History :

Formed Jan 4th1994 the CUA ..Caer Urfa Aikikai (South Shields Aikido). Caer Urfa is Roman for South Shields. We have been at the same venue for 30 years .  The class is held at Ocean Road Community Centre, South Shields. The centre is in the process of having a new sports hall extension built. I started Aikido in 1968 under Chiba Sensei when he first came to Britain. I have been with Gwynne Jones for the last 25 years and rank Shihan with the society. I am a senior coach with the Shin Gi Tai.

The Caer Urfa Aikikai came into existence on 4th January, 1994. Its purpose is to promote and teach aikido as a pure art in accordance with the principles established by the founder, Master Morehei Uyeshiba.

In recent years, aikido has become increasingly popular,which has led in turn to the creation of many independent aikido “associations”some of which,it can be argued, are practising styles which bear little if any resemblance to the aikido of Master Uyeshiba.The formation of the CUA therefore represents a commitment to the original ideals of the founder.

It is recognised however, that any individual’s style of aikido is as unique as his or her own handwriting. The CUA will therefore encourage individuality,but in the same way that handwriting must be a common language in order to be understood, the aikido of this club will also have a common reference point – the original teachings of the founder.

It is maintained that aikido is not a competitive sport it is an art of harmony. Although it is a martial art, the principles of that art are in accordance with the principles of nature. In the practice of aikido,this means that aikido is not a fighting art,but a method of neutralising aggression.

More importantly,the techniques of aikido are not ends in themselves.Each technique is but another step towards an understanding of the “Way”.There is a higher spiritual level,which each aikidoka is encouraged to attain through diligent study.

Further more the Caer Urfa Aikikai will be selective in the matter of whom it will allow membership. People of good character will be welcomed;members who abuse the privileges extended to them,or who bring aikido into disrepute will be excluded. Similarly,it is expected that all members will comply with the formalities and etiquette that characterise aikido training.

With regard to grading, the CUA does not offer “quick grades” or specific grades within any particular time period. All people progress in their training at differing speed,and therefore an ongoing assessment will be used, whereby individuals will be invited to be examined at such time that the senior instructors of the CUA are satisfied that they are likely to pass such examinations.

Style :

Traditional Aikido as taught by Chiba Sensei. Open hand and weapons.