Budogu Zen is very honoured to be able to interview with both Men's and Women's National Champion!
【Men's Open Champion - Shion Miyashita from Sturgeon Kendo Club】
- 3 Dan, practicing kendo for 8 years.
Q: What made you decide to start kendo?
A: I started kendo in junior high school when I saw the school's club introduction. I wasn't good at continuing one activity in general, but kendo helped me change and learn to be dedicated continue.
Q: What do you like about kendo?
A: It really brings out who you are as a person and shows the flaws, It’s very reflective of who you are. Also the effort of what you put into it shows great results.
Q: Your mindset going into the Canadian National Kendo Championships?
A: So many senseis and dojo members has supported me up to now. I've focused on doing what I need to do at that moment to respond to everybody's support.
Q: Any goals from now?
A: I would like to consider this championship as one of the stop and continue working hard to be selected in Team Canada. I also would like to give back to Alberta community to express my appreciation.
【Women's Open Champion - Betty Park from Renbu Kendo Dojo】
- 2 Dan, practicing kendo for 15 years.
Q: What made you decide to start kendo?
A: I started kendo with my dad when I was 7 and have been practicing for 15 years. In the beginning it was just something my parents signed me up for but I grew to really enjoy kendo. It taught me important life lessons and I was able to make many good friends.
Q: Your mindset going into the Canadian National Kendo Championships?
A: I was very nervous that I would be able to do my best under pressure. Especially as it was my first Canadian Nationals I didn't know what to expect.
Q: Any goals from now?
A: The tournament really showed me that I still have so much to work on and improve so I want to keep practicing hard with my teammates and sensei. I also want to keep meeting other kenshi from different places and learn from them.
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Congratulations!