WINGHAM martial arts sensei, John Carlyle, and two of his students have travelled to Japan for the 75th anniversary of the founding of Matsubayashi-Ryu Karate.
The week-long event in Okinawa was attended by more than 200 karate students from throughout the world.
Countries participating included the United States, Argentina, Britain, Ireland, Norway, Canada, New Zealand, Mainland Japan, Germany, Spain, Dominican Republic and Australia.
“It is unusual and very interesting to have so many black belts in the one place,” John said. “The building complex where the celebrations were held is purpose-built for martial arts. It is absolutely incredible.”
Sensei John was joined by students Rebecca Sheather and Vanessa Porter – the trio all being members of the Matsubayashi-Ryu Karate Association of Australia (MKAA).
John has been involved in martial arts for 35 years and has made many trips to Okinawa.
The city is considered the birthplace of karate and the MKAA, which teaches genuine, authentic karate as taught by John’s master Soke Takayoshi Nagamine.
Soke Nagamine has visited Australia twice and stayed locally to train karate students of the MKAA. John says Soke Nagamine will return next year to give further instruction.
During the 75th anniversary events, Rebecca was tested and received the rank of Sandan (3rd Dan black belt). It is believed Rebecca is the first female in Australia to achieve this rank in Matsubayashi-Ryu Karate.
The MKAA conducts karate classes in Wingham, Taree and Harrington. One of John’s former students, Rece Cummings, also teaches karate in Canberra under the Matsubayashi-Ryu banner.
Contact John Carlyle on 6556 0218 or visit http://www.matsubayashi-ryu.com.a u/
for further information on how you can get involved in Matsubayashi-Ryu.
Email a friend