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08-11-10 Adnan Safak Yuksel, Hanshi, President of the Turkish Dentokan National Federation and Director of Dentokan Operations in the Near East, Middle East, Central Asia, and North Africa has additionally been appointed as a "International Representative-At-Large". This appointment is based upon his tireless efforts at establishing the Dentokan in nations as diverse as Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein, Australia, Azerbajan, Nakhichevan, Nagorno Karabakh, and Armenia. 07-13-10 A Message from Col Hobbs: 06-16-10 The Seidokan Dojo of Leland, North Carolina will be sponsoring a Dentokan seminar 27-29 August 2010. A Shorin-Ryu Karate-Do session will be taught the evening of the 27th. All day courses in Dentokan Aiki Jujutsu will be taught on the 28th and 29th. All sessions will be personally taught by Col Roy J. Hobbs, Hanshi, President of the Sekai Dentokan Bugei Renmei, Inc. and U.S. Representative of the Zen Nihon Budo Renmei, Kyoto, Japan. For additional information please contact Sensei Mike Holmes at: mikerubyholmes@bellsouth.net . Sensei Holmes has been a student of Sensei Hobbs since the early 1970's. Sensei Holmes and Sensei Hobbs were Brother-In-Arms in the North Carolina Army National Guard (Mechanized Infantry).
06-15-10 This is an absolutely huge announcement: The Vice President of the Sekai Dentokan Bugei Renmei, Inc. and President of the Dentokan Great Britain has been awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by the Queen of England. On behalf of the worldwide Dentokan family we offer our hearty congratulations. 06-02-10 A message from Erik Johnstone (Dentokan Aikijujutsu Shihan & Special Advisor for Dentokan East Coast Operations) of Shindokan Dojo/Black Bear Traditional Martial Arts Center, Pawcatuck, Connecticut: 05-24-10 A message from Erik Johnstone (Dentokan Aikijujutsu Shihan & Special Advisor for Dentokan East Coast Operations) of Shindokan Dojo/Black Bear Traditional Martial Arts Center, Pawcatuck, Connecticut: 05-07-10 A Message from Adnan Safak Yuksel, Hanshi in Turkiye/Turkey: 05-06-10 Hi Everyone! 02-16-10 Erik Johnstone (Dentokan Aikijujutsu Shihan & Special Advisor for Dentokan East Coast Operations) of Shindokan Dojo/Black Bear Traditional Martial Arts Center has correctly taken the initiative in the New England area of the United States by teaching an instructor-foundation-series of Dentokan Aikijujutsu courses. He will be leading the second installment of this Dentokan Aikijujutsu Instructor Development Workshop Series on March 21, 2010. The first session was held on January 24th and was attended by new Dentokan members from New York; Karate-do yudansha from Black Bear; and Johnstone Sensei's senior students at Shindokan Dojo.
02-15-10 Message from Erik Johnstone of the Shindokan dojo in Pawcatuck, Connecticut: "I am looking to schedule a seminar with Hobbs Sensei in June. Based on his schedule, we will be looking at the first or last weekend in June. We will spend two days on Dentokan Aikijujutsu and perhaps include a third session for Goju-ryu Karate-do for those interested." If anyone is interested in attending this seminar please contact Johnstone Sensei. His contact information can be found by going to the following website:
02-12-10 There are a number of upcoming seminars at which Sensei Hobbs will be teaching. These seminars are in various stages of finalization. But, we wanted to get the word out so our members would be aware, and could plan accordingly. As details are firmed up we'll provide additional information: 02-11-10 Please see the revised schedule for the Dentokan's Annual International Seminar and Conference: 01-01-10 Effective 1 January 2010, the Sekai Dentokan Bugei Renmei was legally incorporated in accordance with the laws of the State of Illinois, U.S.A. This was a logical and necessary next step as the Dentokan has grown exponentially over the past several years. 12-29-09 From Hobbs Hanshi: What is the Sekai Dentokan Bugei Renmei's status as it relates to Okinawa Seidokan Karate-Do? First one must understand that the Sekai Dentokan Bugei Renmei is what is often described as a Sogo Bugei/Budo (combined martial arts/martial ways) group. It is a group which contains more than just Karate, and most of its members practice more than just one art. The Karate practiced within the Dentokan includes both Goju-Ryu and Shorin-Ryu. Our Shorin-Ryu is not simply Seidokan Karate. Our Shorin-Ryu is strongly influenced by two main sources, and one lessor source. The primary, of the two main Shorin-Ryu influences, is the Karate of Toma Seiki Hanshi (deceased) of the Okinawa Shorin-Ryu Karate-Do Seidokan Kyokai. The secondary main influence is the Karate of Toma Shian Hanshi of the Okinawa Seidokan Karate Kobudo Renmei. The lessor influence, especially as it relates to our kihon waza (basic techniques), is from the Shurite/Tomarite elements contained within Nihon (Japanese) Karate-Do. Thus, Dentokan Shorin-Ryu Karate-Do does not simply translate into Seidokan Karate-Do or vise versa. While they have much in common, especially as it relates to kata embusen, they are not synonymous with one another. 12-05-09 Dentokan Karate and Kobudo Association of Zambia held the newly introduced annual event at Andrews Motel on Saturday 05th December 2009. 11-18-09 For those interested, Renshi Andy Bryant of the Indianapolis Denbukan recently had an article published in the Journal of Asian Martial Arts (JAMA). Andy has been instrumental in helping us to improve and expand our Iaijutsu program.
10-12-09 We are pleased to announce the following appointments: Eric Johnstone to the position of Special Advisor for Dentokan East Coast Operations & Andy Bryant to the position of Special Advisor for Dentokan Mid-West Operations. These gentlemen, along with Robin Ramirez, Special Advisor for Dentokan West Coast Operations, will be assisting Col Hobbs and Dr. Nemeth with the ongoing growth of the Dentokan within the U.S.A. 10-10-09 Special Announcement: Dr. Mike Nemeth has been appointed the President of the U.S. Dentokan National Federation. Col Hobbs will step down from this position, so as to better manage the larger worldwide Dentokan family. Mike has been a 40 year friend and student of Sensei Hobbs, having grown up together and trained together from the very early years until today. A sincere thanks to Dr. Nemeth for taking this on. 09-28-09 The latest iteration of the Dentokan Aikijujutsu Instructors' series of courses took place at the Bakersfield Budokan on September 25 & 27, with the main focus being the reviewing of Shihan Gi and the initial teaching of Kaiden Gi. Also, during the evening of September 25, Sensei Hobbs took the opportunity to teach and correct the kata of Dentokan Goju-Ryu Karate-Do for the Goju-Ryu practitioners in attendance. Promotions resulting from the seminar were as follows: 09-07-09 Sensei Hobbs again visited his many students and friends in Turkiye/Turkey. The visit was organized by Adnan Safak Yuksel, Hanshi. Sensei and Diane stayed with Sensei Yuksel and his lovely family during the visit. Emine, Safak's wife, worked very hard during the visit and her efforts are very muched appreciated. Other long time friends who were of endless service and assistance were Celali, Sami, and Gurhan. During the visit Sensei Hobbs and Diane had the wonderful opportunity of visiting various sights throughout Turikye, to include: Gelibolu/Gallipoli, Canakkale, Troy, Pergamum, Assos, Ayvalik, Bodrum, Izmir, and Ephesus. Sensei Hobbs highly recommends anyone looking for a great vacation spot, to visit Turkiye. The historical sights are awesome, the beaches are wonderful, and the people endlessly friendly.
08-05-09 We are pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Charles Gallacher as the Representative for Dentokan Aikijujutsu in Scotland. Sensei Gallacher has been a Dentokan member since 2007, and came to us with a wealth of knowledge and experience in Jujutsu, Judo, and Aikido. His last grading was to Rokudan & Shihan in Yoshin-Ryu Jujutsu. A hearty Dentokan family congratulations to Sensei Gallacher on his appointment. 07-31-09 Our annual Dentokan seminar was held on the grounds of Moulton College, Moulton, Nothampton, England from 15 July through 19 July 2009. Seventeen nationalities were represented at this year's event, to include a significant delegation from Zambia. This year's event truly set a benchmark for organizational excellence under the leadership and hard work of Eddie Cinquini, Neil Malpas, and Jo Marshall. This was a truly special event for Col Hobbs as it brought together many of the original students of Col Hobbs from the original Ipswich Aikijujutsu dojo he established back in 1983, when he was a Captain stationed at RAF Benwaters. This year's program would not have been possible without the assistance of the many seniors who helped with the teaching duties. A big thank you to each and everyone of you. 06-20-09 Due to scheduling conflicts our Dentokan annual international seminars have been reshuffled 06-15-09 On the 13th Sensei Hobbs took part in the 30 year anniversary of the establishment of Sensei Bill Stockey's Shoshinkan dojo in Quincy, IL. Other guest instructors included Sensei Mike Sadler and Sensei George Parulski. Sensei Hobbs taught two sessions on Karate Kumite, with emphasis on footwork, bodyturning, proper hip rotation for power generation, and specialized parrying techniques for quick response to an opponent's attack. 05-30-09 Today Scott Kays visited Sensei Hobbs for training and testing. Sensei Kays oversees his Azamikan Dojo in Frankfort, Indiana. The day was spent with Sensei Kays performing all of the Dentokan Shorin-Ryu Karate-Do kata, to include the weapons kata. Sensei Hobbs observed, evaluated, and corrected Scott's kata after each kata was performed. Scott performed exceptionally well, and at the end of the session was promoted to Yondan. Congratulations Scott! Also, for everyone's information, Sensei Kays' Azamikan Dojo has been added as a link on our Links Page. 05-09-09 Sensei Hobbs was recently featured in the Spanish martial arts magazine "Budoka". 05-04-09 Sensei Hobbs has returned from teaching the latest in the series of Dentokan Aikijujutsu instructor courses in the United States. The latest course took place at the Black Bear Traditional Martial Arts Center of Erik Johnstone and Mark Spear in Pawcatuck, Connecticut. Experienced Aikijujutsu teachers in attendance were Andy Bryant (Indiana), Erik Johnstone (Connecticut/Rhode Island), Dr. Michael Nemeth (Virginia), Robin Ramirez (California), Bill Henderson (California), and Mike Holmes (North Carolina). The course centered around the teaching of Shihan Gi, but also included instruction on the underlying principles contained within the formal kata, and a review of Shodan through Yondan Gi. Promotions were presented at the end of the course, with the most notable being Dr. Nemeth and Sensei Johnstone achieving Shihan-Godan. A hearty congratulations to Mike and Erik!
04-20-09 The Dentokan Hombu was recently visited by Lt Col Tony Willis. Sensei Willis is Anyu Shinjo's senior most student and representative in the United States. Sensei Shinjo's Okinawa Goju-Ryu Karate-Do Goykan is a traditional Goju-Ryu Karate group which follows the teachings of the late Eichi Miyazato. Sensei Willis and Sensei Hobbs are long time friends, and this again gave them several days to practice and exchange their ideas as related to traditional Goju-Ryu Karate. Sensei Willis was a tremendous help to Sensei Hobbs in converting his modified Toguchi method of Goju-Ryu kata to that taught by Sensei Miyazato. 03-26-09 Video clips of the Goju-Ryu Karate kata have been added to the kata portion of this website. These clips were originally recorded at Queen's University, Belfast, Northern Ireland in the 1990s. At that time Hobbs Sensei practiced and taught a modified version of the Toguchi method of Goju-Ryu Karate. Since that time we have shifted to the Miyazato method of Goju-Ryu Karate. While the embusen (patterns) are essentially the same, there are nuance differences. 03-25-09 Many of you have probably noticed a lot of activity occuring on the Dentokan Hombu website. This is largely due to the efforts of our new Webmaster, Per Hagstrom. Per lives in the United States, but was born and raised in Sweden. He immigrated to the United States approximately ten years ago. Per is a direct student of Hobbs Sensei, who he trains regularly with in O'Fallon, Illinois. 03-18-09 Ben Haryo, our Dentokan Representative in Indonesia, just recently hosted Dr. Andy Roosen for a visit. As most of you know Andy is the President of the Solomon Islands Dentokan National Federation and the Director of Dentokan Operations in Oceania. Ben was kind enough to have written an article about Andy's visit. Please click here: andy_visit.doc 03-15-09 Col Hobbs has been appointed the Director of the World Bodyguard & Security Advisor Confederation (WBSAC), U.S.A. Branch. 03-07-09 Col Hobbs has been awarded the "Intercontinental Operative Protection Medal" by the World Bodyguard & Security Advisor Confederation in recognition of his contributions to the security management community. 01-27-09 The first ever instructors only Dentokan Aikijujutsu course was held on the grounds of the Gedatsu Church (Senkakukai Dojo) in Sacramento, California. It was a three day course (24-26 January 2009). The course consisted of the in depth study and practice of Shodan Gi, Nidan Gi, Sandan Gi, and Yondan Gi. At the conclusion of the course various Dan grades were issued based upon experience, technical expertise, and fighting spirit. Those in attendance (in no particular order) were Dr. Michael P. Nemeth from Virginia, Erik A. Johnstone from Connecticut/Rhode Island, Robin Ramirez from southern California, Brandon Ream from southern California, Bill Henderson from northern California, and Phoenix Torres from northern California. Sensei Bill Henderson was the course organizer and did a fantastic job. The next instructors course for this core group will be held in Connecticut/Rhode Island in the late spring or early summer. Sensei Erik Johnstone will be hosting that event, with details to follow. 01-08-09 Welcome back Mike Jones Sensei to the Dentokan! 01-07-09 Col Hobbs has resigned from the International Bodyguard Association (IBA). 12-21-08 Col Hobbs has been awarded the "Euro-American Cross for Security Training" by the Euro-American Technical Center for Security Trianing in recognition of his contributions to the field of security training. 12-11-08 Dr. Michael P. Nemeth, who is a very long time friend of Hobbs Sensei, visited the Dentokan Hombu for several days. Dr. Nemeth and Hobbs Sensei spent many hours working the higher levels of Dentokan Jujutsu and Goju-Ryu Karate. Andy Bryant and Scott Kays, from Indianapolis, Indiana were also here this past weekend for Jujutsu training. Scott also spent some time having his Shorin-Ryu Karate kata reviewed by Hobbs Sensei. It was noted that Scott has very significantly improved from his last visit. Andy performed up to his usual high standard as well. All are already looking forward to the next training session. 11-24-08 Tony Willis recently visited the Dentokan Hombu for several days. Willis Sensei, as most of you know, is the US Representative for Shinjo Anyu Hanshi's Okinawa Goju-Ryu Karate-Do Goyukan. Shinjo Sensei was a direct student of Miyazato Eichi, at the Jundokan, for many years. Willis Sensei has been a tremendous help to us as we've converted our Goju-Ryu kata from the Toguchi Sensei method to that of Miyazato Sensei. A big thank you to Willis Sensei! We're already looking forward to his next visit. 11-16-08 Please visit www.alljapanbudofederation.com 10-12-08 Col Hobbs spent the weekend of 3 & 4 October teaching another Aikijutsu/Jujutsu course at the Bakersfield Budokan dojo of Robin Ramirez and Brandon Ream. It was a long, but fruitful weekend as we had the opportunity to work on the underlying principles and concepts of our unique Aikijutsu/Jujutsu style. Bill Henderson of Folsom, California was also in attendance. Bill, Robin, and Brandon are our three Dentokan Aikijutsu/Jujutsu stalwarts along the west coast of the United States. 10-01-08 Tony Hammersley has been appointed the Dentokan Representative for New Zealand. Tony is a Dentokan Aikijutsu/Jujutsu yudansha who received his training while living in England, as part of the large Dentokan Aikijutsu/Jujutsu contingent in the Ipswich area. Tony’s appointment was the result of a recommendation by Brian Rogers, Kaiden of Dentokan Aikijutsu/Jujutsu. Col Hobbs and Dr. Chan wholeheartedly concurred. Dr. Andy Roosen, Director of Dentokan Operations in Oceania, will guide Tony in his duties. 09-30-08 Dr. Andy Roosen, the Dentokan National President for the Solomon Islands, has been appointed the Director of Dentokan Operations in Oceania. Oceania includes the following Australia, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, Timor-Leste, Fiji, Solomon Islands, French Polynesia, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Samoa, Guam, Federated States of Micronesia, Tonga, Kiribati, Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, Marshall Islands, Palau, Wallis and Futuna, Cook Islands, Tuvalu, Nauru, Norfolk Island, Niue, Tokelau, and Pitcairn Islands. This is a huge responsibility, but both Col Hobbs and Dr. Chan know Andy is up to the challenge. 08-20-08 There
has been a slight scheduling change to the next several
Sekai Dentokan Annual Seminars & Conferences. Please see
below: 08-08-08 This past weekend Hobbs Sensei taught a two-day Dentokan Aikijujutsu seminar at the Black Bear Traditional Martial Arts Center (BBTMAC), Pawcatuck, Connecticut. Mark Spear and Erik Johnstone were wonderful hosts, and their hospitality is very much appreciated. The course itself went wonderfully well with those in attendance having the opportunity to go through both Shodan and Nidan Gi. Additionally, they were given glimces of Sandan, Shihan, and Kaiden Gi. Hobbs Sensei was ably assisted by Dr. Michael P. Nemeth of NASA fame, who is a Sandan in Dentokan Aikijujutsu as well as being a Shichidan-Kyoshi in Shorin-Ryu Karate. The Aikido and Daito-Ryu Aikijujutsu background of Johnstone Sensei made him a quick study, which culminated in the BBTMAC being accepted as a Dentokan member dojo. We were also fortunate to have the opportunity of meeting and training with Adrian Smith Sensei who has an extensive background in Aikido. He, like Johnstone Sensei, took to Dentokan Aikijujutsu like a duck to water. Thus, it is with great pleasure that we announce Smith Sensei as a full fledge member of the Dentokan. Discussions have already begun regarding future Dentokan seminars at the BBTMAC, as well as planned visits of Johnstone Sensei to train with Hobbs Sensei in O'Fallon. 07-19-08 Andy Bryant and Scott Kays visited the Hombu for over five hours of training in Shorin-Ryu Karate, Goju-Ryu Karate, Aiki Jujutsu, and Iaijutsu. The training went exceptionally well, and both Andy and Scott are actively teaching Dentokan Martial Arts in their respective dojos. While Andy's dojo has been a Dentokan member for some time, Scott's dojo "officially" affiliated just recently. We offer our thanks to these two fine martial artists for representing the Dentokan in Indiana. 07-12-08 The Black Bear Traditional Martial Arts Center (BBTMAC) / Shindokan Dojo is hosting Hobbs Sensei on August 2 & 3 (Saturday & Sunday) for a Dentokan Aiki Jujutsu course. The BBTMAC/Shindokan Dojo is located at 163 South Broad Street (Route 1), Pawcatuck, Conneticut. For complete details please contact Johnstone Sensei at eajohnstone@cox.net as soon as possible. There will be other senior Dentokan instructors present as well, with one of the most notable being Dr. Michael P. Nemeth. 07-02-08 Dentokan Goju-Ryu Karate kata changes: Following recent discussions with the Dentokan senior Goju-Ryu Karate practitioners in Alanya, it's been agreed that we will shift our Goju-Ryu kata practice and teachings to bring them more in alignment with the kata as practiced within the World Karate Federation (WKF). This decision was made because many Dentokan Karateka compete internationally utilizing the Goju-Ryu Shitei and Tokui kata as outlined in the WKF competition rules and regulations. It was becoming an undue burden on these fine athletes, to require them to learn two slightly different kata sets for competition and promotions. There will be no changes in the Shorin-Ryu Karate kata as taught within the Dentokan. 07-01-08 This year's annual seminar and conference in Alanya, Turkey was absolutely outstanding. Safak Sensei has set the standard for everyone else to meet in the future. The accommodations and training area at the Blue Star Hotel were wonderful. Attendees included Dentokan members from England, Italy, Liechtenstein, Norway, Slovenia, the Solomon Islands, Turkey, and the United States. There were a number of highlights this year. Among them the attendance by Dr. Nasrollah Kakavand from Iran. Following discussions and the completion of training, Dr. Kakavand was established as the Dentokan National President for Iran. We also had some senior gradings as follows: Lloyd Allum (Shichidan, Kokamishin-Ryu Jujutsu), Brian Rogers (Rokudan, Kokamishin-Ryu Jujutsu), Andy Roosen (Godan, Shorin-Ryu Karate), David Cook (Yondan, Kokamishin-Ryu Jujutsu), and Alison Nyoni (Yondan, Shorin-Ryu Karate). We're all looking forward to next year's annual seminar and conference in Northampton, England. 05-27-08 Bill Henderson from Folsom, California visited the Hombu this past Memorial Day weekend for some extensive, and intense, Jujutsu training. Bill and Sensei Hobbs trained nine-plus hours together over two days. Anyone familiar with Dentokan Jujutsu knows that's an accomplishment in itself. Bill, who has an Aikido background, performed exceptionally well. He now heads a Dentokan Jujutsu study group in the Sacramento area. We look forward to many more training sessions with Bill and his group. 04-22-08 Andy Bryant and Scott Kays visited Hobbs Sensei this past weekend. Training consisted of approximately four hours of Jujutsu and Karate training. Both Andy and Scott are doing exceptionally well, and marked improvement was noted in their technique. Andy operates a Dentokan dojo in Indianapolis, and Scott operates a Dentokan dojo in Frankfort, Indiana. Future visits are already planned. 04-21-08 Erik Johnstone, upon the recommendation of Robin Ramirez, has become a part of our Dentokan family. Johnstone Sensei is very well versed in the sword, and has substantial experience in Aikijutsu/Aikido as well. He resides in Rhode Island, and there are plans to conduct a seminar at his soon to open dojo in Connecticut. Plans are to have the seminar the first week in August. Details to follow as we get closer to the date. 04-20-08 Donnie Hayhurst, an old Seidokan friend of Hobbs Sensei, has become a part of our Dentokan family. Hayhurst Sensei is a multi-talented martial artist who will bring much to the Dentokan. His contact information can be found on the Shihans page. 04-18-08 We now have our first Dentokan dojo in Botswana (Southern Africa). The dojo is run by Gondo Gondo, a student of Douglas Chivandire. Gondo is now considered our Country Representative for Botswana, under the guidance of Douglas Chivandre of Zimbabwe, as his direct teacher. With the addition of Gondo's dojo, we now have African dojos in Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa. 01-03-08 9th Annual Dentokan Seminar & Conference, 12-15 June 2008, Blue Star Hotel, Alanya, Turkiye / Turkey: Click Here for more info 11-06-07 The 9th Annual Dentokan Seminar & Conference location has changed from Izmir, Turkey to Alanya, Turkey. Alanya is a very nice tourist/resort area of Turkey, by the sea. This is definitely one of those times to plan a vacation along with the scheduled training. Safak Sensei is working hard to make this another wonderful event. The event is planned for 12-15 June 2008. Details will be forthcoming soon, to include resort information. 10-24-07 It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Seiki Toma, Headmaster of the Okinawa Shorin-Ryu Karate-Do Seidokan Kyokai. Sensei Toma was a teacher and close friend of Seikichi Odo. He will be missed. 10-08-07 Sensei Hobbs was hosted by Robin Ramirez and Brandon Ream, Co-Directors of the Bakersfield Budokan, to teach Dentokan Goju-Ryu Karate-Do and Dentokan Jujutsu/Aikijutsu, from 26 Sep 07 to 29 Sep 07. Rev Miguel Jurna traveled from Northern California to take part in the event. The several days of instruction were culminated with a full-day Aikijutsu seminar on Saturday, with a large number of participants coming from out of town. Robin and Brandon did a super job in organizing the event, and they're new expansive dojo is really something to see. It's a very traditional dojo where a wide variety of traditional Japanese and Okinawan martial arts are taught. It really sets the standard for all of us. 07-23-07 Robin Ramirez and Brandon Ream, from the Bakersfield Budokan, Bakersfield, California visited the Dentokan Hombu for several days of training. Subjects covered included Shorin-Ryu Karate, Goju-Ryu Karate, and Aiki Jujutsu. There was also some mutual exchange of Iaido/Iaijutsu techniques. Finally, discussions were held regarding the upcoming September 25-30 visit of Sensei Hobbs to Bakersfield. It was a fun time for all, especially the six straight hours of Aiki Jujutsu on Saturday. 06-18-07 The Dentokan annual international seminar
and conference schedule is as follows: 06-15-07 Our annual Dentokan seminar held in Athens,
Greece was a hugh success. Eleven nationalities were
represented at this year's event, and this is a good
indication of how the Dentokan is spreading throughout the
world. A special thanks to Nikos Theodorou for his
outstanding organizational ability in putting this year's
event together. Special thanks also to all the seniors who
helped with the teaching duties. It would have been really
tough to have done it without your help. 06-01-07 This spring the Dentokan Hombu has had multiple visits from Brandon Ream of the Bakersfield Budokan, and Andy Bryant of the Indianapolis Budokan. Brandon concentrated on both Shorin-Ryu and Goju-Ryu Karate. Andy concentrated on Dentokan Jujutsu. Much was accomplished, and future visits are planned. 03-05-07 The
plans for the Dentokan Annual International Conference &
Seminar are complete. The seminar events will be held at
the Olympic Stadium of Athens, which is a short commute by
train from the city center, and the President Hotel Events
Hall, Athens. A brief outline of the seminar schedule
follows: 02-02-07 Sensei Mike Jones, a Dentokan member for approximately six years, has formed his own Kai. It is called Gokenkai International and it can be found on our links page. This move was accomplished with the approval and support of Col Hobbs. We wish Mike the very best in his new endeavors and fully expect to continue our fine working relationship. 12-05-06 Brandon Ream from the Bakersfield Budokan, Bakersfield, CA recently visited and trained at the Dentokan Hombu for several days. The training included Shorinryu Karate, Gojuryu Karate, Okinawa Kobujutsu, and Dentokan Jujutsu. It was also during Brandon's visit that the Bakersfield Budokan became a full member dojo of the Dentokan. Note: The Bakersfield Budokan is jointly directed by Brandon and Robin Ramirez, another long time friend of Sensei Hobbs. 10-03-06 Sensei Hobbs just returned from another absolutely wonderful visit to Turkiye. This time he was in Alanya, along the Mediterranean Sea, in the southwestern part of the country. The visit was sponsored by Adnan Safak Yuksel, a long time student of Sensei Hobbs, who is a very accomplished teacher of Karate (both Shorin-Ryu and Goju-Ryu), Kobudo/Kobujutsu, Jujutsu, and Iaijutsu. As always Sensei Hobbs was very impressed with the high degree of technical expertise demonstrated by our Turkish Dentokan members. It is a testiment to the hard work of Sensei Yuksel. The visit included a day of one-on-one work with Safak on Goju-Ryu Karate bunkai and Kaiden waza of Dentokan Jujutsu. The culmination of the visit included seminars on Dentokan Jujutsu and Dento-Shoshin-Ryu Iaijutsu. All the participants thoroughly enjoyed the course and plans have already begun for a return visit. A big thanks to Safak, his family, students, and friends for all there hard work in putting this visit together. As always the hospitality was the very best. 07-21-06 The Indianapolis Budokan dojo, under the guidance of Sensei Andy Bryant, has become a part of the Dentokan family. Andy and his students are excellent sword practitioners and are a welcome addition to our family. Andy and his students will be studying both Iaijutsu and Jujutsu with us. For information on the Indianapolis Budokan go to their website: www.indybudokan.com 07-18-06 Sensei Hobbs taught jujutsu and iaijutsu at the Indianapolis Budokan this past weekend. It was a most enjoyable event, with opportuntities to visit old friends and make new ones. A big thank you to Andy Bryant for organizing the event 06-26-06 The weekend of 23-24 June Sensei Hobbs conducted a Karate and Jujutsu course at the Bakersfield Budokan in Bakersfield, California. The course went very well and everyone had an enjoyable time. Sensei Hobbs was especially happy to see old friends like Juan Carbajal and Robin Ramirez. Brandon Ream was a gracious host and Sensei Hobbs extends his sincere thanks to everyone for a very pleasant weekend. 4-26-06 Thanks to Dr. Chan's efforts in South Africa, Mr. Henry Paulse has started a Dentokan affiliated kobudo/Kobujutsu group. It's officially called the South African Dentokan Kobujutsu Association. We look forward to working with Sensei Paulse. 4-16-06 Following the Lusaka event Col Hobbs and Dr. Chan traveled to Harare, Zimbabwe and conducted a three-day course there. Thanks to the organizational efforts of Godwin Murambiwa, the Harare event was also an outstanding success. The hospitality shown during our visit to Zimbabwe was most excellent. Fradson Shavi's leadership, assisted by the other seniors there, has built a strong Dentokan following in Zimbabwe and is highly commendable. Testing was held the last day of the course. Senior Shorinryu Karate promotions awarded were as follows: Fradson Shavi - Rokudan & Kyoshi, Douglas Chivandire - Godan & Renshi, Paul Danisa - Godan & Renshi, and Angelo Hlatywayo - Godan & Renshi. 4-16-06 The 7th Annual Dentokan International Conference & Seminar held in Lusaka, Zambia was a tremendous success. Col Hobbs wishes to thank Mr. Bonar Noble for his kind hospitality and sponsorship, as well as Mr. Lytton Zulu for all of his organizational efforts which resulted in the event coming off without a single misstep. Many thanks must also go out to Dr. Stephen Chan, Chris Spencer-Hicks, and Martin Rice for assisting with the teaching duties during the five-day course. We also wish to convey a special thanks to Judy Makukisi for arranging the VIP treatment at the airport. It was very much appreciated. All participants worked extremely hard and deserve a hearty well done. Testing was held the last day of the course. Senior Shorinryu Karate promotions awarded were as follows: Mr. Bonar Noble - Hachidan & Hanshi, Raymond Mbazima - Shichidan & Kyoshi, and Lytton Zulu - Yondan & Shihan. Mr. Noble was also appointed the Official Dentokan Representative for Zambia. 3-21-06 "Sensei Hobbs just completed a very successful three day (17-19 March 2006) seminar at Rudy Crosswell's Arizona Budokan dojo in Phoenix, Arizona. Topics covered included Jujutsu, Kobudo/Kobujutsu, and Karate Kata and associated Bunkai. Sensei Hobbs and Sensei Crosswell are old friends and were both members of Shogo Kuniba's Seishinkai back in the 1960's and 70's. Sensei Crosswell is one of the most knowledgeable and respected Shito-Ryu and Kobudo teachers in the world. Participants came from as far away as Philadelphia. Sensei Hobbs enjoyed the opportunity of training with old and new friends." 12-28-05 We are very pleased to announce that Trisno Kuswanto (Khu Chen Yong) of Jakarta, Indonesia has graciously accepted the position of Dentokan Special Advisor for the Chinese-Indonesian Martial Art of Kuntao (Kung Fu). Sifu Kuswanto is a respected and accomplished teacher of his family's Kuntao style known as "Kuntao Macan" (Tiger Kuntao). Thank you Sifu Kuswanto for sharing your knowledge of the historical, philosophical, and technical aspects of Chinese-Indonesian Kuntao. Welcome to our worldwide Dentokan family. 12-24-05 The 7th Annual Dentokan International Conference & Seminar is in the final planning stages. This year's event is being held at the Judo Hall in Lusaka, Zambia, 1-5 April 2006. The primary course coordinator is Lytton K. Zulu who can be contacted at lkzulu@cropserve.co.zm should additional information be needed. The course outline is as follows: Day 1 - Shorinryu Karate kata review up to Yondan Day 2 - Gojuryu Karate kata review up to Shodan Day 3 - Dentokan Jujutsu/Aikijutsu review up to Nidan Day 4 - Kobujutsu/Bojutsu kata review and teaching of new bo kata Day 5 - Open (Review and/or teach new material, at the discretion of Hobbs Sensei) There are also some tourist events planned that should be great fun for all. A big thanks to Lytton and all the other Dentokan seniors who have worked so hard to bring this event together. 12-05-05 From our very active brothers and sisters in Indonesia: On Friday, December 2nd 2005, the Goshinbudo Jujutsu Indonesia Club is proud to announce that Mr. Khu Chen Yong (Trisno Kuswanto) has been appointed as Club President. He has received promotion to 4th Kyu (Blue Belt) from Mr. Taman (JKF-Wadokai Nanadan Renshi) and 3rd Kyu (Purple Belt) in Dentokan Jujutsu under Ben Haryo. He is now working towards achieving black belts in both arts. Mr. Khu Chen Yong is also Kuntao (Kung Fu) stylist from his family line. He is 3rd Generation Chinese-Indonesian living in Jakarta, Indonesia. His family descended from Fuijan, South China, and settled in Indonesia in the 50s. Goshinbudo Jujutsu Indonesia Club is the only representative club of Dentokan Jujutsu in Indonesia and Southeast Asia. Ben Haryo, the Founder and Chief Instructor of this club, is the first Dentokan Jujutsu black belt in Indonesia. Mr. Khu Chen Yong promised that within his tenure he will work towards achieving government recognition for Jujutsu. Even though Jujutsu in Indonesia has a long history (oldest recorded Jujutsu dojo was a located in Java in 1908, founded by a Mr. Watanabe Atsuki), to this day the Indonesian Government has not recognized Jujutsu as a martial art. Government recognitions have been granted to other foreign arts such as Judo in the 50s, Karate and Aikido in the 70s, Tae Kwon Do in the 80s, and Wushu in the 90s. Mr. Khu Chen Yong has previously been successful in making Dentokan Jujutsu an official extracurricular activity in Universitas Indonusa Esa Unggul, a prestigious private University in Jakarta. 08-07-05 Mark and Peter Braggins were promoted to Yondan & Shihan in Dentokan Shorin-Ryu Karate at the recent international conference/seminar in Turkey. A hearty congratulations to the both of them! 07-31-05 Our Sixth Annual International Conference & Seminar in Izmir, Turkiye was a tremendous success. Adnan Safak Yuksel Sensei's organization made for a virtually flawless event. The hospitality of the Turkish people was absolutely outstanding. Many thanks to the Izmir Police Academy Commandant for allowing us to use the Academy's facilities for this year's event. Future plans were discussed and finalized for next year's conference/seminar in Africa, 2007 in Greece, and 2008 again in Turkiye. Of particular note was the decision to include an international Dentokan tournament as part of our activities during the 2008 event. Initially we plan to include a tournament, as part of our conference activities, every other year. More information to follow on this important step forward. Finally, it should be noted that Adnan Safak Yuksel was promoted to Shichidan in Karate and Rokudan in Jujutsu. He was also awarded the title of Kyoshi. 02-27-05 Dentokan Hombu promotions of note for the month of February include Nigel Goodier to Shichidan & Kaiden in Aikijutsu/Jujutsu. Promotion occurred at the end of Nigel's recent visit from England. Also of note was SSgt Jason Gramling's promotion to Yondan-Shihan in Shorinryu Karate-Do. Jason is now stationed at Scott Air Force Base and regularly trains under the guidance of Sensei Hobbs. Congratulations to both Nigel and Jason. 01-21-05 Welcome to Ben Haryo and his Goshin Budo Club members in Indonesia. Ben and his students are now a part of the Dentokan family. Ben's website can be found on our Links page. 01-16-05 Plans are being finalized for the 2005 International Dentokan Course. This year's course is scheduled for July 22-25 in Izmir, Turkiye/Turkey. The rough outline for the course is Karate on the 22nd, Jujutsu on the 23rd, Iaijutsu on the 24th, and testing on the 25th. Adnan Safak Yuksel is the course organizer this year and he is working on the standard details like hotels, restaurants, ground transportation, sightseeing, etc. Safak's contact information is available on the Shihans' page. For your additional information, the 2006 International Dentokan Course is scheduled for Lusaka, Zambia, and it looks like it just might be Athens, Greece in 2007. |
Photo Credit: Noel Shelly |
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