|
 Biography
Mary
Ann began studying martial arts in 1990 for the physical exercise and found
Uechi Ryu in 1998, but it has
since blossomed into a lifestyle. Starting out, she looked to getting a black
belt as the ultimate that could be attained.
As she got closer to that goal, Mary Ann realized that, the more she
knew, the more she had to learn and that achieving a black belt is only the
beginning. She has many interests
and has been blessed to have many experiences. Mary Ann counts her study of
Uechi Ryu among those blessings. Uechi karate has shown her the importance of
personal strength and balance. It
has also given her the focus to keep balance and discipline in her life.
Mary Ann is married and works in management in the sales area of heavy
machinery. She describes herself as a confident, strong woman who is not afraid
to take appropriate risks to live a fulfilled life. Joining this historical
venture to Okinawa
will only add to the richness of her life experiences.
Contact
Me
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Personal
Information
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Current occupation or
profession:
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Management/Sales
at a Caterpillar Dealership (Heavy Machinery)
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Age:
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31
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Marital status:
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Single
with 2 cats
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Hobbies, special
interests, and skills:
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Other
than Uechi Ryu, I enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain
biking, and snowboarding. I have participated in numerous self-defense
firearms classes and activities. I
practice yoga and had previously taught yoga.
I also knit.
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Karate Information
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Current rank:
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Shodan
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Total years of study:
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6
years
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Current style:
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Uechi
Ryu/Shohei Ryu
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Current dojo and
location:
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Greensburg
Uechi Karate,
Greensburg
,
PA
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Current instructor:
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Dr.
Dan
Rinchuse, Renshi 6
Dan
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Association
affiliation:
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Okikukai,
Shohei Ryu
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Karate
and other martial arts training:
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Uechi Ryu 6 years of
study (1998-2004)
Jiu
Jitsu/ Submission
Fighting 2 years (2002-2004)
Kali (Filipino) 3 years
of study (1990 92, 97)
Kali and Western Boxing
seminars (1990)
Muay Thai 1 year of
study (1997)
Weapons training (Dagger)
1 year (1997)
Weapons Disarm training
1 year (1997)
John Saylor Grappling
Seminar (September 2002)
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Karate Promotions
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Rank
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Certificate Number
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Date of Issue
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Location of Promotion
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Ikkyu
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November
2000
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Greensburg
,
PA
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Shodan
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October 26, 2002
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Education
Background
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College/University:
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Seton
Hill
University,
Greenburg,
Pennsylvania
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Degree:
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a.
Bachelor of Arts, 1994,
Management-Human Resources/Information Systems
b.
Continuing education in
computer programming
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Questions:
At what age did you begin to study karate?
During college in 1990.
Why did you choose to study karate?
I chose to study martial arts at that time for self-defense and physical exercise. Although I still appreciate those things, also now enjoy the physiological aspects of my martial arts training.
Was there a reason why you chose to study Uechi Ryu?
After having some martial arts training in Kali, I found Uechi Ryu to be more suited to my physique and personal style.
What does this tour to Okinawa mean to you?
This tour to Okinawa is a fantastic opportunity to be involved in an event that will allow us to experience the universality of the art we study. It is an opportunity to experience the art in a fuller sense by being at its birthplace with those who not only study, but also live, the art; and those who strive to do so.
How has your martial arts study affected or changed your life?
Martial arts study has affected my life by helping me develop into a confident, strong woman who is not afraid to take appropriate risks to live a fulfilled life. It has helped me to maintain a balanced approach to all that I do.
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Womens Friendship Tour association, inc. Marguerite
Hess, 3576
N.E.Skyline Drive,
Jensen Beach,
Florida
34957
Telephone: (772)
334- 7731
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