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What was New: January 19th - September 3, 2003
September 3, 2003: Finally catching up after a very busy Summer!
This has been a very good year for Uechi-ryu. Students and teachers from various segments are working out together and have finally become more concerned about training than they are about the crest they wear on their uniform. I still hear statements from teachers who protect their students from outside influences they don't control, but this attitude is rapidly changing as their students attend various events on their own and return to their dojo with renewed enthusiasm for their Uechi-ryu.
Some teachers are concerned that if their students get exposed to newer and different Uechi techniques and applications, that they will quit their home dojo. This is a very stupid belief and one that is promoted heavily by some of the "funding" companies out there. Understandably, the average dojo/instructor that joins these groups have a right to be fearful that their students be exposed to instruction that transcends the babysitting programs they currently give, the vast majority of Uechi teachers have nothing to fear in this regard.
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I finally had time to put together the September Mailbag this morning. Wow... I couldn't believe all the e-mail that has accumulated over the past few months. I tried to post letters of a general interest or letters that represent many other letters. . . usually asking similar questions. . . You should note that I do not post letters of a private nature or letters requesting that I do not post. I never include email addresses or mailing information unless the person request that I post it.
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Many people ask me to publish my travel plans. Susan has advised me that this is not such a good idea, for obvious reasons. Sometimes I have to mention my plans, such as the India trip in January, since I am looking to bring a couple of Uechi students with me, to enjoy the trip and I've published these plans. However, when Susan and I travel, we always have a "house sitter", who protects Tia and the house. :)
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Uechi-ryu Virtual Dojo: Those of you who have followed my column or know me, understand how much I'm committed to the idea of expanding Uechi-ryu instruction and interest through the internet. I've subscribed to a fantastic program that allows people from around the world to communicate with one another as though they were in the dojo together. I also have another, more sophisticated program I call "Virtual Dojo", that allows participants to view video clips together and like instruction in a dojo, a teacher will be able to comment on a student's techniques and form while both the teacher and students watch. Students are able to ask questions "real time" and get answers with visual aids. I already am working with a dozen students from around the world with this technology.
August 15, 2003:
Something New for Forumites
I wish to formally welcome Dave Young to the IUKF and the forums. Dave has been appointed as moderator of a new forum entitled "Real World or Your World". Dave will be using a positive approach in teaching "realistic" solutions to age old problems. We've spend quite a lot of time on the telephone, discussing strategy and topic focus. Dave will not be competing with any of the other forums, electing to specialize in helping traditional martial artist adapt what they know and practice to street applications.
In our discussions, Dave reinforced the concept of Forum uniqueness. He is not going to present concepts which are "best", rather techniques, training, philosophy that works best for him and which he offers to the readers. Although he is a member of IUKF, his instruction and counsel is for all martial artist, regardless of style or organization.
If Dave attacts the forums with the same energy and enthusiasm he expends in his other endeavors, the traditional martial artist on this site are in for a treat. Dave promises that he will treat all posters with respect and their questions and comments with an open mind. Dave has been around for a long time and is well respected in his field. Naturally he will have his opinions, which he will share with all who wish to engage him in conversation. Tell your martial art friends to drop in and say hello.
E-mail System that Works!
I don't know how many hours a week you set aside to delete all the junk mail that clogs our mail programs every day. Because I use the uechi.com domain for my mail, I get over a thousand a week. Following the SummerFest, I had to spend over an hour getting rid of these annoying messages, ending up with 34 actual messages I wanted to read. I was using one of the better screening program availably called "MailWasher", that allows mail recipients to screen their mail before pulling it off the server.
The program remembers return addresses you "blackball", but the junk mailers use different return addresses each time they do a mass mailing, therefore the end user must tag all the junk mail before processing the mailing. To make matters worse, many legitimate email contain weird addresses that doesn't give any indication as to the name of the person sending the email. Subject lines help, but here again, many people leave them empty or use a non descriptive phrase which does help determining whether or not to "blackball" the address.
Don Brown told me about MailBlocker, which is a fairly new program that handles incoming mail in a way that will take the spammers a while to defeat. The program requires a few minutes of careful reading to set up correctly, but once you complete the configuration, it does the job. I'm mentioning this, in case you have never sent me an e-mail and discover that after sending me one, you get a reply asking you to confirm by e-mail, that your are a human, which will eliminate 99% of the junk mail coming in to my mailbox. Once you do this, your original e-mail will be delivered to me and your email address will be included in my "safe" address book listing.
The program also provides a number of special email names to be used when signing up for newsletters or newsgroups. These email go to uniquely named files in your mail program.
Junk mailers beware. . . Your days are numbered.
Dave Young is quite the guy!
Dave mesmerize everyone during his seminars, while on breaks, at meals and especially during our "socials". Dave is a man who has "walked the walk" and loves to talk about his training methods while interspersing his verbal and physical demonstrations with lively and entertaining stories based on personal experiences.
Dave teaches thousands of LEO during the year. He is possibly one of the most respected authority in the field of "reality based self defense."
IUKF and Dave will be working together in what will be a kind of experiment for Dave. . . Working with civilians. I've been looking for an expert who has the ability to lead IUKF in our quest for a more "complete" system, and I think we have found him.
Welcome aboard Dave.
August 6, 2003: Looks like one great Event!
The last minute applications are pouring in.
The weather forecast is predicting a pleasant weekend.
Susan and I are pretty much caught-up with all the preparations.
See you on the beach 6:30AM Friday!
August 3, 2003: SummerFest Update!
One week before my 20th SummerFest. I hope you will be able to join me in the training and celebration.
We are expecting great weather as usual. (In 20 years we've never been rained out) Of course, we do have an 80 X 30 foot tent and a huge gymnasium. . . Just in case!
I still get a few letters from new students who are wondering "What can I get out of SummerFest"? Well, besides being able to work out with some of the best Uechi-ryu teachers on the basics of Uechi-ryu, you will be able to participate in many of the seminars that are geared for beginners. Most of the non-Uechi-ryu seminars are "introductory" courses, designed to give the Uechi community an insight into the many other fighting arts available, that are compatible with our Uechi-ryu.
We also have a special area for the "Healing" arts. Everything from Tai massage, Chiropractory and Acupuncture to
Reikei. You would be surprised to learn of all the aches and pains both received and cured at SummerFest! :)
One of the most moving ceremonies of the weekend is our annual "masters" black belt testing. On Saturday evening we will once again be inducting one person into the very exclusive Hanchidan club (8th degree black belt) along with a group of 6th and 7th dan candidates. This year we are very proud to honor New York's David Finkelstien into the Hanchidan club. David has been studying Uechi-ryu since the 1960s, while he was getting his law degree from Harvard.
Dr. Paul Giella will once again be hosting the Masters awards in the conference center following dinner.
The SummerFest has become the premier event of the year for Uechi-ryu. It is an opportunity for old friends to gather and work out together for three days. Evening are opportunities to watch demonstrations given by new presenters, relive the "good old days" and make new friends. The hardest part of the evening is saying good night!
Besides the many seminars, demonstrations and other activities, all the pioneers of Uechi-ryu are available to check out your kata and give valuable tips on how you can improve your techniques and form. Our Uechi-ryu champions, besides teaching seminars on sport karate and self defense methods, will be available throughout the weekend to answer questions and give advice on anything you may wish to ask.
Naturally, I will be very active all weekend. Besides teaching my 6:30AM
"Sanchin by the Beach", I will be available at all times to critique your Uechi-ryu and help you make your training more productive, effective and enjoyable.
When you check in at the registration area, you will be given a complete schedule of seminars and activities. Be sure to take advantage of the hourly discussion sessions with the seniors, which will take place under the tent.
Don't forget to visit the Store and pick up your collectible SummerFest 2003 T-shirt. Susan is bringing down a huge selection of martial art clothing, DVDs and Videos. We are phasing out our VHS videos and will be offering our inventory at a huge discount.
OK! Now that you realize what a great time you will have at SummerFest 2003, the question is: "How can I register"?
The full program, with room and board, will be available until Wednesday. But you must call: 508-586-7678 and you must pay by MasterCard or Visa. Daytrips will be available with lunches until Wednesday for the regular price. Drop-in
"daytrippers" are welcome, but you will pay $100 for the day with no lunch!
So please pick up the phone and call Susan at 508-586-7678 or you can register by FAX: 508-559-8913 (The application can be found from the home page:
http://uechi-ryu.com )
After you register, please read the information on the "Fest" page pertaining to the schedule, things to bring, etc.
See you Friday morning "on the beach". Oh yes, the Maritime Academy is "this side" of the bridge, so you won't be caught in the Cape traffic if you drive.
July
27, 2003: Looks like a fairly large group this year!
Applications are still coming in from all over North America. Even got one from Scotland! Gary Geddes (his 20th camp) has been making calls to the Nova Scotians, who have responded with a record number of applications. Everyone last year enjoyed the tent, so this year I've ordered one twice the size of last years: 30 X 80 feet!
Darin Yee suggested we host a golf tournament on Thursday and volunteered to put it together. I know we have lots of Uechi-ryu golfers, including at least one from Bermuda! :) We are planning on an early afternoon playing time. If you can play, please e-mail Darin . You just pay for your round and a cart. We might even bet a few bucks on the outcome. . . Scrambles format. You are welcome to bring a foursome with no more than one "ringer"! :)
July 22, 2003: Sweating out the SummerFest numbers!
Happens every year. Susan and I watching for David, the mailman, hoping he will be bringing in a pile of applications. David knows the routine, having been through it with us for the past twenty years. "Five more" he announced yesterday, with a smile. When he delivers only bills, he still smiles, saying that things will pick-up soon.
I've been following the attendance figures for other camps and seminars. Seems as though the economy is taking its toll. Most events are quite a bit slower than other years. Funny. . . when people are gainfully employed and can afford to attend camp, they are too busy to attend. When they lose their jobs and have time to attend, they can't afford to go. With a couple weeks to go, our attendance is actually ahead of last year. We've received lots of "promises" to attend, which most often is the same as saying "I'll be back at class soon George!" :)
I was very pleased to hear from Walter Mattson this morning. He has agreed to teach a two part Seisan Bunkai seminar and also spend an hour under the tent, talking about the martial arts and different training methods. Just don't ask him to tell you about the 1963 Chicago tournament and the events following the tournament. Save that for Saturday night! (Unless Charlie Earle comes. . . then he won't be able to tell the story!) :
This year we have scheduled Dave Young and Roy Bedard to talk about realistic training methods. Lots of teachers and students train hard in the dojo and can do well in tournaments, but haven't a clue what to expect in a real fight. Dave and Roy are experts in this field, working with police groups around the world and having "real world" experience in the subject. Check the schedule and don't miss this session following dinner on Friday.
We have a stellar cast of presenters again this year. If you haven't e-mailed, faxed or mailed your application in yet, please do it today. Help us make this SummerFest the best ever.
Gotta run. . . Tia is barking. . . It must be David!
July 10, 2003: A great opportunity!
Besides all the other fantastic activities taking place at camp this year, Jay Salhanick will be offering three special training sessions for tournament officials. Please contact Jay and let him know you will be taking advantage of this very great program:
Hello All:
I would like to invite all Uechi Ryu / Shohei Ryu brown belts and above to join and earn the title, certified Uechi Ryu / Shohei Ryu Referee / Judge. I will be presenting and teaching two Referee Training Seminars at George Mattson's summer camp. Please check the schedule at the end of this notice. Since this referee program initiation at last year's summer camp, it has taken off to great success. This past year the IUKF Referee's have attend and worked all the Uechi Ryu / Shohei Ryu Tournaments. The referees and judgers did a fantastic job. The tournament average for all three events was - 180 competitors. That is a new record for Uechi Ryu / Shohei Ryu tournaments. With George Mattson's tournament being the last on of the tournament year, topping 225 competitors. A new record…
The success of this tournament series is all based on the fact the kids are being judged and scored in a totally safe, fair, and honest environment and tournament. Each referee and judge is totally dedicated to officiating and making each tournament a safe, fair and fun time for all the kids. I would like to invite all brown belts and black belts in Uechi Ryu and Shohei Ryu to join us, and Be part of this great tournament series. I would like to publicly thank all the hard working Referee's, Judgers for doing such a GREAT job, this past season. You people are the very best. You have all worked so hard, attending the training sessions, working the three tournaments over the course of the year. I am very proud to be working with all of you. I am also equally proud to be the Director of this program.
I will be holding and teaching two training seminars at GM's summer camp, August 8th & 9th. Please read below for information on joining us.
BECOMING A CERTIFIED REFEREE: If you would like to join our team and become a certified official referee or judge, all you need to do is contact Jay Salhanick. The procedure is - (Remember - We have high standards); it is not easy to earn the title - Certified Referee. Requirements are: 1- Pass a 60 question written rule test. - Passing grade is 55 correct out of the 60 questions 2- Attend three training seminars. 3- Work as a side official for one year, and be evaluated on your performance 4- Minimum age is 18 5- Attend and work at lest two out of the four scheduled tournaments.
SUMMER CAMP REFEREE TRAINING SEMINAR OUTLINE: Friday & Saturday - 10:00 to 10:30 am - Written test Friday & Saturday - 10:30 to 11:15am - Training Seminar - Kata Friday & Saturday - 11:15 to 12 Noon - Training Seminar - Sparring
If I can answer any questions. Please just contact me.
Thank you. Jay Salhanick - Renshi - 6th dan Executive Director - IUKF Referee & Tournament DivisionE-mail: Jay Salhanick
July 7, 2003: One Month to go. . . 20th Anniversary SummerFest!
This should be a fantastic camp! As usual the biggest problem for attendees will be "Which seminar should I take?" With over 50 exciting sessions to choose from, deciding where to go can be a frustrating task.
Remember, SummerFest is for students and teachers of all ranks. Because SummerFest is a "Uechi-ryu" focused event, seminars in Uechi-ryu are available every hour, for all ranks and in every aspect of our art. All the other seminars are Uechi compatible. . . in other words, the material works well with our style.
For you Wes Tasker fans, good news:
Wes Tasker will be teaching a sampling of Pekiti-Tirsia Kali stickwork and related footwork, and will bring enough sticks for students' use during his classes (which they may purchase for a nominal fee if they wish). Wes is ranked as a Mataas na Guro (which means he has completed and been tested on the entire system) under Tuhon Guro William McGrath who in turn received his title under the system's familial heir Tuhon Leo Tortal Gaje.
Watch the SummerFest forum for updates. I will also be listing new presenters on the SummerFest schedule whenever I have time.
If you haven't sent in your applications yet, please attend to this ASAP. Organizing SummerFest is a lot of work. Getting your applications in early helps Susan with the planning and administration work.
June 22, 2003: Site update, Camp notes & Other Things!
I keep getting e-mail asking me "why the 'oldsite' in the URL"? Well, after nearly a year of part-time work, Ted S. has released the first new site applications. People visiting the Uechi-ryu Family of Styles' Black Belt Registry, will now be able to look up people's rank by name, rank or organization. Because of the way this search engine and program works, our Registry Editor, David Kahn, will be able to enter data through his browser, without having to do any programming or complicated editing and uploading to the site. We are a little behind in the listing, but David should be able to use this program next week. If your rank is not listed, contact David for information on how you can be registered. The rules are pretty simple: You must have an authentic rank from one of the major Uechi organizations and you must have been tested by a test board with a senior who is registered. This lineage check will maintain the integrity of the listing and rank issued.
Harvey Liebergott reminded me after class yesterday, that this year's camp will be the 20th anniversary of SummerFest! Seems like yesterday we were taking the boat to Thompson's Island in Boston Harbor for five days and nights of hard workouts and celebrations. Remember the year Master Uechi and his family joined us? I can recall the evenings where he played his Samisan and sang Okinawan folk songs for hundreds of us, gathered around him as the Sun set on our Island dojo, following ten hours of strenuous classes.
For those of you who weren't there, check out the 83 - 85 video tape/DVD, which preserves these memories forever. It was at the '84 camp where we met the Shushiwa descendant and the incredible Crane master. Can you believe there were teachers who boycotted these camps and prevented their students from attending?
Well, the 20th Camp is coming up and once again, it will be the premier event of the year. There will be highly talented instructors representing all of the major Uechi organizations, teaching their specific interpretations of the core system. This year we will be honored to have a number of highly skilled "Specialist", presenting seminars in all of the related fighting arts associated with Uechi-ryu. We are particularly pleased to report that David Young will be on staff this year. We met at WinterFest, where he introduced one of the most practical and effective series of self-defense lessons I've ever seen. Dave's credentials are most impressive. You don't want to miss his seminars.
This year, Alan Lowell and a team from his school will be presenters. Mike Snisky is working on getting all the support people he would need to do FAST Defense Level 1 (4 hour seminar) at Camp. Alan is, to my knowledge, the first Uechi practitioner to incorporate the FAST Defense program as part of his curriculum. He believes that our Uechi skills are very easily adapted to the FAST Defense techniques. Here is your opportunity to learn what this program is all about and how it can benefit you!
Rick Wilson, famous in our Uechi organization for his innovative and realistic drills, will be a presenter this year for the first time. Rick will be introducing the "Night of the Living Dead" scenario training to all who attend. You've read about these drills on Van's forum. Now, in one place and during a single long weekend, you will be able to sample them all!
Bob Campbell, Van Canna, Art Rabesa, Jimmy Maloney, David Mott, Bill Glasheen, Calvin Chin, Ed Huff, David Finkelstein, Paul Haydu, John Spencer, Bob Bethoney, Larry Tan, Roy Bedard, and all the other "regulars" will be there. Our Chinese Kungfu friends from Fuzhou China will be there as well. I apologize for not listing everyone, but with over 60 seminars scheduled. . . Please check the SummerFest site for detailed updates.
Oh
yes, this year we will be having Junior SummerFest on Saturday. An all
day series of seminars especially for kids aged 5 - 15. There will be a cookout
and a special "Elvis" concert for the kids. (And any adults
interested).
Scott Teceno is the "Real Thing". . . I've seen him in concert and he is fantastic. He is also a real Elvis fan. He owns Elvis's Karate Gi and will be wearing it during part of the SummerFest concert. Click here to listen to one of his songs. Scott's band is now known as the Vegas Valentinos.
Only a few weeks until SummerFest 20! Click here to make your reservations. Looking forward to seeing you all. GEM
June 1, 2003: Another Tournament victory for Uechi-ryu
Although I was disappointed that many of the big Uechi dojo elected to be busy with other activities Saturday, perhaps it was for the best. By the time the last match was conducted and the Grand Champion awards were presented, it was nearly 4:30PM. Everyone, especially the hard working officials, were extremely tired. If any more competitors showed up, we would have been overwhelmed! Next year we will definitely have to limit the number of competitors allowed to enter. Our goal is to provide the very best facility and the best officials for the competitors. We will conduct the matches in an unhurried and formal manner that will give students the best environment for conducting sport karate.
In our first major effort Saturday, we succeeded big time. Thanks to all the students, family members and seniors who demonstrated their loyalty and support by participating in our tournament Saturday.
Uechi-ryu weekend: Thanks to Gary Khoury, who once again hosted the New England IUKF Spring Dantest today. The new and tougher IUKF standards didn't present a problem for this group of eager, well trained athletes. Congratulations to all.
May 25, 2003: Tournament Update!
Although anticipated bad weather kept many people from attending today's cookout and tour of the Dome, we did have a good crowd of dedicated Uechi-ryu students show up.
The Dome is HUGE. . . Over 300 feet long by nearly 200 feet wide. Before heating up the barbeque, our team, lead by Darrin Yee, Don Brown and Fedele Cacia mapped out the rings. Darrin impressed everyone by laying out the ring dimensions using a special laser devise. Those rings are perfect! :)
We
will be using Arenas I and II. The third arena will be available for the
competitors to warm up while awaiting their divisions to compete. Following the
awarding of our specially designed Olympic-type medals, the winners will be
escorted to a special area set up for photographs. Next to this area is a
section where medals can be engraved.
We also will have a whole section set aside as an official's lounge area, where officials can enjoy a beverage and a snack.
The
rings are set up so the General Admission spectators will be an unobstructed
view of all rings. The VIPs who wish to sit will have a special section. VIPs
who wish to move around will be able to go from Arena to Arena, but will be
restricted to the back one third of the Arena, where they will not interfere
with the rings or vision of the seated VIPS or General Admission spectators.
Keith "The Bear" Frank, our Medical EMT has a special station in the middle of the two arenas.
All competitors and officials will meet in Arena III at 9:30AM for final instructions, while spectators assemble in Arena I. Then the competitors will march into their competition area, followed by the Darrin Yee singing the National Antham. (He practiced today and did a great job)
The Junior tournament will be conducted first, using both Arenas. The Adult "World Championships" will be held immediately following the completion of the Junior event. See you Saturday!
May 13, 2003: Germany and Tournament Update!
Although I was fighting a nasty cold throughout the trip, our group had a wonderful time in Germany. Bill, Bruce, Sal and I were treated to a good mix of sightseeing, partying and strenuous workouts. Bill summed up our feelings best with this letter he penned to our hosts:
Hello Everyone!
I made it back in Richmond at 7 PM Eastern Standard Time (1 AM your time). The trip back was good. It's always easier coming back east, as we gain 6 hours and I never have problems staying up late. This morning I am back at work quite refreshed and ready to go.
Thank you so much to everyone for a wonderful time. Every time I come, your hard work and your sincere hospitality never fail to amaze me. Every trip is run like the finest German engineering firm, and every effort is given with the heart of the finest German artisan.
I hope very much that all the German dojos benefited from our martial arts work. I also hope that Paul, Helmut, and the gang can take all the information that was presented, digest it, and make the best of it. I know sometimes it's difficult because you occasionally get different information from different instructors. But this is the nature of the art we work with. I am confident your dojo is mature enough to appreciate that the collective differences are what make us strong as a group. Take time to ponder all that was presented. If you can capture even 10% of it and put it to good use, you can consider your effort a major success. You should know that efforts like this actually help us too. For example, we (George, myself, Bruce, and Sal) get to see each other interact with students, compare views, and learn a bit from the differences. Some of these discussions are coming back to the U.S., and we wll be improving as a result.
Please tell Cemi that I appreciated the time she spent helping me shop, and the effort she made to talk to us individually at functions.
Best of luck to you all. I look forward to the opportunity to return the gift of hospitality.
- Bill
Rather than posting lots of pictures here, Ted has created a new "Gallery" section where large numbers of photographs can be easily uploaded. Click on http://gallery.uechi-ryu.com to view over two hundred pictures taken by Bruce H. and others.
2003 Uechi-ryu World Championships Update: Applications continue to come in at a brisk rate. However, a number of parents were a little confused over the seating arrangements, wondering how they would be able to help their children put on equipment and watch over them, if they could not enter the arena where the matches will be held.
The reason I created a VIP ticket, was to determine how many chairs I would have to rent. The regular admission would not allow spectators into the actual competition area, although they would be able to view the matches. I thought rental chairs could be ordered a couple of days before the event, but I learned today that unless I ordered the chairs early, they would probably not be available on the 31st. So. . . I placed an order for 150 chairs, which will be placed in the competition arena for the first 150 VIP ticket holders. After that, a special VIP entrance pass will be issued, but will not include chairs.
Susan pointed out that at "Bap's" tournaments, very few chairs were available and that most spectators had to stand. Because multiple rings will be in action, many spectators may prefer to move around instead of being seated in one place. Since the competition arena is huge, we will have room for hundreds of spectators.
If you haven't yet sent in your applications, please let us know whether your VIP pass should include a chair or if you would prefer to move around.
By the way, for you parents who opt for the general admission, your children will have a separate arena where you can assist them with their equipment and wait with them until their division gets announced.
May 6th, 2003: Couple of Items!
A mint copy of Master Uechi's Kihon has been offered on the Emporium. Not many have been offered during the past couple of years. Send your bids to me. Best price over $2000 wins this magnificent collectible.
Gary Khoury has invited me to his dojo on May 17th (Sat) at 2pm to lead a special Dan Test candidate workout. All candidates are invited. (Only $20 mat fee) for details and directions, click here. All brown and black belts are invited to participate, even if you aren't being tested June 1st.
Bruce, Bill and I will be sending in pictures during our Germany trip. Check the forums for trip updates.
I've received lots of very kind letters regarding my last editorial on the status of traditional karate. One writer asked me if Okinawa's decision will affect the direction IUKF has taken regarding tournament and sparring. My answer is NO. . . sparring is a very important part of Uechi-ryu. However, I would like to remind everyone that participating in a tournament is a great way to test yourself and your basic fighting ability, but it is, by no stretch of the imagination the same thing as a real fight.
Sparring and competition is merely another tool in the Uechi toolkit. Tournaments should be an enjoyable and valuable experience for students. Although winning is obviously more fun and requires a lot more training to accomplish, just entering and getting up and performing in front of a crowd is for many of us a major step forward in our training..
May 2, 2003: A line drawn in the sand!
I've been thinking about the plight of traditional martial arts in this modern age of "realism" and "15 minutes of fame" self defense courses and can't miss killer systems.
I'm a firm believer in "cross training". No one encourages students to "get out" and test themselves while learning more about your core system than I do. However, many of the "non-traditionalist" will get all huffy and puffy about what they do and will attempt to discredit everything anyone else does, be it traditional or non-traditional methods. Naturally, the consumer is the one who suffers the most, buying into one course after another, each promising "everything" but delivering nothing more than the last "best" method.
Ever watch some of the infomercials on TV late night or Sunday mornings? One of my students, (Mike Hurney) sells one of the Real Estate courses that is similar to the one's sold on TV. Mike told me that many of his real estate students will buy every method there is, hoping beyond hope that one will work for them. Unfortunately, after the course has been read and studied, the person must do what all the courses fail to emphasize except in the fine print: Visualizing and memorizing the techniques is only the beginning. Successful results hinge on Practice, Practice and more Practice!
Unlike the real estate courses, martial art methods also require strength, endurance, Tiger-like mindset and a Zen-like calmness in the face of danger. These qualities of fighting are downplayed in most of the get-self defense-quick course headlines. Instead, these methods promote their wares with their superstar creators. . . guys who no more represent the average martial artist than Tony Robbins represents the average salesman.
We traditionalist fall into the trap of trying to defend what we do with examples of students or other traditionalist who were successful defending themselves. Or just as stupid, ridicule someone else who does things differently, because a student got beat up using that system's technique. In other words, the traditionalist are getting beat up by all the newest and latest and best (for today) methods of self defense. . . plus, they are beating themselves up trying to convince themselves and other traditionalist that although they aren't as tough as a boxer, wrestler, grappler or whatever, they are better than the other traditionalist out there!
Instead of fighting among themselves, the successful martial art schools today have become "motivators" and extensions of our secondary school systems. They downplay fighting and emphasize the non-physical benefits of the martial arts. Most of these schools have no interest in associating with the traditional martial arts or the in-fighting that is taking place among the individual systems. They have rightfully determined that to associate with the traditionalist will insure their eventual demise. To advertise "The Ultimate in Self Defense", means that you must continually prove that what you teach really is the "ultimate" and we have learned from experience that no one or no system remains the "ultimate" very long. In the West, fighters evolve based on experience and assimilation. Assuming that the fighter is willing to train hard and long, is in superb physical condition and has a killer mindset, he will, after trial and error, learn how to overcome today's "ultimate" in fighting methods and will enjoy his own limited fame. That is the way of the world. That is why the four minute mile remained a barrier only as long as runners believed it was a barrier. The Gracies were undefeated only as long as the stand up fighters believed they could not compete with the grappler.
In other words, traditional martial arts are dead as the "ultimate" in fighting. Any student who studies a single martial art in order to become a champion NHB fighter, will be very disappointed the first minute of his first fight.
Fortunately, most of us who take up the martial arts, do so for many reasons. One of these reasons may be self defense. In the IUKF, we refer to the basic core system as the Hub of a wheel. The basic system provides many benefits that include some degree of self defense ability. However, depending on the student's interests, abilities and willingness to train, will determine the different directions (spokes of the wheel) the student may take to achieve specific goals.
IUKF focuses on the basic system. The "specialist" within IUKF are available to assist students to become sport fighters, Ultimate fighters, Knife experts, grapplers, or whatever. This model allows the traditional system to peacefully coexist with the many factions that formally were trying to destroy the traditional base with their illogical "I'm tougher than you, therefore what you are doing is no good!" philosophy. You want to fight Mike Tyson? Fine, but don't blame your Sanchin training when you get knocked out. You want to become a bouncer? Fine, but don't look to Dan Kumite for insights into dealing with ten drunken football linebackers who want to tear your head off.
This is an age of specialization. There is no reason we should feel like dummies because we practice an art based on self defense that doesn't prepare us for a knife fight with Raf Derdarian. And as good as Raf is with his knives, he shouldn't feel like a dummy for not wanting to get into a gun fight with Mas Ayub.
Now, why did I get this all off my chest? Well, yes, it felt good. But the real reason was to preface a stand that Okinawa has taken, that may be one of the most important decisions ever made regarding traditional karate.
Instead of allowing free fighting, which was created as a sport by the Japanese, to dictate the future direction of Okinawan karate, The Okinawans decided to eliminate sport karate from the World Tournament! In one action, Okinawa has re-defined what traditional karate represents. "Kata"!
I applaud this decision and action, since it will dictate a new and better direction for the traditional martial arts throughout the world. Sparring and sport karate won't be eliminated, but it will take its rightful place in the dojo. Bravo Okinawa, for finally taking a leadership position and providing a renewed life for the traditional martial arts.
Subject: Re: No Kumite for Okinawan World Tournament/Vcitor Smith's Question
Dear Cyber Dojo Membes,
The reason that the Okinawans decided after the 1997 world tournament held on Okinawa not to include kumite in future Okinawan tournaments was based on the fact that Okinawan karate is not Japanese and they wanted to focus spreading the Okinawan culural heritage of karate which does not include sparring. In fact many wanted to go to a format that only included demonstrations much like the Uchinan Chu Tai Kai but the element of selecting the best kata performers won out.Why did the continued competitive element win out? Because one of the purposes of the Okinawan World Tournament is to bring people to Okinawa and to see Okinawan Karate first hand.
In 1990, the first Uchinan Chu Tai Kai (Okinawan Peoples Festival) was held and karate was featured. There were over 3800 demonstrators of karate from Okinawa and many foreign countries. After the two days of demonstrations a symposium was held for the discussion of what direction Okinawan karate should take so that the Okinawan cultural heritage could be preserved and spread around the world. I was in attendance and listened carefully as the various senior teachers expressed their opinion. The result was the decision to host a world event that would bring all Okinawan karate practitoners to Okinawa. The format determined was the karate tournament based on the WKF model which was due to the influence of the Japanese Ministry of Education which funded the event. Without getting into more and more detail for those who may have no interest the evolution of this event(50 Years of Peace in the Pacific Celebration) led to the Okinawan Rengokai stepping up to sponsor the future even! ts and turning the focus to an Okinawan format rather than a WKF type.
The symposium was an historical event that I think someday will be recognized as a turning point event much like the 1937 meeting on Okinawa that ushered in the modern era of Okinawan karate. This symposium I think will be remembered as the point of returning to pre-introduction of karate to Japan. Some day perhaps someone who attended this event will record the discussions and provide a view to the attendees comments. I have the pictures and my view and would welcome a dialogue with anyone else who was present. I think the only other non-Okinawan there was sensei Frank Hargrove.
Gambatte
Dan Smith
April 27. 2003: Tournament update and other things.
Getting lots of advance registrations in for the N.E. Junior Championships. This is very encouraging, since normally applications don't start appearing until the deadline approaches. Thanks and keep them coming in. By the way, I was notified that there will be another division in the Junior and regular black belt division. In Point Sparring, we will offer a 13 and under, 14-15 and 16-17 year old divisions for both girls and boys.
We are also getting a number of adult applications in for the Uechi World Championships. Quite a few 5th and 6th dans have stated that they will be competing this year. Should be the best Uechi tournament ever held.
I met with the trophy manufacturer last week and commissioned a new Uechi medal to be used for all divisions and in both events. The two and a half inch medal will come in gold, silver and bronze. Very nice looking and something the winners will cherish for a lifetime. I have a very special award being created for the Grand Champions in light and heavy weight black belt sparring, kata (all black belt rank divisions), dan kumite and Black belt weapon's division.
Hope to see you all May 31st in Plymouth.
IUKF is growing quite rapidly. We now have member dojo, associate members and individual members throughout the world. IUKF is all about working together to build a stronger Uechi-ryu. Should you wish to support our efforts, please click here to join.
April 21, 2003: Congratulations Chris! Our newest Uechi-ryu Shodan heads for his US Navy assignment tomorrow. He was sick on Saturday, when his special test was scheduled, so we we had a first at the Mattson Dojo in Brockton this morning. Thanks to Steve White, Alan Moulton (Chris's father) and Chong (Mother) for helping out. Chris passed his test with flying colors. Good luck with the Navy!
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April 20, 2003: Looking forward to our Tournament!
There is a good reason I've been absent from the Forums and the web site this past month. In a word: Tournament! Wow. . . Talk about working non-stop.
I've been spoiled for the past eight years, while Rich Baptista did all the preparation work involved with running a tournament. I simply sent out invitations and showed up on tournament day. Rich told me he began working on his tournament six months before the event. He had a huge notebook with his time tested tournament blueprint, which he followed carefully and successfully for over 25 years. Well, this year Rich decided to take a break and I made the decision to carry on by myself with the Uechi Championships.
Although my notebook is a lot smaller than "Bap's", it nevertheless contains hundreds of details I never had to worry about before, such as location, trophies, ring placement, crowd control, police details and EMT help. I was very fortunate in locating a perfect location for the event: The Plymouth Sports Dome. It is a spacious facility with three soccer field size arenas, each large enough to host our event. We are still trying to decide whether the adult division will follow the junior tournament. I'm thinking that both can easily be held at the same time, providing we have enough officials for the kid's rings who are not planning to compete in the adult division.
Another advantage having our own tournament is that we can conduct the event in a more formal manner. All competitors and officials will be assembling in the third arena while the spectators are seated. When everyone is assembled, the tournament will begin with all the competitors and officials moving into their respective competition arenas. I will give a brief introduction, then turn the microphone over to the tournament coordinator, Jay Salhanick who will introduce the officials and briefly explain to the audience how an IUKF tournament is conducted. When the points are discussed, there will be a demonstration of points and penalties. Finally, Darrin Yee will sing our National Anthem to conclude the opening ceremonies.
There will be photographers in each of the competition arenas to take pictures of the winners in each division. These pictures will be published on the web and will be available for sale as well at the Uechi web store. We will also have a medal engraver on-site, who will be available to inscribe personal information on the winner's medals.
The Dome has a well stocked snack bar for competitors and spectators. All officials will receive a special pass entitling them entrance to the Official's Lounge area, where refreshment and food will be available throughout the event.
Competitors awaiting calls for their divisions, will have a spacious arena to warm-up or to rest.
We plan to conduct this tournament in a formal manner and will take our time in both the matches and awards presentation following each division. There will be a special award ceremony following the Junior and Adult tournament. We plan to conduct the final adult black belt matches and the 5th and 6th degree black belt kata matches during this award ceremony.
The winners of the N.E. Junior Uechi-ryu Championships will receive their awards and World Championship Belts will also be awarded to the adults at this this ceremony.
May 31st should be one of the best Uechi-ryu events ever held. Hope you plan to join us at the Plymouth dome to enjoy the competition with us.
March 3, 2003: Coming Together at Last!
After 40 plus years teaching Uechi-ryu, I really can say that Uechi-ryu teachers are finally getting their act together. There has been so much bickering and petty jealousies affecting our style over the years that the recent cooperation and interaction of the dojo has been most refreshing. Ironically, few of the practicing students even know why their teachers have had such hard feelings regarding their associates. Given the opportunity to work towards goals, like participating in team practice for tournaments, attending Regional Workouts and SummerFest, students focus their energies and stay excited and energized. . . A simple and effective way to help keep your students training.
Lets keep the momentum moving forward. Lets keep building that Uechi-ryu spirit. See you at the Uechi World Championships and Junior Uechi-ryu Championships: May 31st, 2003!
February 25, 2003: Lets Support the Mass Challenge!
Quite a few hard working tournament officials are ready to present the third event in the 2003 Junior Uechi-ryu Karate Championships. Len Testa's Mass Challenge will be held in Brockton this Sunday. Don't miss it! Len reports that advanced registrations have been excellent and that he expects the Mass Challenge will be a huge success.
New England Junior Uechi-ryu Karate Championship Series
Ages 4-17 Arnone School
Brockton, MA
Sanctioned by: The International Uechi-Ryu Karate Federation (IUKF)
Registration begins at 8:00 First divisions start at 9:00 AM SHARP!
All competitors will receive an award for participation.
Medals & Points will be awarded to those who finish 1st thru 4th
109 divisions separated by ability for Kata, Kyu, Dan, & Yakusoku Kumite, Weapons and Demonstration
-Separate divisions for Black Belt
WELCOME TO THE 2nd TOURNAMENT OF THE 1st ANNUAL NEW ENGLAND JUNIOR UECHI-RYU KARATE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
Thank you in visiting the Page for the 2nd of THREE tournaments that makes up the Championship Series. By competing in the THREE tournaments, each participant that attains a 1st- 4th place finish in any division will accrue points toward the Grand Championship held at the 9th Annual Uechi-ryu World Championship in May
We will be using IUKF Sanctioned rules, and Officials
Rules will be mailed to each dojo and can be obtained from this website.
We also plan to make this series as affordable as possible by keeping the registration and spectator fees very reasonable.
We hope to make this Series a worthwhile and memorable event for all who partake, spectators included. Staff will be on hand throughout the event to answer any questions and to keep things moving along.
We look forward to seeing you on March 2, 2003!
Len Testa Tournament Promoter Mass Challenge
TOURNAMENT INFORMATION Date: March 2, 2003
Eliminations: Tournament begins at 9:00AM...Please be on time...No Refunds will be granted
Awards: 1st – 4th place Medals and Points Participant awards for all Finalists.
Rules: All divisions will use IUKF approved Rules
Location: Arnone School, Belmont St. (RT 123), Brockton, MA
Legal Age Rule: Please bring birth certificate. Do NOT MAIL Birth Certificate
Early Registration: Before February 22nd, 2003 $15.00 all events ****ATTN SENSEI, Do not send PACKETS of Registration Forms to the address on the Forms or below. Please call 508-583-2122 to obtain Mailing Address for PACKETS. Day of Event Registration: $20.00 all events NO PERSONAL CHECKS ACCEPTED ON THE DAY OF THE EVENT
Spectator Fees: $3.00...Children under 3 are free.
Medical: Staff will be on site
Additional Info Contact: Len Testa Brockton Uechi-Ryu Karate Academy 55 Oak Street Extension, Cardinale Plaza Brockton, MA 023o1 508-583-2122 or BUKASensei@attbi.com
Director: Len Testa
Coordination and Rules Arbitration Team: Steve Diorio, Jay Salhanick, Alan Azoff
February 21, 2003: Future looks good for WinterFest!
I was a little nervous when Roy Bedard kept insisting that we move ahead with this year's WinterFest. Not that I didn't want to spend a week in the sun. . . especially after discovering I had missed the major part of a historical snow storm in Boston. . . But because of the lateness in identifying a site and because as of January 25th, we really didn't have a clue who would be supporting it, I was all for calling off the Fest for the second year.
Manny did a fine job pulling things together at the last minute and of course Roy was constantly working behind the scenes, making sure all the loose ends were tied together. Ironically, we found most of our support outside the Uechi community. Although not totally unexpected, I was hoping that a few more of the locals would have been curious and would have dropped in to see what the "Fest" is all about.
Although we won't be giving up on the Florida Uechi family, next year we will be introducing a whole new concept in events that will cater to open-minded martial artist from all systems. Our criteria will be an expansion of the successful SummerFest format, with a couple of secret twists that should, according to Roy, propel WinterFest into the major leagues. Watch the WinterFest site for details and plan to join us in 2004. [click here to view pictures of WinterFest workouts]
So Long "Hiro"!
The "Hut" has been very fortunate to have been hosting
Hiroaki Uechi during his stay in Boston and will be taking his last class with
us this Saturday. "Hiro" has been taking Post-Doctorate classes at
Boston University for the past year and sharing his Tokyo based Uechi-ryu
methods with us on Saturdays. Unfortunately, I had to miss his going away party
last Saturday, but "Hiro" sent this picture for posting:
Left to right: Harvey Liebergott, "Hiro", Fedele Cacia, Susan, Marcia and Paul Giella. (Paul and Marcia hosted the party)
January 19, 2003: Certification of officials going well!
Jay Salhanick's ongoing hard work is paying off. Another packed house attended the third training session today, hosted by Mike Murphy and his Randolph students and teachers.
The opening comments by Jay, focused on the rules, uniform and equipment requirements. Tournament promoters were asked to include with the application a brief description of what was expected of the competitor on the day of the tournament. Each competitor must enter the ring area outfitted with a clean white uniform in good repair. Every competitor must know the rules for his/her division. Every competitor must know the equipment rule for his/her division. No excuses. . . No exceptions.
Jay announced that John Cierri will be conducting a sanctioned tournament in Florida this Spring. John is a fantastic martial artist and has been very involved with tournaments for many years. Jay is also talking with seniors from other parts of the country, who wish to get involved with this Championship series. Anyone interested can post a message to Jay on his Forum.
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