As we are fast approaching the end of year’s grading opportunities, it is probably a good idea to take stock and see if you would like to purchase any budo equipment.

While uniforms are relatively quick to arrive, we have found that over the past 18 months, bogu and weapons including shinai, bokken, jo, and iaito have been taking a very long while to be sent. Where items are not in stock, or where customisation are requested, workshops in Japan have been slow due to the retirement of a number of senior crafters, and COVID-related bottlenecks.

I would ask that you have a serious think about anything you might want, and let either Sean or I know by mid-next week. This will hopefully give the remainder of October and November for items to arrive.

For those new, or relatively new to the Club, make sure that you ask your discipline coordinator or instructor for advice about what you need to get at a minimum and what things are most suitable for you to purchase/use.