Who was or still is your mentor in the hobby?

[dick benbow]

That we all owe a debt of gratitude to all of the Judges who give of their expertise, time ( and personal $) to be a part of our shows, give seminars,
walk us around and comment on the koi that placed. I know it's a labor of "love", but it's still a contribution none the less.....

[RookieKoiGuy]

Quote: Originally Posted by aquitori Since we have alot of new people here on the board, we want to know who is your mentor?

A guy who you only need to use his first name
Spike

Tom

[Auntiesue]

Wher to start!!! In my very early years of trying to keep koi, a gentleman came to my rescue via the internet after hearing my pleas for help with sick fish, Bill Puckett from OKC. He was the first that gave me hope that I could actually keep healthy koi without the heartache and actually enjoy the hobby. He started me on the right track for filtration and a proper pond. It was at his urging that I attended my first show (OKC). I continue to be in contact with Bill as I owe him a great deal of gratitude for urging me not to give up after listening to me cry many times over this "koi keeping". While attending the OKC shows, I first met Steve Childers. He likely doesn't remember it, but he had such excitment for the hobby and some good sound information that I took back home with me and used that he then became (and still is) one that I look to for answers. JR has been also been a shining light in the darkness and I read just about everything he writes trying to understand. If I could ever get where these two gentlemen are, I would be every so grateful. Of late, I have learned a great deal from Art as well. I would really like to pick his brain more!!

[greerhw]

If I hadn't had a glass of vino or two I would never admit it was Steve Childers when he just lived a couple of miles from me. To this day I still can't pick out a fish worth a crap.
Harry

[lypope]

So many folks have helped me along the way. First, Ken Tran and the good folks at Eastern Nishikigoi, who put up with my questions and patiently helped me - even netted, boxed and shipped my koi when I moved, as well as sending all the quarantine tank equipment I needed to keep them healthy while my house was being built. Tom Holder, who held my hand through the inevitable sick fish learning curve. Steve Childers, who never lets me down. Henry Culpepper, from whom I learn something each time I'm around him. Bob and Shila Winkler, for welcoming me into his home, teaching me about patience and perseverance and staying cheerful in the face of adversity. Jim Reilly, from whom I learn something every time he speaks or posts. And all of the dear friends I meet up with at koi shows, who make it worth driving two days just to see "fish." When's the next show?

[Birdman]

For me, with out a doubt, Dick Benbow.

[kent wallace]

For me it's been the guidance of William lim and the writings of JR

[MCA]

Steve C, JR, Kevin P

[schildkoi]

Quote: Originally Posted by greerhw If I hadn't had a glass of vino or two I would never admit it was Steve Childers when he just lived a couple of miles from me. To this day I still can't pick out a fish worth a crap. Harry

Harry,
Ya old salty dog, you. Haven't seen ya on lately and it is good to hear from you. BTW, Thanks. Miss ya'll.

Steve

[JasPR]

For me?

Dr Kuroki for pure inspiration.
Grant Fugita for pure education.
Galen Hansen for showing how to teach others.
Peter Waddington, for deeper understanding.
My koi, for providing me inspiration, education, a deeper understanding and the desire to share.

JR