by Mark Cramer

Nov. 10, 2007, Akron, Ohio – Mr. Yamakura accompanied the GKK Sport Karatedo team to Akron, Ohio for the USA Karate Federation National Championships. After meeting with GKK team members, he met and conversed with dignitaries from both the USA Karate Federation and the USA-NKF. The competition day was long. Events began at 8:00 in the morning and ended after 8:00 in the evening, and Mr. Yamakura was present for the duration of the event.

The following competitors represented the GKK:

• Austin Jankowski – 9 Year Old Intermediate (Brown Belt); Kumite – Gold, Kata – Bronze
• Hunter Eades – 11 Year Old Intermediate (Brown Belt); Kumite – Gold, Kata – Silver
• Alec Vaughn – 11 Year Old Intermediate (Brown Belt); Kumite – Silver, Kata – Gold
• Mary Meade – 18 to 34 Advanced (Black Belt); Kumite – Gold, Kata – Gold, Kobudo – Gold