One of their trainers, Ellis Reader, bought along his sword especially for Blake to see, touch and learn about. His very own special lesson! Ellis is a 1st dan black belt who specialises in Iaido (sword drawing).
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| One very excited Blake! Whangarei Ninjutsu, Onerahi (December 2016) |
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| Ellis showing Blake the 'stingray skin' markings through the handle Whangarei Ninjutsu, Onerahi (December 2016) |
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| Each part of the sword has it's own reference and name Whangarei Ninjutsu, Onerahi (December 2016) |
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| Ellis showing Blake the blade and how it is made Whangarei Ninjutsu, Onerahi (December 2016) |
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| Eager to feel the sword, Ellis shows Blake the techniques Whangarei Ninjutsu, Onerahi (December 2016) |
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| The 'locking system' .. the thumb to prevent it falling out Whangarei Ninjutsu, Onerahi (December 2016) |
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| Finally! Whangarei Ninjutsu, Onerahi (December 2016) |
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| Drawing the sword Whangarei Ninjutsu, Onerahi (December 2016) |
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| Very excited to have his own sword lesson Whangarei Ninjutsu, Onerahi (December 2016) |
Iaido is the Japanese Budo Martial Art that specialises in sword drawing - it emphasizes being aware and capable of quickly drawing the sword and responding to a sudden attack. Special attention is given to etiquette, posture, breathing and technical precision.
Iaido can be roughly translated to English as “being constantly (prepared), match/meet (the opposition) immediately”.... The primary emphasis in 'iai' is on the psychological state of being present (居). The secondary emphasis is on drawing the sword and responding to the sudden attack as quickly as possible (合).
Ellis went through and named the parts of his sword, what they were made of, and the ways to hold and draw the sword. A very special moment for a 7 year old who wants to be a sword maker when he grows up!
