David joined Ren Shin Kan Iaido Dojo at the age of 11. He was very young but very dedicated to his practice and very proud of his Dojo. Through pure hard work David got his Shodan award at 17, he won the National Championships, a gold medal, and was the National Champion. He continued to train hard and made the United Kingdom Iaido Team, going on to represent his country at international level. This was a great achievement for such a young man, and it captures the ethos that is Ren Shin Kan Iaido. David died tragically young, This devastated his family, his dojo brothers and sisters, and all who knew him. I always remember his intelligence, great sense of fun and smile, he was a friend of mine and I miss him greatly.
David's Parents Robert and Helen have donated his sword to Ren Shin Kan, for which we are extremely grateful. Rather than have his sword as just a part of our armory, I think it would be a nice idea to award it annually to a Ren Shin Kan Mudan to use for a year or until they acquire their own sword, I would like to donate a sword stand so that the winner can add their name and date Cartouche to the stand.
The candidates will be selected by the Ren Shin Kan Dojo Instructors and voted on by the membership.
I hope this will keep alive the memory of a fine young man, and a member of our Dojo.
R.I.P. David.