The chief instructor of the Japan Karate Association visited Timaru last week.
Shuseki Shihan (chief instructor) Ueki Masaaki was hosted by the Timaru Karate Club. During his stay, he provided instruction to the club students.
Timaru karate club sensei (instructor) Lizelle Pelser said the club was “honoured and privileged” to host Masaaki.
“It’s absolutely a proud moment for us to be hosting him in Timaru. We had planned this three years ago but had to cancel it because of Covid-19,” Pelser told news source Stuff.
The training sessions were attended by 80 people.
“We had a great turnout with members from all around the country taking part, and we had representation from India and Japan as well.
“It’s a technical seminar. With his wealth of knowledge, he will be teaching the juniors and the seniors,” Pelser said.
Japan Karate Association’s chief instructor for New Zealand, Karl Naoroji, who also attended the training sessions, said it was an “honour” to host the worldwide association’s top instructor in New Zealand.
“It’s a privilege to be taught by someone of his grade.”
Naoroji said some members were examined for karate belts during the visit, and others were examined to become instructors, examiners and judges.
Sensei Ueki Masaaki will head to Auckland for more training sessions this week.
