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SKS students along with Thomas Sensei and Laura Sensei made the scenic drive to Kelowna, Canada, for an unforgettable seminar with Sakurai Shihan and Sharp Sensei. Set against the stunning backdrop of British Columbia’s mountains and lakes, the training provided an ideal blend of discipline, focus, and camaraderie. Sakurai Shihan’s precise teaching emphasized kata refinement and the importance of balance, breathing, and attention to detail. His depth of knowledge and traditional approach left everyone inspired to perfect their techniques. Sakurai Shihan brought his signature energy and insight, focusing on kumite drills, and pushing students to step out of their comfort zones. For the SKS students, the trip was worth it. The seminar reignited their love for karate and strengthened their dedication to the art. It was a powerful reminder of how training can transform not just skills but the spirit behind karate. Grateful to Paul Sensei, head instructor of Kelowna Karate & Fitness Inc., for inviting SKS to the seminar. The SKS delegation felt an immediate connection to both the location and the dojo, receiving a warm and gracious welcome from everyone they interacted with.

Sensei Thomas, representing Team USA, achieved an incredible milestone on October 26, 2024. He won the 70-74-year-old kumite championship at the Japan Funakoshi Gichin Cup 16th Karate World Championship. This prestigious event, named in honor of Shotokan founder Gichin Funakoshi, brought together top karatekas from around the globe. Sensei’s victory is a testament to his lifelong dedication to karate and his inspiring skill. A seasoned martial artist and SKS chief Instructor faced fierce competitors, drawing on his decades of training to claim the gold in Kumite (free sparring). Congratulations to Sensei—our champion, teacher, and inspiration—on bringing home gold and representing Team USA with honor . Sensei's victory is a proud moment for SKS, Team USA, and all his students, who have witnessed firsthand his dedication to the art and the values he embodies. Sensei’s achievement is more than a personal triumph; it inspires all and proves that age and experience are assets in pursuing excellence.

Training in Japan at the Japan Karate Association (JKA) camp is a transformative experience for any karateka. For Senpai Dulce, this journey was a dream realized—a chance to train under world-class JKA instructors and immerse in the culture that gave birth to Shotokan karate. Training alongside 800 Karate practitioners, 3Kyu and above, from around 130 countries, Senpai felt a part of a global community united by their love and respect for karate. The humility, patience, and pursuit of mastery by participants of all ages left a lasting impression. Each day at the JKA camp was a test of endurance and precision. The training heavily emphasized kihon (basics), kata, and kumite (sparring), focusing on powerful stances and precise technique execution. "The JKA camp was a profound learning experience, but I had mixed feelings about aging before heading to Japan. However, seeing so many people like me from around the world was amazing, and I felt privileged to attend the camp. Yes, I was a bit slower than some of the younger, fitter practitioners preparing for the JKA World Championship, but I felt fortunate to have experienced something unique. I was happy to observe that, for me and others, the spirit of karate has no age barrier. I learned from this journey that the most important thing is to pace myself, always give my best, and consistently show up to practice. Karate goes beyond the dojo—it's a way of life. There was familiarity and comfort, and the experience of training with people from around the world was magical and incomparable. It made me see so clearly that each of us practices karate in our own way, whether old or young, overweight or underweight, unfocused or focused, world-class competitor or little old lady like me; this is a microcosm of life. There was a familiar aspect, yet there were nuances, new details, and new perspectives. In terms of athletic ability, power, and strength, each person was different, with varying levels of readiness and execution. But the spirit of karate was the same, and nothing can truly describe what it is like to participate in such a camp. " - Senpai Dulce Bustamante. Senpai felt incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to visit and train at the historic Hoitsugan Dojo , the private dojo of the late Masatoshi Nakayama Sensei, the founding Chief Instructor of the JKA. The Hoitsugan Dojo and dormitory were set up in 1972 by the late JKA Chief Instructor Nakayama Sensei. The purpose was to create a place to train and stay for people coming to Tokyo worldwide. Takuya Taniyama Sensei and Satoshi Takahashi Sensei led the session. The training was a meticulously structured and physically challenging yet equally fulfilling experience.

Oregon Karate Championship was held at Yoshida Event Center, Gresham, OR, on April 27, 2024, and was marked by its focus on traditional karate, friendship, and learning. The organizer hosted a respectful karate competition based on the USA Karate (USOC).  The tournament was conducted professionally, featuring unbiased and fair judging alongside excellent organization, ensuring smooth operations. With JKA Oregon Shiba Dojo group, which is registered directly with the Japan Karate Association (JKA) World Headquarters (Sou Hombu Dojo) in Tokyo, Japan, and is focused on maintaining JKA's integrity and high standards.

Since spring 2024, various events across California, Arizona, and Oregon have focused on preparing the Northwest members of Team USA for the upcoming JKA World Cup in October, officially known as the prestigious 'Funakoshi Gichin Cup Karate World Championship Tournament.' Sensei Thomas, a seasoned JKA TEAM USA member competing in the senior category this fall, has undergone rigorous training throughout the year and led instructional sessions at multiple camps. The world championship is an event to promote the correct dissemination of Karatedo worldwide and contribute to world peace based on the teachings of Supreme Master Funakoshi. About 130 countries worldwide are members of the Japan Karate Association now, and the world championship tournament, named Funakoshi Gichin Cup, has been held in many countries worldwide every three years. It is equivalent to Olympic competition for members of the JKA-Japan Karate Association, the only independent karate entity legally and officially recognized by the Japanese government. Another milestone for SKS was the participation of its students in the inaugural JKA Gasshuku in the Pacific Northwest, hosted by JKA Oregon Shiba Dojo in Beaverton in August, where they excelled in the kata and kumite tournament.

The martial arts world is excited as the U.S. JKA team prepares to represent the country at the prestigious World JKA (Japan Karate Association) Tournament, held in Japan this month. Among the elite athletes traveling to the birthplace of karate is SKS's Chief Instructor, Sensei Mathew Thomas, a highly respected and key team member competing in Kata (form) and Kumite (sparring) in the 70-74 category. A Path of Commitment and Mastery The road to the World JKA Tournament has been a long and disciplined one for Sensei Thomas. He has devoted his life to mastering the art of Shotokan karate. For Sensei Thomas, representing the U.S. at such a prestigious tournament is an honor and a challenge. He carries with him years of experience, having trained under some of the finest instructors - Yaguchi and Field Sensei, and competed at national and international levels. His commitment to the traditional values of karate—respect, discipline, and perseverance—has earned him recognition in the karate community. A Global Karate Stage The World JKA Tournament is one of the most significant events in the global karate calendar. It brings together top karate practitioners worldwide to compete. What makes the tournament especially important is the level of technical proficiency required. The JKA follows strict Shotokan karate principles, and only the most disciplined and skilled martial artists can rise to the top in this competitive arena. For the U.S. team, competing in Japan—the homeland of karate—is an immense opportunity to experience karate at its roots. The tournament is not just a competition; it's an event that celebrates the legacy and spirit of traditional Shotokan karate. It provides a rare chance for international practitioners to engage in friendly competition while deepening their understanding of this ancient martial art. The Legacy of Sensei Thomas Sensei Thomas embodies the essence of karate. Known for his technical precision, powerful kata, and deep sense of humility, he has inspired countless students over the years. His teaching philosophy goes beyond the physical aspects of karate; he emphasizes the importance of karate as a way of life. Students often remark how his lessons help them develop self-discipline, mental clarity, and respect on and off the mat. As he embarks on this journey to Japan, Sensei Thomas carries with him the support and admiration of his students, colleagues, and the broader U.S. karate community. A Moment of Pride for SKS Sensei Thomas’ participation in the World JKA Tournament is a momentous occasion for SKS. His journey serves as a reminder that the values instilled in karate—perseverance, respect, and humility—can lead to great accomplishments even at 70. For the students of SKS, seeing their Chief Instructor compete on the world stage is an affirmation of the lessons they’ve learned from him. His journey represents his dedication, the strength of the SKS organization, and its commitment to fostering excellence in karate. His journey to the world stage is an inspiration, and we look forward to seeing him represent the United States with the same honor, skill, and integrity he brings to his role as Chief Instructor at SKS.