On July 27th, the annual open-air bukiwaza workshop led by Raman Bekarevich Sensei was held near the Martello Tower in Balbriggan. This year’s event, dedicated to Aiki-ken techniques, held special significance as it honoured the 75th birthday of Raman sensei’s teacher, Nemoto Sensei.

In recognition of his teacher's profound contributions to Aikido, Raman sensei began the workshop by sharing material that Nemoto Sensei had meticulously compiled and practised. So the first session was dedicated to Ken Sou Hou — a series of sword-handling exercises compiled by Nemoto Sensei based on the teachings and demonstrations of Morihiro Saito Sensei. This series does not assign individual names to each movement; it exists as a whole to explore the variety and depth of Ken manipulations, aiming to capture the spirit and precision of the Iwama tradition.

The afternoon focused on the First Kumitachi and its Henka Nigeki variations, where the final movement is intentionally altered. By stepping off the line of attack at 45, 90, and 135-degree angles, participants experienced how subtle positional changes affect distance, timing, and initiative. This exploration revealed how the form can be preserved even as shifting intent opens new possibilities for finishing the technique.

This workshop was also an opportunity to integrate insights from our recent Erasmus+ job shadowing mobility in Gothenburg. The pedagogical clarity, thoughtful session structure, and spirit of community engagement we observed there greatly enriched the day's keiko, beautifully linking international exchange with our local practice. The Takemusu Aikido Society is deeply grateful for the support of Erasmus+ and for the inspiration from the Gothenburg Aikido Club.

At the end of the workshop, each participant received a leaflet containing excerpts from an interview with Nemoto sensei, conducted by Raman sensei during his uchideshi stay in Iwama. These reflections provided valuable context on Nemoto Sensei's background and philosophy, perfectly complementing our technical work.

As the training concluded, the group gathered by the sea for a barbecue near the Martello Tower. Amidst easy laughter, shared stories, and good food, the informal atmosphere underscored a vital truth: that nurturing bonds of friendship is just as important as the discipline of practice.