Being the obsessive-compulsive person I am it will come as no personal shock to admit I must (but not always do) perform reasonably well in big tournaments. There are two allied reasons for this – practice – way over and above the usual once-or-twice-a-week diet of people who have lives; and stubbornness. They bring distinct (perhaps even unfair) advantages.
This point two years ago in 2009 was about the time of my first Iaido tournament as a lowly kyu-grade. All fingers and thumbs, I proceeded through to the semis and was beaten by the tournament’s eventual easy winner, Jarrod Sibbison. He’s a sharp operator, injects his kata with precision and dignity. One of life’s true naturals and destined to become an inspirational teacher in a few years. As a quick aside, I should point out those who like entering tournaments usually observe their fellow peers who turn up for the Nationals and can assess their abilities. I know for an absolute fact that within my grade band there are two damn good people hailing from Victoria
Well, you can add to the previous two names one Julia Chay. I didn’t get the pleasure of meeting Jarrod or Ben in 2010 as they were in the opposite half of the tournament pool to me. Julia’s half of the pool. Julia disposed of both of them and, when lucky enough to scrape my way into the finals, I looked up and found her. Bugger, where did she come from!! Better luck in 2011.
This year I’m going to meet the same faces, with their ramped-up abilities and increased skills. I’ve sussed out how Julia beat me, fixed some flaws, made some major improvements and this year I’m not taking prisoners. Everyone will be put to the sword! Exits, stage right to sounds of maniacal laughter…..
Probably go out in the first round instead………
Victoria's Chikushinkai team. Jarrod is 2nd from left and Ben is fourth. Note the team's combined trophies from 2010.
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