A nine-member delegation from Okinawa visited the United States from November 13 to 16 to promote the 3rd Okinawa Karate World Championships scheduled for July 30 to August 2 next year in Okinawa. Centered in Washington DC and Virginia, they conducted a wide-ranging program including cultural exchange and the promotion of martial arts.
Approximately 150 participants from the U.S. and abroad gathered at a karate seminar held at a hotel in Herndon, Virginia. The event fostered interaction among a diverse range of participants, from children to seniors.
Nestor Folta, the Director of Chantilly Family Martial Arts and an experienced practitioner, served as the coordinator for the event's planning. The event featured a national entrance parade, a Ryukyu dance performance, and the athletes' oath.
Karate and kobudo instruction was provided by four instructors: Shimbukuro Zenshun, 7th dan (Shorin-ryu); Uechi Sadanao, 7th dan (Uechi-ryu, President of the Uechi-ryu Karate Association); Gibo Takahiko, 8th dan (Shorin-ryu/Kobudo); and Kikugawa Masanari, 10th dan (Goju-ryu).
One participant, Jess Anderson, said, "It was spectacular and wonderful. I am honored to have been a part of this event."
Participants emphasized the value of receiving direct instruction from Okinawa's top karate masters.
"Normally, it costs thousands of dollars to go to Okinawa. We were able to receive this training in our own backyard for free," said Nevin Sherlock.
Richard Russo reflected, "Being able to train with four Okinawan masters in one event was moving and filled with positive energy."
Beyond the seminar, the delegation strengthened ties with Okinawan immigrant communities through visits to the Japanese Embassy in Washington DC, the George Washington University's Germanic Library (which houses Okinawan collections), and a meeting with the Okinawa Kai of Washington DC.
No matter who sees it, the wisdom and action of Mr. Folta's introduction and display of Ryukyu culture without focusing only on karate will be moved by his insight.
