2009 IWKA Championship Tournament

CELEBITY BIOGRAPHIES

Kichiro Shimabuku

           Master Kichiro Shimabuku continues to maintain the Okinawian-style of martial arts called Isshinyru. Shimabuku inherited this honor from his father, Master Tatsuo Shimabuku. Tatsuo Shimabuku studied three versions of karate for over 32 years and created Isshinyru by selecting techniques from each. In 1956, Isshinyru became an official karate style. Prior to this, however, the father had taught locals in his Japanese village, Japanese Marines and later was awarded a contract to train American GIs.

           Isshinyru came to the shores of America when the GIs came home after World War II and after the occupation of Okinawa by American troops. Later, Tatsuo Shimabuku visited the United States, for the first time, to teach which is when, native Pittsburghers, William H. Duessel and Charles A. Wallance had the rare opportunity to study with him.

           As President of The International World Karate Association (IWKA) tournament , Master Kirchiro Shimabuku will oversee the biennial, IWKA  Championship Tournament to be held in Pittsburgh, PA June 18, 19 and 20, 2009. On Friday, June 19, he will conduct two seminars; one for brown and black belts and one for all ranks at the Hotel Hilton of Pittsburgh.

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