for the masses when something is symmetrical rather than random and uneven. Hence, another reason all Shotokan Kata start and finish on the same spot.

Anything standardized will be systematic and easier to follow. As for backward attacks, well they are really not backward movement attacks, but they seem like that when you do 3 of the same technique in a row moving forward demonstrating a defensive technique getting punched at. Many people explain the (Bunkai) application as it were blocking a backward moving lunge punch attack just to show beginner students what they are doing so they can comprehend it at the present time. However, later on things are shown individually. This if for the more advanced students are eventually ready to understand how thing really work because they developed working comprehension of technique. So then the (Bunkai) or (Oyo waza) would be shown as if it were simply deflecting an attack and then stepping into the opponent with a strike.
The Kata just demonstrates the easiest way to get a series going by either moving in a forward or in a backward direction. Again they are structured like this for simplicity, symmetry, fitness and let's not forget coordination.
Because while some individuals may learn things faster and have an easier time physically, many people flat out need the repetition just to get their bodies to do it correctly.

So there you have it . Hope you have a better understanding of the whole "KARATE CHOP" Theory and why it is so focussed on when many UN-experienced people tend to consider it is a useless technique, It is quite the opposite. I myself consider it to be one of the most vital and deadliest techniques in all martial arts.

Oss,

Good Training,

Sensei Joseph Claycomb

Safety gear and Shobu Ippon vs. WKF Rules

2007-10-28T19:29:00.000-07:00

I wrote this in response to a friend who had sustained a serious injury at their dojo because their sensei did not allow protective gear while participating in Kumite training.

She was told that protective gear was not good for traditional training methods and that it did not allow people to learn real self defense while training for kumite.

Here are my thoughts on subject:

Safety should always be first when it comes to competiton sparring and especially when sparring in the dojo.
I feel too many modern day traditionalists don't make safety their top priority when it comes to sparring.

This is the case when Kumite training is allowed and conducted without obligating students to wear the proper protective equipment they need in order to minimize and prevent injuries while training.

This happens to be the mindset of many "old school" traditionalists who still think sparring is actually fighting when in fact they need to realize this could not be any further from the truth. At least when it comes to kumite and competition...

If we want to keep a forward thinking mentality about sport Karate then we should follow the same vision and mindset of the most forward thinking and innovative person in Karate history - Sensei "Masatoshi Nakayama". It is due to his vision that sport karate even exists and has achieved worldwide popularity.
Sport Karate is also the reason why many of us study karate today.

If it were not for Sport karate, how many poeple would have never been exposed to the martial arts or Karate?

Sensei Nakayama introduced sport karate and the first point system back in the 50's & 60's.

In the beginning, competitors did not use any protective gear when competing. That soon changed after a few people were seriously hurt.

When realizing this, some safety issues were addressed and the necessary changes were made.

Now 40 years later, The science of every sport known to man has dramatically changed, so wouldn't it be the case for karate ?
Societies and people are so different nowadays. So why is it hard to think that the sport aspect of Karate has changed, evolved and progressed as well?

Sparring in competition is not combat and to think that we should not wear gear while competing is ridiculous.
Let's face it ... injuries should never occur due to not wearing gear or lack of prevention.

If any injury were to occur, it would be much easier to emotionally handle knowing that it was purely an accident with the appropriate protective gear ON .....gloves and mouth piece ect, ect ,.. Not using the right gear also increases the risk of injury quite a bit.

In reality, accidents happen, but they should only occur after taking all the right precautions before hand. Not wearing protective gear is asking for something to happen... as mentioned before... Kumite "sparring" is not combat, it is sport with a combat essence or attitude.

Real combat is when you fight for your life, not a point.

Combat should never be mistaken for a sport, and there is no such thing as combat with a sportsman like attitude either. Combat has only one purpose, to defeat the enemy in front of you to save your own life.

Ever since karate developed as a sport it has constanlty been evolving. So to say that we need to spar with out gear is like defending our selves without any training.?!?!

In addition, too many "Traditionalists" think that shobu ippon rules are the most suitable for competition. Many are against trying the Current WKF Rules. They also tend to think that putting on protective gear in competition lessens it's integrity.
Maybe this a one of the reasons that there is so much politics in sport Karate. Everyone has their opinion.

It is a close minded way of thinking not to at least try something. Competition is no different. Maybe the reason many think gear is not important for their students is also because they think the Shobu rules are superior and the athlete back in those day were true warriors... Who knows?

One thing is for certain, the only thing mandatory in the current shubo ippon rules is a mouth piece and gloves. A groin Cup is optional.

The new WKF rules simply put safety first. there is no preference for that.

Coincidentally the criteria of what determines awarding a point in the WKF rules is much more demanding than Shobu Ippon as well.

Example; Sportsmanship attitude, Awareness, Correct form, Balance, Control of technique, Vigorous application.

Also a single scoring techniques "Ippon" in the WKF rules must be at least 90 % correct in order to consider it worth awarding it a point. Anything less than that is not even considered whereas in the old Shobu ippon rules, a landed technique was awarded a half point "wazari" if it was considered a good technique but below 90% correct and accurate. Points were also scored in movement going backwards or even when a competitior was off balance or falling.

Therefore the WKF rules require athletes to be a more resourceful and develop a more well rounded game plan and polished skills when competing as well as executing accurate technique.

I would have to disagree with anyone who thinks that Shobu ippon is the best set of rules and method of competition.

I DO think it is A GOOD Method, just not the BEST.... I believe all rules of competition are fantastic to compete with and train in.

Training with each set of rules rather than just one system helps change up the atmosphere and learn to deal with different scenarios when competing, which also reflects on their overall ability as a martial artist.

"Shobu Ippon", "Shobu Sanbon", and the new WKF 8 point rules.. are all great ... each one has its own qualities.... We train in all three formats at our Dojo .. with GEAR ON.. We even have gear on when we are not sparring .. We go through the motions while learning, training and engaging each other, not intending to blast someone but trying to learn to execute correct technique.... each student learns what they need to do in order to get better.. at the end of the day, we spar... no one got hurt... This lets us spar with out worrying about getting hurt....and it is alot of FUN!

In my opinion if karate is to keep growing, we all must understand that sport and combat are two different things.

Safety should always be FIRST in regards to sport or any activity.

Being good in the ring does not mean you are a great fighter in real life or real life threatening situations.
I do think that a black belt student should be able to take a little sting and a little pain in sparring but not to the point of injury.

Until all karate enthusiasts come together in this point, what happened to the JKA will continue to happen to karate as a whole..

So many people dont like the new rules because they are under the impression that the competitors are holding back too much....I have had many instructors express this to me but have never stepped in the ring to find out nor have they had any of their students compete in WKF ruled competitions.

Anyone who has competed in a WKF tournament knows that they are not holding back. Athletes think of control but use vigorous application while delivering their techniques..
They also use many types of footwork, timing, evasive movement "tai sabaki" and there is more awareness required "zanshin" since not everyone fighting in the ring is going in a strait line ONLY to RELY on the Good'Ol reverse punch to save the day like many from the JKA once did.

Nowadays athletes actually move around side to side and like some friends of mine and myself included like to land a hook kick every now and then. Grappling and ending the sequence with a finishing technique is also a big part of the game.... whereas it is almost non existent in the Shobu Ippon Game.

It all boils down to this ...You can always drive a vehicle without a seat belt and not get into into an accident. But what if you do get into one?, I bet you will wish that you had put on your seat belt first.... right ?

As far as thinking that the old rules are better than the new rules, but you have never gotten in the ring to see, well isn't that like stating that a certain type of food does not taste good but you never tried a spoonful of it kind of the same thing?

Just my guess.

Safety First Always !

Good Training, Always in BUDO.
Oss

Self Defense Seminar in Bahrain

2007-10-10T13:55:00.000-07:00

Here is the newest video i have produced.. this was a course i conducted in Bahrain at the British Club of Bahrain.

Please give me your thoughts and let me know what kind of techniques would you like to see in the next video.

Cheers,

Sensei Claycomb