An intense martial weekend in Gaspésie in excellent company…

For some, traveling 1800 km to train would be an ordeal, but in an enchanting landscape like the one offered by the Gaspésie, it is a pleasure!

Warmly welcomed by Hanshi Jean-Noël Blanchet, very simple and generous, and his sweet companion Brigite, kind and attentive, the table was set for an extraordinary weekend!

Already on Friday evening, after a 12 hour drive, we got to work and I presented my kata. Eishin Ryu as I was taught about twenty years ago under the watchful eye of my new mentor Iaido. His expert eye quickly detected differences, corrections and improvements to improve my sword practice. It had already been a few hours of training and it felt like 30 minutes. Some Bud and time to sleep!

I woke up on Saturday and after a few minutes of contemplation by the sea, a hearty lunch and discussions with people who were as passionate about martial arts as I was it was very satisfying, but it was only the beginning. Because it was time to go to Alain’s dojo which is splendid. Again, hours of practice nourish my practice iaido; after lunch, after dinner and even as a snackiaido before going to bed. The goal of moving forward in my practice of Jikiden Eishin Ryu muzzle it was already full and so were my knees!

On Sunday, although a secondary objective, I received with the utmost pride the recognition for my practice of the last 20 years, of 2^And damnation Hanshi White. After taking a few photos, we ended the weekend with one last training summary. A bite and we hung up our sabers for the visit and discussion during a short guided tour of the majestic Forillon Park.

I just got home after a long trip that was definitely worth it. Thanks again to Hanshi Blanchette for taking me under her wing in Iaido practice and to her partner who was very generous towards me. I look forward to doing this again for the rest of my martial evolution.