The Gathering 2020

Posted on May 25, 2020 by Geoff Grant


Hi
what a year!

I trust this message finds you well, and even prospering, in these challenging times. These unusual circumstances have tested many of us - for sure - but when we compare how we have fared with Europe and the United States, it becomes clear that we have a lot to be thankful for. Most, if not all of us, will emerge perhaps even the better for it, in the long run.

In many places, we are able to get back to some sort of operations this month. We those still unable to open our mats for contact training, it might only be a month or so, and we'll be back. By Christmas, we'll very likely be looking back at the whole thing as a kind of hibernation-of-sorts - one that we'll remember perhaps for the rest of our lives. No doubt, all mats will have improved hygiene regimes - so thats good!

Now to the hard part ... regarding this years GATHERING.
Even if we are all up and running by the end of July, I do not think that gives us enough time to 'find our feet' and get to back to where we were, 6 moths ago. So, after thinking long and hard about it, I have decided that the 2020 Gathering will not go ahead. We will need to cancel this year - and look forward to a huge return in 2021.

This, you may or may not realise, was somewhat of a heartbreaking decision for me ... but I do think it is what is best for everyone. I want your attention to remain where it should be - on your families, your circle of friends and the re-building of your Academies. Let's recover from this 'injury', rehab, repair and re-build for a great 2021. See you all very soon I trust.

My apologies and deepest respect to you all.
Best regards
John Will

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