Wherever I go, anyone in need has a friend.
When I return, people are glad I am there."
by Robert L. Humphrey(Iwo Jima Marine & Bujinkan 10th Dan)
|
"Wherever I go, everyone is a little safer because I am there. Wherever I go, anyone in need has a friend. When I return, people are glad I am there." by Robert L. Humphrey(Iwo Jima Marine & Bujinkan 10th Dan) |
|
|
I have been a member of the Bujinkan, (divine warrior school) in total for over eight years.
There are many mis-conceptions concerning the art, mainly thanks to Hollywood's stereotypical Ninja assassin image. The Bujinkan itself is split into nine schools and although the full title of the art is Bujinkan Ninpo Taijutsu, It is often abbreviated to 'Ninjutsu' which is literally translated as meaning "The art of perseverance."
The Nine Schools
Togakure Ryu Ninjutsu
Gyokko Ryu Koshijutsu
Koto Ryu Koppojutsu
Takagi Yoshin Ryu Jutaijutsu
Kukishinden Ryu Happo Hikenjutsu
Shinden Fudo Ryu Dakentaijutsu
Gikan Ryu Koppjutsu
Kumogakure Ryu Ninpo
Gyokushin Ryu Ninpo
If you were to ask me how I got into it, I wouldnt really be able to tell you. It was just something that was meant to be. I was 14 at the time and had riden past the dojo on my bicycle, something about the place looked interesting, then the next night I was training and it all went from there.
My instructor, Alfredo Castan, is a 10th Dan Shihan and he is an extremely talented, well respected, inspirational leader, with a large heart and an open mind. He has trained all over the world and has been heavily involved with close protection, anti-terrorism and military activities and I feel privileged that he has aided in my personal development.
For more information concerning the Bujinkan, I strongly recommend the following sites:
The Tengu Dojo's Website
Dr Hatsumi's Honbu dojo and focal point of the Bujinkan
The Warrior Information Network
Above photo, shows, Alfredo Castan, Simon Gaunt and myself at a seminar in Chester.
(I've now chopped the dodgy beard!)