birthday beatdown

So, today was the boy's birthday. It was also a training night with the Ottawa Swordplay Club he is a member of. Many martial arts clubs have traditions that involve "combat" for various occasions.

Often when someone moves up in rank, someone moves away, anniversaries of special days, and, of course, birthdays. When I trained regularly with my Karate Club we had them too. One close friend of mine was sent back and forth across the training hall for about forty-five minutes by our Sensei when he left Ottawa for good. I have received beatdowns on my birthday as well. 

Of course, they are not mandatory, nor are they vicious. They are done in good spirits, in good humour, and meant as a sign of respect. Basically: We like you, so here's a smack. Normally, you are just tired after it all. Injuries are rare, and always accidental. Generally, they occur when the two people involved are very close friends and/or have a deep respect for each other. It is more of challenge offered and met by both individuals. However, generally, one fights the recipient at their level of skill regardless of their own. Sometimes a bit above or a bit below. Depending on the energy levels of the happy recipient and their efforts.

Words of encouragement are given to the recipient. They are lauded and cheered; told not to give up. It will be over soon. They know they can take pride in themselves when it is all over. As do all those participating. They take pride in the camaraderie and are proud of the person who "runs the gauntlet".

In the boy's case tonight, it was a pretty casual affair. He was to fight thirteen times. The number equal to his age as of today. Each fight was to be one pass, or one hit. The boy decided to do three passes, or hits, per fight. He followed his club's standard sparring method. So, he basically fought three times as much as would be traditionally required in his club. After his thirteenth, and last fight, he took off his mask and looked tired, yet was smiling. Good stuff, what? It is great when a club like this has a great deal of camaraderie.

I wish I was a member of this club. At least for today! ;o)

Happy birthday boy! blbbl