Martial Arts Awards and Press clippings

Nikkei Games Karate Committee

 Bushido Award  2013 Winner - Les Heri

The Bushido Award is given to the competitor that has demonstrated karate in the true spirit of budo. It is not necessarily given to the best competitor but is also awarded for extraordinary displays of sportsmanship and spirit.

The winner is selected by the Nikkei Karate Committee. A trophy is awarded and the winner recognized at the subsequent years event. Winners need not be selected every year, only if a competitor displays the necessary qualifications.

When we select an award winner, it is not about who the best fighter is or who does the best kata. It is primarily about demonstration of the martial spirit. It is about a competitor that exemplifies the true values of Bushido (warrior’s code). Proper attitude is paramount. The competitor is humble when winning and is respectful when losing. When fighting, the competitor exercises proper control and constantly demonstrates good sportsmanship.

When an entire dojo demonstrates these qualities, it is hard to pick one winner. The reason why the students have these qualities is because of an exemplary Sensei. It is because of this that this year’s recipient of the Nikkei Karate Bushido Award goes to instructor, Les Heri of the Shoreiha Goju Ryu Dojo.

Sensei Heri, a native of New York, was a student of Sensei Michael Robinson. Currently Sensei Heri is a 5th dan in Goju Ryu and has been studying martial arts since 1972. He is a former champion in kumite and kobudo in the Hollywood Nationals. He was also a former kata champion from the LA National Martial Arts Championship.  

Sensei Heri has been a strong supporter of the Nikkei Games karate tournament. He requires participation in the tournament by all his students. He also requires all students and parents to stay for the duration of the tournament, teaching the students respect and support for their fellow team members. This is commendable and further solidified our decision to present him with the award.

Sensei Heri currently has over 200 students at four different dojos and teaches primarily at his dojo in Torrance, CA