Association Exams

A Sid Campbell Exam can be one of the greatest learning experiences ever for a serious martial artist.  There is no holding back and students are tested for stamina, knowledge, and overall understanding of their art.  Pictured below is a very tired and humble Sid Rayford following his 6th Dan exam in 2004.

Hanshi Campbell demonstrating the application and effects of the high speed Renzokuken type of fighting that is common in Kobayashi Shorin-Ryu.

After numerous and repetitive complexes, katas, and self-defense techniques, examinees are asked to perform katas that are selected by Hanshi Campbell.  It is at this time that we must rely upon our spirit, as the physical and mental resources have been heavily taxed.

The saying above is quite familiar to those who have been examined by Sid Campbell.  Renshi Sid Rayford lost almost 7 pounds on this exam (but lived to talk about it).

Very few things make association President Sid Campbell happier than a housefull of his students working to get their next ranks.  The presence of Vice-President Dan Tosh always makes for an interesting day.  Examinees never really know what to expect when these two men get together, but they know its going to be something good.

Real kata applications with quick and decisive results is what Sid Campbell is all about.  He is demonstrating a take-down that is found in the midst of several Shorin-Ryu Katas.  When these older katas are altered, it is these self-defense techniques that may no longer exist in the kata and can be lost forever.

Sensei Steve Jann on the receiving end of Sid Campbell's technique.  The grabbing techniques that are found inside of the Passai Katas opens the door to great devastation for those who fail to keep their hands to themselves.