Celebrating Rick's birthday

Tonight marked what would've been Sensei Rick's 80th birthday. In true University fashion, we made sure to celebrate the occasion as Rick would have wanted - with judo and beverages (though unfortunately we couldn't get our hands on any Gisborne Golds for the night). In the great dojo in the sky he was probably ripping into us throughout the whole randoori, especially during newaza. 

For me personally, my first day of judo was on Rick's 70th birthday so whenever his birthday comes around, I also realize that I've completed another year of judo. Since he passed away, it's also become a time for me to reflect on how fortunate I was to pick a damn good place to train at.

Kanpai and Tanjoubi Omedetou Dai-Sensei Littlewood!