On Toyama Ryu

I’m not sure exactly what triggered it, but something recently made me think of my old Iaido sensei, Tim Shiomi.

I used to drive an hour each way to train with him. We practiced outside in his front yard, often in the 100-degree California heat. Originally, he had me come out so he would have a kendo training partner, but while I was there, he also taught me Iaido.

At the time, I was completely obsessed. Those long drives to and from his place never felt like a burden; they were something I looked forward to. I became fairly competent in Iaido, getting close to shodan. Even today, the katana remains the weapon with which I am most proficient.

I sometimes wonder what Shiomi Sensei is up to now. His true forte was never Iaido, but Shito-Ryu Karate. Looking back, it’s interesting how many of the people I’ve been fortunate enough to learn from were highly skilled in multiple martial arts.

Perhaps, if time allows, I’ll look into training with him again. Or, if I ever open “The Lab,” I’ll invite him out to visit and train.

Shiomi Sensei was always easygoing and funny, but I could tell he had not always been that way. There was a depth to him that came from years of training and experience.

I’ve met many great people through martial arts. Thinking about it now, I feel blessed.

Above are some photos of Shiomi Sensei at the old Aikido of Fresno practicing karate and giving his then wife a cup of water and smiling.