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| SHITO RYU KARATE |
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 The
word karate comes from the two words "kara" (empty) and "te"
(hand). Thus, karate is known as "empty-hand" and is considered
the most efficient and effective way of unarmed combat. Karate itself
teaches students to move quickly, block effectively, create strong stances
and make powerful strikes using hands and feet.
Shito-Ryu Karate was founded by Kenwa Mabuni. He named his style after
his two teachers, Itosu and Higaonna. The word "shito" comes
from the Japanese characters used to write his teachers' names, while
"ryu" means style - hence the name Shito-Ryu.
Shito-Ryu develops character by training the practitioner physically,
mentally, and spiritually. The aim is to develop all aspects in a
harmonious manner. Since Karate is taught in a disciplined manner, it acts
to discourage those of weak character who might use the art in a
dishonourable way. Karate without character is violence. The five rules of
Seikokai, recited before every practice, translate into English as:
- Be moderate and courteous
- Be righteous and have a strong sense of justice
- Be modest in your words and actions
- Respect others
- Karate-do is a lifetime study
Following Mabuni's death, his student, Sakagami, founded the Itosukai
Association. The main headquarters remain in Yokohama, Japan to this day.
With the passing of Sakagami, Grand Master Suzuki created the Seikokai
Association. Tokyo is the now the main base for the Seikokai Association.
Shito-Ryu is one of the four main styles of Karate, and has
practitioners worldwide. Our style, formally known as Shito-Ryu Seikokai,
is presently headed by Grand Master Seiko Suzuki in Japan. The Pan
American Master, or Shihan, of Shito-Ryu Seikokai is Akira Sato of
Vancouver. Shihan Sato was a student of Grand Master Suzuki. As you can
see, lineage generally follows through your instructor.
Shihan Akira Sato was born in Tokyo, Japan, in 1944. His father was a
policeman and a judo practitioner. When Grand Master Suzuki created the
Seikokai Association, Sato was promoted to his new position. Shihan Sato
obtained a Bachelor of Sociology from Hosey University and a Teaching
Certificate for Social Studies before moving to Canada in 1970.
Shito-Ryu Seikokai hosts an annual tournament which invites athletes from
across Canada and around the world. Over 500 competitors participate,
vying for the popular Sato Cup. The association also performs
demonstrations and has an annual summer camp where the community is
invited to watch or participate. Workshops by internationally renowned
Karate practitioners are often hosted by Shito-Ryu clubs.
By Andreas Kuntze - Shito-Ryu Seiko-Kai Copyright
2006 www.shitoryu.net |
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