A great loss to aikido

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 10:06:49 GMT

"Dear Aikidoka,
It is with much sadness that I must convey the news of yet another loss to the Aikido world. Ken Cottier Shihan (7th dan so hombu), passed away in the early hours of Sunday 8th Jun. Cottier Sensei was not just a great teacher, but a humble and true gentleman. I was very lucky to have known him, trained with him and have him as a guest at my house.
All those who met Sensei, will know what a great man he was. An inspiration to us all.

With much respect,
Simon Whittaker
Chief Instructor, Cambridge Aiki Dojo"

Ken Cottier was a student of the Founder of Aikido, O-Sensei, from the early '60's who continued to live and train in Japan for almost 25 years. After a couple of years back in England in the mid '80's he went to Hong Kong where he has been the senior instructor to the Hong Kong Aikido Association for the last ten years. Ken is a member of the Superior Council of the International Aikido Federation for about 10 years and is one of the Aikikai foundations most trusted and respected 'old boys'.