My Kenshusei Journey by Glenn Riley
On March 1, 2016 I traveled to New York to begin the Kenshusei Course under WTKO World Chief Instructor Richard Amos Sensei. I stayed for the entire month, and lived at the Honbu Dojo.
My aim was to be the best Kenshusei I could be. I wanted to totally give 100% to what I choose to do. I knew that the duties would be carried out, both inside and outside the Dojo. I was totally focused and wanted nothing more than to throw myself into this course.
I wanted to keep everyone updated with my training, whether it be highs or lows, this is the result. Here are the posts taked from my Facebook group 'My Kenshusei Journey' along with the reactions, and support shown by peers, family and friends (which I have included). It meant a lot guys! I wanted this to be a honest blog, which it is!
I wish to thank Scott Langley Sensei for having the faith in me to do this, to Simon Bligh Sensei for all your support, and to Richard Amos Sensei for accepting me onto the course and my students for looking after my Dojo! Lastly to my ever supportive Wife and Son, thank you x
Osu
Glenn
FACEBOOK COMMENTS OF SUPPORT
Yanti Amos Osu Sensei Glenn it will be a transformative journey 🙏
Like · Reply · 4 · 3 February at 13:09
Jenny Cameron I am soooo looking forward to reading about your adventure 😃
Like · Reply · 2 · 3 February at 13:10
Glenn Riley Osu Yanti smile emoticon Really looking forward to seeing you very soon 😃
Like · Reply · 2 · 3 February at 13:12 · Edited
Ash Hawkes looking forward to regular updates. Well done on securing your 'once in a lifetime' opportunity and best wishes mate you'll have an awesome time out there 😃
Like · Reply · 2 · 3 February at 13:20
Ciarán Ó Maoláin Excellent. Sounds brilliant. Enjoy
Like · Reply · 3 · 3 February at 13:20
Glenn Riley Many thanks Ash.
Like · Reply · 1 · 3 February at 13:21
Dan Jones Looking forward to the updates Glenn 😊
Like · Reply · 1 · 3 February at 13:24
Yanti Amos Ha ha I just saw your P.S. 👍🙏
Like · Reply · 2 · 3 February at 13:40
Angelo Sanna Gambatte Kudasai Riley Sensei. I am sure that all the hard work will result in a smoother Shotokan Karate addition to all your Great Effort so far in this Style of Karate/Life. God Bless. OSU
Like · Reply · 2 · 3 February at 13:51
Glenn Riley Many thanks Angelo Sanna Sensei 😃
Like · Reply · 1 · 3 February at 13:52
George Best Thanks for adding me Glenn. It's one more step in you're journey, walk the path train hard and learn it will be worth it when you walk out the other side Glenn. Osu G
Like · Reply · 1 · 3 February at 13:57
Angeline Kua Thank you for adding me on this post Sensei Riley. Looking forward to reading about your exciting journey. Gambatte-ne!
Like · Reply · 1 · 3 February at 14:11
Zack Stewart Osu, get ready for the yoga!
Like · Reply · 4 · 3 February at 14:23
Yanti Amos You were a natural Zack -Karateka are the best bc they know how to take direction and just say Osu ! 👍👍
Like · Reply · 3 · 3 February at 15:54
Arwin Mahindrakar Hi Glenn. Sound amazing. Best of luck
Like · Reply · 3 February at 15:12
Parmajit Bharj Don't worry about the dojo Sensei, enjoy every minute of this experience. I'm sure you will share your training with us when you get back.
Like · Reply · 3 · 3 February at 15:30
Scott Langley I'm sure Ross will read it with interest!
Like · Reply · 3 · 3 February at 15:51
Sandra Carr Thanks for including me in this, I am looking forward to hearing all about your life changing experiences 😀 Take care though x
Like · Reply · 1 · 3 February at 16:15
Steve King I look forward to following your experience . You are more than qualified for this and ready for the step up. Most of all enjoy
Like · Reply · 1 · 3 February at 17:16
Vicky Jennings We will miss you but we can't wait to hear about it! And I second what Karen said, the dojo will be very well looked after 😊
Like · Reply · 4 · 3 February at 17:24
Richard Mayes Good luck mate. Will be great.
Like · Reply · 2 · 3 February at 17:30
Tor Langley All the best. I'm sure you will have an amazing experience!!
Like · Reply · 2 · 3 February at 17:35
Michael Isaacs Look forward to following you. I know you will take everything in your stride and come back a better karateka for it. Enjoy the journey.
Like · Reply · 1 · 3 February at 18:03
Helen Thornham Yoga and Karate for a whole month 😃😃 very envious. I'll be drowning in new baby madness, but I want to hear about both bits please!!
Like · Reply · 1 · 3 February at 18:22
Kirsty Norman We will all look after Akashi for you Glenn. Don't worry. All your students will miss you but the knowledge and experience you will bring back to us will be priceless.
Good luck on your incredible journey.
Osu 💪🏻👊😃
Like · Reply · 3 · 3 February at 18:42 · Edited
Edward Ireland Look forward to the challenge Glenn, with you in Spirit. Your room in Dundee will have a spring clean before you get here lol. Updates will be great 😃
Like · Reply · 1 · 3 February at 20:05
Glenn Riley Looking forward to visiting you again Edward Ireland 👍
Like · Reply · 1 · 3 February at 20:30
Ray Stritch Fantastic opportunity Glenn Riley make the most of it Osu 😉👍🏻👊🏻
Like · Reply · 1 · 3 February at 20:44
Mark Davy Enjoy the experience Glenn.
Like · Reply · 1 · 3 February at 20:51
Shelly Collinson Your dojo will be in safe hands.
Good luck and enjoy every minute of it xx
Like · Reply · 1 · 3 February at 21:30
Paul Langley Good luck Glenn. All the best.
Like · Reply · 1 · 3 February at 22:02
Jean Riley We will all miss you lots the experience you will gain from this journey will be priceless one very proud mum love you lots xxxxxxx
Like · Reply · 5 · 7 February at 15:58
Glenn Riley
15 February
Two weeks from now I will be arriving in New York, reality really hit home today! My aim: To be the best Kenshusei I can be, I will totally give 100% choose what I do. I know that duties have to be carried out both outside and inside the Dojo. I am totally focused now and want nothing more than to throw myself into this course. Scott Langley, I consider as being my Sensei. I have known him for many years, respect his Karate, and joined WTKO as i trust him 100%. Obviously Simon Bligh Sensei steered me in the right direction! Since becoming a part of WTKO, my Dojo has just gone from strength to strength. A huge thank you to Richard Amos Sensei for accepting me onto the course.
👍38 You, Maya Jagger, Scott Langley and 35 others
Edward Ireland Will be with you in Spirit Sensei Glenn Osu!!
Like · Reply · 1 · 15 February at 21:15
Steve King We are all with you the WTKO family is with you in spirit Glenn Sensei Osu
Like · Reply · 1 · 15 February at 21:19
Simon Bligh Oh yes well just remember if you dont like it you can just give up and come home ..... oh actually you cant do that. I know you will give your best.. gambattee Glenn San.
Like · Reply · 2 · 16 February at 11:30
My journey started before I left England, preparing in my own dojo with my students, and alone...
Glenn Riley
28 February
Good Afternoon all,
My last post before I fly out to the WTKO Honbu on Tuesday. My little Garage Dojo pictured. I have learned that one does not need a a huge hall / Dojo, in order to work hard, improve technique, or to produce sweat. The Dojo can be anywhere, choose how big / how small the space may be. I am sure I am not the only one who regularly practices in the home (and often gets told off!!). I have trained 100% always, as I simply love Karate.
When I was accepted onto the Kenshusei course, I increased the level of intensity for both my personal training and that of my students. I always train with my class, as I love doing what I ask of them, it keeps my Karate alive. I enjoyed a great meal with my lovely Wife Sarah Craske yesterday evening, no phone taken, probably a first!!
Eager to turn my phone on when I arrived home, there was of course an email from Richard Amos Sensei. The email explained that when I arrive I will be training in two classes (really excited!). The next part of the email was the written reports. This is my main fear to be honest, although i know the training is going to be extremely intense. Explaining a certain aspect of Karate in the Dojo, whether it be Keri-Waza, Uke-Waza, Tsuki-Waza, or Tachikata, I do with ease, although my Sempai would almost certainly correct me, articulating onto paper is another challenge.
I was up early this morning, researching, downloading, printing off etc, a great way to get out of my comfort zone. Obviously I cannot disclose what the written reports entail, however, I have got to admit.... Pressure! I had a brief chat this morning with my good friend Simon Bligh (we do this most days!!). I will keep you updated!! Thank you for following my Facebook Blog.
Osu
Glenn
👍39 Maya Jagger, Sarah Craske Riley and 37 others
Simon Bligh Always happy to chat 😀
Like · Reply · 1 · 28 February at 15:53
Edward Ireland With you in Spirit. Glenn I have
Always been self motivated, like yourself. The writing will come to you Sensei 😀
Like · Reply · 2 · 28 February at 15:53
Basil Leeshue Stay focused and write from the heart . There is no right or wrong just self expression. .you will be fine . big hug from me 😀
Like · Reply · 3 · 28 February at 16:08
Glenn Riley Osu Basil Sensei 😀
Like · Reply · 1 · 28 February at 16:09
Paul Edge Murphy You reep what you sow and I'm so so pleased for you and know you will excel
Like · Reply · 2 · 28 February at 16:13
Karin Williams Wish I had a little garage! Have a good month, wonderful experience for you
Like · Reply · 3 · 28 February at 16:22
Dave Gisby Enjoy the ride Glenn Riley, I'm sure you will, all the best from me sir👍👴🏻
Like · Reply · 2 · 28 February at 16:24
Steve King I have my barn it's my own space. Enjoy the experience of the unknown space and grow
Like · Reply · 2 · 28 February at 16:41 · Edited
Sandra Carr Enjoy Glenn Riley Sensei. Bet you're sleeping so much, with nervous excitement and anticipation. What time are you off on Tue? Enjoy the journey no matter where it takes you and we'll see you when you get back xx
Like · Reply · 2 · 28 February at 16:38
Andrea 'Sam' Carbon Don't worry about the academic/theory side to it. Easy for me to say I know because I'm such a nerd and love research and writing but you will be fine. Promise. It's all inside of you. Speak with your voice and the rest will take care of itself. My dojo tends to be the park near where I live (all weathers) but the kitchen is close second. I can just about manage a kanku sho jump in it! 😃😃😃👊👊👊
Like · Reply · 3 · 28 February at 17:23 · Edited
Scott Haxby I have never trained with a more dedicated instructor than Glenn Sensei, he pushes himself to the limit along with his students every lesson. I am thrilled you have this opportunity, you truly deserve it.
I look forward to your posts and more so the knowledge you will gain and bring back to us all at Akashi.
Have a fantastic time Sensei.
Osu!
Like · Reply · 9 · 28 February at 17:23
Shelly Collinson I totally agree with the comment sensie Scott has written
Enjoy ur journey sensie glen Riley we will all miss you
Like · Reply · 6 · 28 February at 17:32
Glenn Riley Thank you Scott Haxby Shelly Collinson. 👍👍👍👍
Like · Reply · 1 · 28 February at 17:40
Ash Hawkes good luck with it all - enjoy the experience, best wishes 😀
Like · Reply · 3 · 28 February at 18:48
Russ Fisher Eloquently put Scott Sensei. It is extremely rare in any walk of life to meet someone so dedicated to their profession as Glenn Sensei, and so eager to impart their knowledge to others in such a positive way. (I was convinced he was trying to kill us all these last few weeks Lol 😀). Can't wait to see what Glenn sensei brings back to show us all at Akashi. Equally, keen to learn from the brilliant Seniors at Akashi while Glenn Sensei is away. 😀
Like · Reply · 6 · 28 February at 21:27
Kirsty Norman Well said Russ 😊
Like · Reply · 1 · 28 February at 22:17
Colin Needham Enjoy every minute Glenn Riley. It's an opportunity of a lifetime. I'll see you on Thursday evening and at the Winter camp.
Like · Reply · 1 · 28 February at 21:58
Glenn Riley Russ Fisher: many thanks for your support . I was not trying to kill anyone 😀
Like · Reply · 2 · 28 February at 22:48
Russ Fisher Lol. We have all survived... so far, even your Mum Jean, so we have been trained well 😀
Like · Reply · 1 · 28 February at 23:09
Glenn Riley
1 March
I arrive in New York at 13.35pm today. I will then train with Sensei at 5.30pm and again at 6.45pm. A tiring and exciting day ahead😀
👍28 You, Maya Jagger, Scott Langley and 25 others
Andrea 'Sam' Carbon I am expecting to to see an exhausted but happy Glenn Sensei picture later on tonight then. I'm sure Yanti Sensei will have all that side of it covered 😉👊👊👊
Unlike · Reply · 4 · 1 March at 08:49
Yanti Amos replied · 1 Reply Don't laugh... You're next Andrea 'Sam' Carbon 😜😉
Steve Bailes Good travels Glenn and we are all behind you and looking forward to hearing of your journey. Will be life changing for you I think !!
Like · Reply · 3 · 1 March at 09:11
Yanti Amos Richard will be at the lycée teaching when you get here but I will welcome you and show you around 🙏
Like · Reply · 1 · 1 March at 10:58
Glenn Riley
1 March
The day has arrived 😁
👍31 You, Maya Jagger, Scott Langley and 28 others
Raphael Roger Levy Enjoy!!!
Like · Reply · 1 · 1 March at 08:05
Michael Isaacs Have a safe and wonderful journey.
Like · Reply · 1 · 1 March at 08:05
Andrea 'Sam' Carbon Enjoy! Safe journey. x
Like · Reply · 1 · 1 March at 08:06
Ray Stritch Best of luck Glenn Riley 😉👍🏻👊🏻
Like · Reply · 1 · 1 March at 08:06
Vicky Jennings Safe flight. Let us all know when you land! 😀
Like · Reply · 1 · 1 March at 08:06
Mark Davy Let the journey commence
Like · Reply · 1 · 1 March at 08:11
Helen Thornham Lovely day to leave Yorkshire 😊 not that you'll see much of New York with your schedule! Have an awesome time
Like · Reply · 1 · 1 March at 08:26
Jimmy Bray Have a great time pal. See you on the other side!
Like · Reply · 1 · 1 March at 08:34
James Isaacs Have a safe flight, all the best!
Like · Reply · 1 · 1 March at 09:04
Scott Langley Good luck 😃
Like · Reply · 1 · 1 March at 11:32
Shelly Collinson Good luck x
Like · Reply · 1 · 1 March at 15:47
