Hameenlinna Branch, Finland / Mar 2003 Contributor: Branch Master Seppo Kauppila

25th February 2003

Gassho

Hameenlinna is located in South Finland, about 100 km from the capital city Helsinki. There are 46 750 people living in Hameenlinna and it is the 15th biggest town in Finland. Hameenlinna, Finland's oldest inland town, was founded by Finland's governor general Count Peter Brahe in 1639. Here are some more details of Hameenlinna town: http://www.hameenlinna.fi

The Hameenlinna Shorinji Kempo club was started already in 1995 by a kenshi from Helsinki Branch Ismo Leinonen 2. dan. Unfortunately, he had to move to a town located about 500 kilometres north from Hameenlinna because of his studies.

Since 2001 I have been supporting the Hameenlinna kenshi in their Shorinji Kempo practise with the consent of my own sensei Ilkka Virtanen and sensei Aosaka.

December 25, 2002 the Shorinji Kempo Hameenlinna Branch was established.

In our Branch there are many eager kenshi practising Shorinji Kempo.

I have been actively practising Shorinji Kempo about 12 years. I find Shorinji Kempo rewarding both physically and mentally. During my training I have learnt effective self-defence and physical stamina but also evolved strong self-control and peace of mind. One of the best aspects of Shorinji Kempo is being a part of a strong and loving community, which has a mutual interest to make the world a better place. Also my wife Pia Hirvonen has practised Shorinji Kempo for many years.

During these past 12 years I have also learnt highly to respect my sensei Ilkka Virtanen. His dedication to Shorinji Kempo is admirable. I hope I can show similar enthusiasm towards Shorinji Kempo.

Finally, I would especially like to thank sensei Aosaka and sensei Mizuno for their contributions for Shorinji Kempo both in Finland and Europe.

Kesshu

 

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