Achievements/Contributions

• Early aikido pioneer, appointed “dai sempai” (main assistant instructor) by Ohtsu Sensei, first aikido shodan in Saskatoon.
• In 1990, was main demonstration uke during Kawahara Sensei’s first seminar.
• Received nikyu from Kawahara Shihan after just two years of training.
• Instrumental in furthering relationship between Akira Tohei Shihan and Kawahara Shihan.
• Hosted joint seminar (both shihan) in Regina in late 1990s, largest ever in Saskatchewan. Tohei Shihan subsequently invited Kawahara Shihan to Midwest Aikido Federation summer camp; many MAF students have since regularly attended CAF summer camps.
• Introduced aikido to many people around the world; taught in Barbados, other Caribbean dojos, Dubai, Romania and several other cities in Canada. This again led to more students learning from Kawahara Shihan.

Personal Philosophy

• Dedicated his life to the practice of aikido, found aikido can be a connecting force for all walks of people regardless of gender, racial or cultural differences.
• Learned from Kawahara Shihan that aikido is a pure martial art and by practicing the basic principles of “awase” (blending/harmonizing), aikido can be very effective.
• Also, by following Kawahara Shihan’s emphasis on “nagare” (flowing), one’s energy becomes very dynamic.
• Enjoyed teaching newcomers as much as experienced students, was approachable to all and provided instruction to anyone interested, would also do himself whatever he asked others to do.