OBJECTIVES

The Shotokai International Meeting is not a normal gasshuku. It is a co-ordinated effort by the Shotokai community around the world. It is therefore not 'led' by any one single group.

One of the unique features of the Art of Shotokai Karate-do is that it is constantly evolving. A practitioner, once they become seasoned in the Art, delves deeper by researching specific areas of the Art that is of particular interest to them. This diversity is, perhaps, the greatest strength of Shotokai. The sum total of all the research, discovery and learning by all the senior Shotokai karateka around the world is potentially so vast that no single individual could ever hope to achieve that breadth and depth of learning on their own in a single lifetime.

Yet, we all share common roots. Regardless of our chosen pathway in the Art of Shotokai, this common heritage and philosophy of research and evolution is what makes us one 'family'.

The Shotokai International Meeting (SIM) main objective is therefore to foster the bonds of friendship and mutual learning across the world Shotokai community.

The 1st SIM was held in Almada, Portugal in 2003 and was a warm and thoroughly enjoyable experience. That event was for adults. A similar Shotokai International Infants Meeting (SIIM) was held in 2008 and was equally enlightening.

We hope that this feeling of mutual respect and sharing of knowledge throughout the world Shotokai community can be continued in the 2nd Shotokai International Meeting held in London, England in 2009. Unlike the 1st SIM (2003) and SIIM (2008), the SIM this year will be a combined event for both children and adults.