Gaithersburg, Maryland
GAITHERSBURG, MARYLAND: April 18, 19 & 20, 2008
View the 2008 Seminar Photo Slideshow>>
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The 2008 seminar had a different format this year. We had two instructors, focusing on instruction in Ten Shin Ichi Ryu and Goju-Ryu Karate with Shiro Shintaku, Doshu (TSIR), and Motoo Yamakura, Hanshi (Goju-Ryu Karate-Do Kyokai). Each instructor has over 40 years of martial arts experience, Doshu Shintaku is the founder of TSIR, Yamakura Hanshi is the head of the Goju-Ryu Karate Do Kyokai. This year, we wanted to focus on longer sessions with these instructors and one break out session in Kendo training. Participants enjoyed this focused training, as it gave an opportunity for more detailed instruction in TSIR and Goju Ryu Karate.
We were also honored with a Proclamation by the City of Gaithersburg and Mayor Katz. The Proclamation recognized Doshu's work in teaching and sharing non-aggressive techniques in the martial arts. The Proclamation reads:
"Proclamation from the Mayor and City Council of Gaithersburg designating April 19, 2008 as Ten Shin Ichi Ryu Day in special honor and recognition of Doshu Shiro Shintaku and his commitment to teaching cultural understanding, international cooperation, non-aggressive self-defense and discipline through a martial arts and training system that focuses on mental and physical development, promoting health and happiness." Thank you to Mayor Katz for his time and kindness.
The seminar was held at Bohrer Park Recreation Center (Gaithersburg, Maryland) - a fantastic location and training facility. We had a huge gym to ourselves the entire weekend. We'll be returning to this location for next year.
Congratulations to both Rob Hafford and Eric Wagner for passing their rank tests!
Thank you to Motoo Yamakura Hanshi, all those who paticipated & helped to make the day possible, our friends from the Ambler Goju Karate school, and Bob Drzyzgula. Please contact the TSIR office if you would like a copy of the photos shown in this slideshow (participants only).