Training with Legends
During my trip last month to Okinawa Japan, I was honored to have been given the chance to train with two Okinawan Karate Masters that have just recently been featured on the cover of the last two issues of Classical Fighting Arts Magazine. Zempo Shimabukuru Sensei 10th Dan in Shorin Ryu Karate (Left) and Tsuyoshi Uechi 8th Dan in Isshin Ryu Karate (Right). Both of these Okinawan masters are truly amazing to watch first hand. One being a master in Shorin Ryu Karate, the other a master in Isshin Ryu Karate. Both men are over the age of 60, and physically seem to be that of about 35 years old. Both were direct students of teachers that are now recognized on Okinawa as Karate Legends. The skill and discipline that true Okinawan Masters have is not only inspiring, but has yet again demonstrated that the understanding the Okinawan’s have of Karate is on a level that leaves most all western students looking like beginners. Including myself. It humbles me and motivates me at the same time, which I think is what all students need to continue pursuing perfection. After all, the virtue of perfection is that it is always just beyond ones reach. If perfection were ATTAINABLE then it would have no value. There would be no reason to pursue it ! ! -”Miyamoto Musashi”
For more information on these two Okinawan masters, check back in a few weeks for background and history on both of these Masters.
