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See a little video on Facebook.

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Bermuda’s karate community gathered at the 2nd Annual Kazumi Tabata Open in the Whitney Institute Auditorium, where Tony Cabral emerged as the overall winner.

A spokesperson said, “The Whitney Institute Auditorium was filled with the spirit of martial arts as Bermuda’s karate community came together for the 2nd Annual Kazumi Tabata Open. Hosted by the Tabata-Ha Karate Dojo, the event saw participants from local dojos showcase their skills and dedication to the art of karate.

“Represented at the event were esteemed dojos, including Harto Ryu Dojo, Budokan Dojo, Bermuda Uechi-Ryu Academy, Bermuda Shorikan, and Bodhidharma Zenji Ryu Dojo. This gathering of local talent added to the competitive atmosphere and showcased the unity within Bermuda’s karate community.

“The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the remarkable performances by the participants. In the under 15 male advanced division, Will Spriggs delivered a breakout kata performance that captivated the audience and earned him well-deserved recognition. It’s worth noting that this was Will Spriggs’ inaugural appearance at a Shotocup-hosted event, making his achievement even more impressive.

“One of the standout competitors of the day was Noah Lowe, who once again demonstrated his exceptional skills, securing another gold medal to add to his impressive collection.

“However, the pinnacle of the event was the crowning of the overall winner, Tony Cabral. With an outstanding total of 90 points, Cabral emerged as the victor, earning the prestigious Kazumi Tabata Memorial Cup. This remarkable feat cements his legacy as one of Bermuda’s top karate practitioners.

“Edmond Johnson, General Secretary of the Bermuda Karate Federation, expressed his delight in witnessing the emergence of new talents within the karate community. He also emphasized the importance of preserving the memory and legacy of Sensei Kazumi Tabata, whose influence continues to shape Bermuda’s karate landscape.

“The 2nd Annual Kazumi Tabata Open served as a testament to the enduring spirit of karate in Bermuda, where tradition and excellence continue to thrive.”

Photos at Bernews.

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Registration at Shotocup.com!

2023 Kazumi Karate Open

Hosted By The Tabata -Ha Dojo

In honor of the late Sensei Kazumi Tabata, we invite you to be a part of the highly anticipated 2nd Annual Kazumi Tabata Karate Open. This event pays tribute to Sensei Tabata’s remarkable contributions to the world of karate and his lasting legacy as a true master.

Save the Date: December 3, 2023
Venue: Whitney Institute
Registration Deadline: November 20, 2023

Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or new to the tournament scene, this is your chance to showcase your karate skills and pay homage to Sensei Tabata’s teachings. Step onto the mat with confidence and determination as you strive for excellence in your kata, kumite, or kobudo divisions.

We welcome karate athletes from all levels and ages to participate and experience the spirit of competition in a supportive and respectful environment. It’s an opportunity to meet fellow karate enthusiasts, challenge yourself, and honor the legacy of Sensei Tabata.

To secure your place in this prestigious event, make sure to register by the deadline of November 20, 2023. Don’t miss this chance to be a part of the 2nd Annual Kazumi Tabata Karate Open and showcase your dedication, skill, and passion for the martial arts.

Get ready to channel your energy, focus your mind, and unleash your true potential on the mat. Join us on December 12th at Whitney Institute for a day filled with thrilling karate performances, camaraderie, and the celebration of Sensei Tabata’s enduring legacy.

See you at the 2nd Annual Kazumi Tabata Karate Open!

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“I was in the Tufts Karate Club in 1967 – 69 led by Mr. Tabata, Mr. Muoroka [sic: we think “Maruoka”] and Mr. Kowabura. Mr. Kowabura didn’t know what to do with me, the only girl.”

So we immediately messaged her and asked for any stories she might like to share!

“Stories? I may have a few. Mr. Muroaka was the only one of the three sensei who could speak English well, but one day while sparring, he was kicked in the jaw, breaking it. Instead of speaking well he could hardly speak at all with his jaw wired.

Then there was the time when we were sparring and I missed and actually hit him. He (Mr. Muroaka) just bopped me back right on the nose. I learned my lesson!

The last time I saw Mr. Muroaka was at a good-bye party just before he left in a VW bus with the intention of driving to South America looking for diamonds. I’ve always wondered how far he got.

Several of us went to Mr. Tabata’s apartment one evening and drank sake with him. I clearly remember him rolling the windows down on the drive home so that he could yell at all the pretty girls he saw on the street.

I remember the discipline, standing in a kibadachi stance with someone on my shoulders for fifteen minutes. As the only girl in the club I was very proud when I defeated all the boys in a round robin tournament and got to be Captain of the club.

Unfortunately I left Tufts half way through my third year. I tried other karate classes over the years, but never found a sensei as inspirational as Mr. Tabata.”

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Charles Butterfield Sensei – Community Award acknowledging his exceptional efforts in promoting unity within the karate community through kindness, collaboration, and a shared passion for the sport.

Charles Ndiaye- Directors Award

Khwai Mendoza- Directors Award

Vincent Lightbourne- Directors Award

Amarriah Vaughans – Directors Award

Great job everyone

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Students of all levels and organizational or dojo affiliation are invited to come give it a try! Other kata will be covered depending on time and student request. Please arrive a little early so we can start on time.

A $5 donation for the use of the space is requested.

Location is Doshi Kai in Acton, MA, same as the regular Budokas trainings.

We hope to see you there for this unique opportunity!

Facebook Event Page. Also listed on the calendar at NEKarateEvents.com.

Sensei Harb’s Karate Bio:

Robert Harb has been teaching Shotokan Karate for over 48 years and holds the rank of 6th dan from Master Kazumi Tabata. He also holds a second degree black belt in Kyokushinkai-Kan and a kyu rank in Kodokan Judo. He was a co-founder of the Boston University Shotokan Karate-Do Club and is a former member of the North American Karate-Do Club International Karate Team and the New England AAU Karate Team. He has competed for many years at karate tournaments and events at all levels and holds local, regional and national trophies and medals for kumite, kata and weapons. He is a former AAU Nationally Certified Karate Judge. Harb has also been twice a Coach of the North American Collegiate Karate Conference International Karate Team who competed in Tokyo, Japan. In 2022, Harb was inducted into the USAKF Hall of Fame as a Coach, Official and Administrator for his lifelong work in the martial arts.

To get notices of more open events like this one straight to your inbox, sign up for the email list at nekarateevents.com

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This is a short excerpt from the Budokas practice on July 9. Chip on defense only, and bits of John, Marcelo, and Greg’s turns on offense. Class started with basics then on to about 35 minutes of this. There were six attackers total. Same defender. The drill is that attacker goes at a light, medium pace, and the defender simply moves and blocks. Defender does not counter. This is a movement and vision exercise.

Visit budokas.com, check the calendar, and sign up for the email list if you would like to be informed of this or other New England area karate events. Everyone is welcome at these workouts.

Other related sites:
NEKarateEvents.com

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