In his efforts to embody and promote the true spirit of Karate-Do, Masatoshi Nakayama (1913- 1987) created a 2-3 year full time instructor’s program. Originally the intention of this program was to send qualified instructors throughout the world to ensure that the true essence of Karate was being passed along. Sensei Nakayama certainly succeeded in this ambitious undertaking, as the first graduates of the late 50′s and early 60′s have spread Karate to every corner of the globe. In the 50 year history of the instructors course that Sensei Nakyama established, the Japan Karate Association has graduated just over 100 people.
As is the case in so many things the Japan Karate Association (JKA) has splintered and eroded over time. The untimely death of Sensei Nakayama in 1987 created a ripple effect that was felt throughout the world of Karate. Many instuctors left the JKA and as a result many new genuine international Karate organizations were established. Many of these organizations use the instructor’s program that was established by the JKA and Sensei Nakayama in 1957, as a model.
The World Traditional Karate Organization (WTKO) is headed by some of the most respected and influential instructors in the world of Karate. Sensei John Mullin 7th Dan (Executive Chairman) along with Sensei Richard Amos 6th Dan (Chief Instructor) are the pillars of the WTKO. Sensei Richard Amos lived in Japan for nearly 10 years and is the 2nd non-Japanese to complete the JKA instructors program. Using his invaluable experience as a template, Sensei Amos has created and oversees the WTKO instructors program.
There are many “instructors” throughout the world that take on the responsibility of developing students. Although some of these “instructors” are passing along the correct technique and spirit of Karate to others, there are many more that are not. The severe training and commitment required to complete any legitimate instructors program regardless of the organization, will limit the number of participants. For those that are willing expose themselves to the hardships of the instructors program, their Karate along with their students will most surely excel.
In the subsequent three entries to Watashi no Karate Michi, I will post my Kenshusei reports. At the WTKO 2009 Summer Camp in New York City, the theme of these reports were assigned to myself by Sensei Richard Amos. These reports are one of the requirements and are a prerequisite for completion of the WTKO instructors program.
Doryoku,
Scott
