In less than 14 weeks I'll be in Okinawa, Japan with 7 others from my dojo. The trip was initiated by Sensei Sean Wong and everyone is excited to go! Eager to see the land of the Rising Sun are Janet Wellsman Thomson (Manager), Brian Yee (Coach), myself Roz Corey and 4 of our black belt athletes competing in the 2003 Okinawa Karatedo and Kubudo World Tournament in Okinawa Prefectural Hall of Martial Arts: Mark Soto, Scott Davidson, Scott Waslenko and Calvin Chih. The tournament is from Saturday August 16th through to Tuesday August 19th.

Okinawa's "Message of Courtesy" to the World:
(courtesy of www.markhammeibukai.com)

Okinawa's Karatedo and Kubudo traditions are derived from our ancestors who were against weapons and held peace dear. As true arts of self-defense, these have been passed down as means to cultivate and discipline both body and spirit.

The 2003 Okinawa Karatedo and Kubudo World Tournament will convene to pass on, perpetuate, and further develop the tenets of Okinawan Karatedo and Kubudo through exchange with Karatedo and Kubudo enthusiasts from around the world.