Blood, Sweat & Years is the story of one man's journey in Aikido from novice to 6th degree Black Belt. It is a light-hearted description of the trials, tribulations but most all fun over the years.As the Author says on the back cover: "None of the names have been changed to protect the innocent, there aren't any."Extracts from the Forward by Sensei Tony Sargeant 6th Dan Aikikai:
"John has written about his travels, friendship, experiences and often humorous adventures in his quest to embrace this wonderful Martial Art Aikido."
"This book has awoken many memories, which I had forgotten of our time together both in the UK and various parts of the world."
"I thank John for all that he has given to the Art of Aikido, his accomplishments are more than most will achieve in a lifetime."
This is a book that can be enjoyed by the non-martial artist and martial artist.
Extracts of the review by Brian Stockwell, editor of the "Aikido Times"
"There are a lot of accounts that will resonate with readers who have, for example, endured their first encounters with ukemi or waited nervously for their turn to take a grading."
"More senior Aikido will certainly recognise many of the names liberally sprinkled throughout the book, as well as mentions of broken bones, bruises and other injuries!"
"I am sure we have all been at events where we can reminisce and share stories with like-minded friends - and that's what it feels like reading this book."
This third edition also covers events that took place in 2017 & January 2018
About the Author: John Longford was born in 1949 and has lived his whole life in Cambridge. He grew up with two loving parents and was never beaten, starved or locked in the coal shed (possibly because they didn't have one) In 1980 he began something that, unbeknown to him, would completely change his whole life. That year he started learning Aikido under Sensei Tony Sargeant.
