On the 29th July, Mrs Hana Sekine, the daughter of the Budokwai's founder Gunji Koizumi, celebrated her 100th birthday. The Chairman delivered the many cards that had been sent to the Club and a bouquet of flowers from all at the Budokwai. 

We are delighted to reopen the dojos at The Budokwai after closing due to the Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. 

During the closure, we used the time to fully renovate and redecorate the building. New sustainable lighting has been installed, enhanced fire protection lining, and the entire building has been deep cleaned and 'fogged.' 

At present, we are operating a temporary, limited timetable of socially distanced classes. Currently, class sizes are limited to a maximum of 12, so please book ahead to avoid disappointment. 

Please note that at this time, entry is via Cavaye Place, exit via Gilston Road and there are no access to showers and saunas. This current protocol will be reviewed in line with UK Government advice. 

We look forward to welcoming you back in to the dojo. 

We are deeply saddened to hear that Belinda Petty has died. The following tribute is from Marion Woodard. Thank you to David Finch for sending us the picture below:

~
Belinda Petty was an amazing lady – smart, funny, articulate, caring, insightful and one of the leaders in refereeing. She was one of the judoka who trained at the Budokwai in the early 70s when ladies were only allowed to practice in the downstairs dojo. Belinda’s trademark was her false eyelashes which stayed on in spite of the fierce training sessions.
In 1975 the Budokwai ladies attended a referees’ course and, along with many others, Belinda passed.... and the dye was cast for her to become one of the UK’s leading female referees. She worked for many years at numerous Area opens and national events. She taught sports to teenagers some of whom had challenging backgrounds and behaviours … she treated all with fairness and respect.
She trained and examined referees and was a highly competent senior examiner who passed candidates only if their judo skills met the required standards. In the 70s - 80s there was active reluctance to select female referees to officiate at national senior men’s events – one of the reasons being that they would be unable to separate male players if the need arose. Belinda questioned this for 3 years until finally it was agreed that women could referee men at national events. This legal decision had an impact on the progression of ladies in refereeing worldwide.
So Belinda – on behalf of all female judoka, thank you for your inner strength, passion and determination about judo and fairness.
Marion Woodard