Latest info for the international kendo community

[Alex]

You can view the page at http://www.kendo-world.com/forum/con...endo-community

[Gessho]

I like the idea of open bidding. It will ensure that the event is a completely positive one for viewers and participant which is valuable if kendo wants to attract more interest.

There is nothing worse for a viewer or a participant to be in a sub-standard facility or to be a part of an event that is not properly supported.

[Alex]

That's why I have a feeling that they might make the 16th WKC in Japan, to get the ball rolling and set an example.

[b8amack]

I disagree. Having it in Japan would look like the rules were so that Japan could have it yet again. I hope either the US or here in SK get it.

[Alex]

Yes, but who makes the rules?

[Alex]

BTW it's been in the US more recently than the last one in Japan (Kyoto '97). Korea actually wanted to host the next WKC (Italy). Whether they bid is anybody's guess at this stage, but the deadline for registering intent to host is November 30, 2010. A detailed proposal must be submitted by Dec. 31, 2010, so that's not really a lot of time to get organized...

[b8amack]

Yes, but who makes the rules?

Exactly! Not that I'd personally mind. Japan's a short flight. But spread the love around.

[Alex]

It's an even shorter flight for me!

[Kendoka]

China! I bet you.

[b8amack]

I'll take that bet. No way.

[Kim Taylor]

I disagree. Having it in Japan would look like the rules were so that Japan could have it yet again. I hope either the US or here in SK get it.

That would be more like "so they can have it in Japan if they can't get anyone else to host it". Anyone who has been around when their federation hosted the worlds will tell you that its a long, time-consuming, expensive proposition and for any of the smaller federations (which means most of them) it's a once in a generation effort. I was around for the WKC that was held in Canada and I am very thankful that I wasn't high enough on the totem pole to be put to work on it... although I did end up being drafted at the event itself, simply because I was within arms reach when something needed doing.

Kim.

[Alex]

Well, we'll know by the end of this year one way or the other.

[Abramo]

I'll second Kim's comment. Even though Brazil is counted among kendo's powerhouses it was very difficult to have the WKC going here. The lack of experience had to be countered by almost overbearing efforts.

You bet Brazil won't be bidding anytime within the next decade. Once in a generation sounds about right, the last one was 27 years before. It's a shame to lose all the know-how and contacts, but then again the community just isn't large enough to take the toll.

I wonder if the Italians need any help, I kinda liked being in the thick of it.

[Alex]

There maybe a consulting position for the shinai weigh-in Do you plan to go to Italy to watch?

[Abramo]

Yes indeed, now that I live close by I'll try to be there. Let's hope nothing gets in the way in 2 years.

EDA: I said going "here" in the last post, meaning Brazil, should be going "there". Damn habits.