It’s time to do it again – Sun 23rd June 2019 at dawn on St. Kilda Beach. Mark it in your diary and read the review of last winter’s training below.
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There’s nothing more inviting than St. Kilda Beach on a cold winter’s morning so it was with enthusiasm and vigour that fourteen members of the IGK Victorian Headquarters hit the beach at dawn with a golden full moon still high over the western horizon.
After a meditation in seiza in the crisp sand, a warm up, stretch and sprint saw the descent down the beach with basic kihon into the cold waters. Just like the memorable training on the same beach in 1991, it was a windless morning and the seas were placid.
Awase kumite followed which became slowly more spirited and difficult to deliver good kicks and movement against the resistance of the water. Those that slowed were reminded with amply rewarded take-downs to keep their circular movements and evasion.
After a half hour the limbs were slowing and the extremities were numbed. It was time for some photos, thawing out and a hearty breakfast that followed at the nearby St. Kilda Sea Baths. Removing the gis with frozen fingers was an effort in itself, not to mention the lack of hot showers.
Everyone enjoyed the experience and agreed we should make it a more regular event. It was a great morning and club building event. Did anyone mention the numb feet? Training with others is invigorating and the enthusiasm of the group is infectious. Who wants to be in a warm bed?