On January 26th we had the honor of participating in a seminar with former World Champion (2003, -90kg) Master Hwang Heetae. The seminar was held at Master CJ Lee’s Do Martial Arts, presented by Master Han Jihwan of Han’s Martial Arts, Master Lee, and Master Choi Sunho of South Bay Judo. Sensei Soora Wi translated for Master Hwang throughout.
At the very beginning of the seminar, Master Hwang said (paraphrasing here): “I’m going to show you my judo, what works for me. What works for me, might not work for you. Everybody has to know the basics, but after that, you have to develop your own style of judo.” Wise words!
As you would expect from someone who’s been to the very top of the judo mountain, his technique was top notch. He shared with us some gripping techniques, a ko-uchi-gari, a yoko tomoe-nage, a double sleeve sode tsuri komi goshi, and a few newaza techniques as well.
In addition to the technical excellence, Master Hwang was friendly and helpful. He did randori with EVERYONE at the end. He let all the little kids throw him, and the brown and black belts he threw them all quickly and efficiently. What a great seminar!
I was able to take some videos, which with Master Hwang’s permission I’ve posted on the Oakland Judo youtube page. Take a look!
