I have been a fan of the martial arts long before my training began. I started training in 1991 and was quickly introduced to tournaments and competition through my instructor and immediately loved it!

 

Over the years, I have been blessed and fortunate to attend and compete at some of the largest and most prestigious tournaments in the nation, but it wasn't until I attended Grand Master Ted Tabura's tournament in Laughlin Nevada, that I found the one I truly loved everything about. 

 

I'd come to know Grand Master Tabura very well over the years (20) and we became very close. We often had great conversations about the arts and of course his tournaments. Especially Laughlin.

 

When the late Grand Master Tabura decided to retire from throwing the Laughlin tournament, I was heartbroken, as it had become my favorite and most beloved stop on my tournament circuit. Never had I experienced such an event. Everything, from the time you arrive, shouted family, friends, love (not just for the arts, but for each other). It was truly the pinnacle of sharing aloha.

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I mustered the courage to ask Grand Master Ted Tabura if I could continue the legacy of the martial arts tournament in Laughlin, NV,  and he immediately said "Do it!" 

 

I hosted the first Yukan Na Samurai Tournament in 2011 with the support of The Sons of the Pacific and our extended family of instructors. We have been carrying on the tradition of hosting the Yukan Na Samurai Martial Arts Tournament. Continuing this Legacy brings us all together in the spirit of intense and positive competition within a Family environment. Our focus is, and has always been, to host unbiased, high level competition, while providing a positive family friendly environment centered in Love and Aloha.

 

I sincerely look forward to meeting and welcoming you into our Family at the next Yukan Na Samurai!