On Saturday, October 21st 2023, Maryknoll Karate Club joyfully celebrated its 60th Anniversary with a day of practice, food and camaraderie in L.A.’s Little Tokyo.

Beginning in the morning at Maryknoll Dojo, over 90 participants made up of the club’s
members and friends from near and far were treated to a practice led by Maryknoll Karate
Club’s founder, Shihan John Teramoto. As the practice drew to a close, everyone’s spirits were
lifted even higher when they were joined by Ohshima Sensei. To top off the morning, the
participants were treated to a masterclass as Maryknoll Godans made their favorite kata for Sensei.

The group then made their way to the Japanese American Cultural Community Center where
they were joined by more friends and family for a banquet. With views of the gorgeous
Japanese garden, guests delighted in an afternoon of speeches, toasts, slideshows, and an
incredible meal catered by world renown chef, Katsu Michite. And yet, for all in attendance,
the most powerful impression left was that of the impact Ohshima Sensei has had in the lives of
all the Maryknoll Seniors.

That these Seniors are, to this day, dedicated to faithfully passing on Sensei’s work of not only
creating better karate practitioners, but better human beings, is surely the reason why
Maryknoll has continued to thrive for six decades. Happy Anniversary, Maryknoll, and here’s
to 60 more!