Hard to believe but as was pointed out to Sensei Merv this was the 7th "Holland" Easter course.

With Sensei Merv running a karate club in Holland since 2003 it was a natural location for members of the Portchester and associated clubs to travel to, for an annual long weekend course.

As with England, Holland has been experiencing strange weather patterns for several years. After several years of fantastic weather it was our turn to suffer the cold and rain.

Training took place at the Gouda club Dojo on Thursday evening (the 5th April), through to Sunday, with double lessons on the Saturday and Sunday.

What follows is of a general nature.

To view pictures of the training press here

To view pictures showing the social side press here

Elliott, a course regular for several years, was scheduled to share a tent with Liam (on his 3rd visit) in the back garden. Liam decided after one night that his sleeping bag was not up to the job and without fuss moved in to sleep in the lounge. Elliott braved it out with his "mountain equipment" for three nights before the artic conditions drove him back indoors.