Ito Dojo Kendo Members of Colorado participated in the All US Kendo Championship in Las Vegas, Nev. from July 3 to 5. The Colorado participants joined other members of the Southwestern Kendo Federation to present a strong presence at the national competition of Japanese samurai fencing.
In the lower divisions (less than black belt), Thor Metzinger of Denver did very well. He was eliminated in third round, but he virtually won that match as well. Looking at the following matches, he could have easily made it to semi-final at least. His effort was rewarded with fighting spirit award.
In the Senior Division, TK Gwin of Aurora lost at the first round. He had a good match with someone with nearly identical size and style. He says he had a very good time.
In the Men's Individual Competition, Brian Cooper of Denver was eliminated in the preliminary round robin. Perhaps nerves blocked him from a stronger performance, as he competed very well against this year's champion in the team round.
In the Team Competition, the Southwest Federation team of five memberslost against Greater NorthEast and Northern California in the preliminary round.The team was made up of Cho of Dallas, Michio Kajitani andAn Giang of Arkansas, and Ito Dojo Teacher Yasuo Ishikawa and Assistant Teacher Brian Cooper.
Team Coach Kajitani said, "Ishikawa sensei was our hero. He won both matches scaring the hell out of tough guys. He is the man."
Kajitani went on to say, "Brian did very well against Hatakeyama from GNE, who became this year's Men'ss individual champion, losing just one point. His kendo did not look anything less than Hatakeyama."
The Southwest Federation probably had the smallest group out of all regional federations, but the members helped each other a lot and had a great time. They also learned a lot and everyone realizes what they need to work on for the future.
Information contributed by Michio Kajitani