[schildkoi]

Like most, I sought out sources of information to learn from. Outside of Koi, I have also extensive experience and love for teaching/training. I looked originally at the Judging program as more direct access to more experience information. Along with that avenue I also sought out what I perceived as advanced hobbyists. Thorughout the 90s I traveled extensively on business and always attempted to work my travel schedule around Koi shows or related activities. I received introductions and ultimately made friendships in this manner, all the while extracting all the information that I could. Making friends along the way with the Waddingtons and even making multiple trips to England for visits along with visits to the BKKS National. Like others, it was what Peter has called "an addiction". Although much of this was covered through business travels, it still costs around $8-10K a year out of my pocket between judging assignments, Speaking engagements, showing Koi myself, AKCA required seminar, etc. Last year as an example, I judged 6 shows, showed at 3 shows, attended the AKCA seminar, and did 2 Koi related speaking engagements. Busy year! For a certified judge, the show picks up the hotel room for the judges and meals while at the show, travel and ancillary expenses are out of our own pockets. It started out for me as I mentioned, a means of learning more, and still is today while at the same time provides another avenue of enjoyment in helping to teach others.

I refused to go to Japan for many years and took some critisisms from many of my closest Koi friends over it. I believed (and still do), that you have to reach a given level of understanding inorder to benefit from what was/I would see and hear once I made the trip. In other words, I wanted to learn what I could here first, then abroad (outside of Japan) and then finally in Japan. Like any structural pattern, learning being no different, you must have a solid foundation before you can build upwards.

Steve