Promotion to Yondan (4th Dan) in Uechi-Ryū Karate

On Saturday, July 12th, I had the great honor of undergoing the Yondan (4th Dan) grading in Uechi-Ryū Karate-dō before an international examination board presided over by Sensei George Mattson, often referred to as the father of Uechi-Ryū in America.

The examination, which lasted over two hours, was conducted in accordance with the strict standards of the International Uechi-Ryū Karate Federation (IUKF). During the grading, I demonstrated the following:

• Hojo Undo
• Kyu Kumite and Dan Kumite (prearranged sparring for Kyu anks and black belts)
• All traditional kata of our style:
  • Sanchin
  • Kanshiwa
  • Kanshu
  • Seichin
  • Seisan
  • Seiryū
  • Kanchin
  • Sanseiryū

At the conclusion of the test, I also performed kumite and practical self-defense techniques.

Receiving the rank of Yondan is an incredible honor and a deeply meaningful milestone on the path of lifelong learning. Every promotion exam is an opportunity for introspection, refinement, and growth.

I will continue my training with humility, dedication, and unwavering respect for the martial way.

LIonek (莉雄念)