Last night was our “last hard workout” before the Black Belt Test. It consisted of a very similar workout to #54, with the noteable difference that we were on the stage, where it was 10 degrees warmer than the rest of the building.

The first class went pretty uneventfully, but since had taken half the class to hit the makiwara the class ran long. In between, it was decided that we would move down into the gym, so we did.

Second class lined up, and was nowhere to be found. Sensei Brewer made a mention that someone should’ve gotten his bag, now he’d have to go up after it. Then he looked around and asked who was the highest rank, probably wanting to lay blame for not getting his bag for him. Oh great, it was me.

I stammered for a second and then said “Sensei Hartman is highest rank.” Sensei asked where he was and I quipped “uh… getting your bag?” and Sensei laughed and then said “oh, lying to me now?” and I just hung my head and laughed. Then he derided me for only giving him a $7 bribe (it was payment for an ASKA patch for me gi, in actuality).

I knew he was kidding, but I decided to run off and gather his stuff anyway after the line broke up. On my way back, I noticed Sensei Hartman sneaking in with what appeared to be a bucket full of softballs.

Yes, that’s right.

Each of us taking the black belt test had to do our kata while getting the foamcore softballs thrown at us from all angles. I was immediately concerned because my kata features a large and showy jump, which probably wouldn’t work well with balls on the ground. Luckily, I did it without killing myself or making too many mistakes.

Mike and Dave were able to get through their katas without too much trouble also.

In the end we didn’t get too much of a pep talk or anything, but I was left feeling a little numb. I didn’t screw up anything, but something just felt off about the training. I’m over it today, but I would’ve liked to have a bit of a high point to show Sensei Brewer right before the test. I know Sensei Hartman can see the progress we’ve made, but my time in front of Sensei Brewer this year has been short to say the least. I hope he can see it too.

3 days until the balls hit the walls.