Special New Years Karate Kick Off
Conducted by Sensei David Blair
(Guest instructors in attendance)
Date: Sat. Dec. 30th
Time: 11:00 - 1:30 pm (2 & 1/2 hrs.) ish?
All ranks invited (must know Heian kata)
Fee: $20.00 (Senior BB instructors from their dojo excluded)
Place: DAC dojo
1842 W. 11th St. Unit D, Upland, CA. 91786
951 204-0341 (questions call Ty)
Bring a smile, warm heart, and your Karate spirit ~ Sensei David Blair
We are honored to have Sensei Dave Blair, longtime friend (40 years), conducting this special New Years Karate Kick-off at the DAC dojo. Come join us, even if for some it's has been a while since you've worn your gi - brush off those dust bunnies, train at your own pace and get a healthy head start for the New year ~ Sensei Ty Aponte.
Sensei David Blair former Chief instructor - Fontana Karate Club (Retired) He has Black Belt ranking in two different styles of Karate and has also studied weaponry & sword. He is an 8th degree Shotokan Master with 60 years of Karate experience.
He studied Karate in Japan for five years dedicating his life to the art. While in Japan he lived in the ZEN Temple and studied the mental aspects of the art. He has a B.S. degree from Cal Poly University in sociology and has his teaching credential. He has also studied Eastern Philosophy at Sophia University in Tokyo, Japan. He was a U.S. National team coach, a former Golden Glove Boxing Champion.
Sensei Blair was inducted to the Black Belt "Hall of Fame" in 2007. He brings to his classes a wealth of knowledge and experience. Sensei Blair was rated top "8" Karate player in the World Championships and was a highly successful competitor winning many tournaments.
Back in 2007 Sensei Blair contracted a debilitating virus called **Guillain-Barre syndrome, In the beginning he went from an almost fully paralyzed bedridden period and over time, to using a wheelchair, to using a walker, to using a cane and now he walks freely though still not without difficulty. He credits his recovery to Faith, Prayer, Strong conviction of a positive mental attitude (karate fighting spirit), support from his immediate & Karate families, friendships and most importantly from his lovely wife Sue.
**The Guillain-Barre syndrome, also known as polyradiculoneuritis, is a condition characterized by inflammation of several nerves, increasing muscle weakness in the arms and legs that may result in paralysis.
Sensei Blair’s Personal Karate Philosophy:
"Karate training and teaching is not something you do or learn but is who & what you are. For close to 60 years I have been committed to the code of Karate-do. My goal has been to take myself and my students to higher levels (in the dojo and in life): to reach national and international competition status. As a Sensei (coach) you must do what it takes to succeed. Success is built on time and self-discipline. Along with time you must believe in yourself and be undaunted by setbacks. Strive to develop your inner-self and character. Be a person with integrity and honor, resolved and loyal to the program only then will you reach new frontiers. My sincerest gratitude - is beyond words that I can express. To all my family, students and friends who’ve helped me through my difficult times with your kind thoughts, prayers, inspirations and support". Osu!
— David Blair (8th Dan Shotokan Karate-do)
