The Closing Session and Demonstration Friday, the final day of Koshukai 2002, was a truly special experience for both students and observers. Attendees participated in the full four hours of instruction together at the Antioch High School Gymnasium. Then, after a short break, Uechi masters performed exciting demonstrations of their incredible martial art skills and strength.

The gathering concluded with a presentation by California Senator Tom Torlakson. The Senator, ever active in the area of youth fitness, presented each Okinawan Master a Senatorial certificate of appreciation for their decades of devotion to youth and family fitness and character building! The Okinawans were very surprised and touched by this demonstration of good will.

Tamishiwari   Rick Martin, former World Champion, demonstrated ashi kitei, leg conditioning, by breaking a hand-held bat with his legendary left round house kick. If you’ve ever seen his kick, you know why Master Martin captured the World Championship.

Kyoshi Dollar once again showed the benefits of Sanchin Kitei as the Okinawan Masters broke seven poles over his arms, abdomen, thighs and shins, demonstrating that a lifetime’s practice of Sanchin kata results in effective body armor.

Master Kiyohide Shinjo the Okinawan Superman, thrilled all by breaking three bats simultaneously with his shin. Those who watched closely saw the ferocious kick actually move all three Black Belts who were holding the bat rack! They may call Master Shinjo Superman in Okinawa, but for those of us that saw this demonstration, he’ll always be the Batman!

Go to the Closing Ceremony and Demonstration Photo Gallery