The day began with shiai geiko in groups – each group guided by one or two senior kendoka per group. This was an informal way to give the competitors more experience of shiai before the actual competition.

In the afternoon, 42 Kyu grades from some 17 clubs competed in a well-fought and spirited contest. As in previous years, the prizes were awarded by Mr Andrew Lidstone, with other members of the Lidstone family present. Victor Harris sensei also presented a set of bogu which had belonged to Mr R. A. Lidstone to his descendant Bridget Phillips of Edmonton Kendo Club, Canada, who competed in the taikai.

A recording of the final match can be viewed here.

The day finished with jigeiko and then some food in the hall, with many moving on to the Rising Sun pub for social drinks.

We are most grateful for the kindness and generosity of all the seniors in making this a warm hearted and welcoming day for the beginners, including:
Jeff Humm s.
Alex Ansell
Bob Bartrop
Andrew Dean
Jeff Martin
Walter McCahon
Young Park (chief referee)
Vic Richardson
Clive Sinclaire
Joe Tsoi

Clubs participating:
Denshinkan
Eishin Juku
Edmonton, Canada
Hizen
Ichi Byo Shi
Imperial
Kenyukai London
Lancaster
Nenriki
Oxford
Portsmouth
Reading
Tora
Tsubaki
UCL
UKKC
Wakaba