Japanese Grandmaster Inspires local Karatekas seminar

The Citizen

18-05-2025

Japanese karate grandmaster Shihan Manabu Murakami recently inspired karatekas in the east of Pretoria with teachings and refined techniques during a seminar hosted by SKISA Kiritsu Karate.
The event marked the sixth consecutive year Kiritsu has brought the grandmaster to South Africa, reaffirming its commitment to top-tier martial arts training.
For 25 years, Murakami has shared his knowledge with South African karatekas, and this year's seminar was no exception.
Local practitioners absorbed not just physical techniques, like precise punches (tsuki), kicks (geri), and focus (kime), but also the philosophical essence of Shotokan, respect (Rei), discipline (Shugyo), perseverance (Osu), and self-improvement (Jiko no kojo).
Karate SA President Hanshi Sonny Pillay and Senseis Elmarie van Zyl and Michelle Singh also lent their support, fostering unity within the local martial arts community.
The seminar honoured dedicated students and highlighted the personal growth karate fosters.
Sensei Justine du Plooy emphasised that Kiritsu Karate offers more than classes; it's a platform for life-changing experiences.
'Parents seeking meaningful, character-building activities for their children will find Kiritsu Karate a valuable choice. Through world-class events like this, students gain exposure to authentic Japanese karate, boost skills and confidence, and become part of a supportive martial arts family.'
According to Sensei Du Plooy, the grandmaster's presence offered an unparalleled opportunity to deepen their understanding of this dynamic and powerful martial art form.
'The atmosphere at Kiritsu Karate was electric as karate practitioners from various local clubs eagerly absorbed the teachings and refined techniques under the direct guidance of such a highly respected figure in the world of Shotokan.'
Du Plooy said these teachings include discipline, respect, perseverance, and the pursuit of self-perfection, values that resonate deeply within the training at Kiritsu Karate.
He said the seminar fostered a strong sense of unity and shared purpose among participants, highlighting the vibrant and dedicated nature of the local martial arts fraternity.
He added that grandmaster Murakami imparted the crucial philosophical tenets of the art.
'These principles, deeply ingrained in the training philosophy of Kiritsu Karate, shape practitioners into disciplined and principled individuals both within and beyond the dojo.
'Their evident focus and unwavering spirit throughout the intensive training sessions truly embodied the core principles of martial arts – embracing challenges with determination and consistently striving for personal growth.'
Kiritsu Karate provides young students with exceptional opportunities to:
– Train with a World-Class Master: Learning directly from Grandmaster Murakami offers rare insights into traditional Shotokan.
– Experience authentic Japanese Karate: The seminar bridges cultural and martial roots with real-world application.
– Accelerate technical development: Focused instruction fast-tracks skill advancement and deeper understanding.
– Ignite motivation and passion: Training alongside peers and a grandmaster boosts drive and confidence.
– Build life skills: Through karate, students develop respect, focus, resilience, and self-discipline.
– Join a supportive community: Kiritsu fosters a family-like environment that nurtures friendships and personal growth.
Du Plooy emphasised that enrolling a child at Kiritsu Karate isn't just about learning self-defence; it's an investment in their holistic development.
He said this recent seminar served as a powerful reminder of the rich heritage and enduring value of traditional Japanese karate, leaving all participants feeling deeply motivated and inspired to continue their training with renewed vigour.
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