Traditional Academy of Martial Arts (TAMA) will be kicking up their heels in Houston, Texas next week when they take part in the week long Miyagi Festival 1995 and IOGKF Pan American Karate Championships.

Featured during the festival will be special training conducted by Master Morio Higaonna, ninth dan and chairman of the IOGKF, who will be assisted by several senior instructors from the United States.

Also scheduled to make an appearance is former All Japan Goju-Ryu champion and trainer for the Peruvian All Style Karate team, Juichi Kokubo, who is to assist Higaonna with the Gasshuku technique.

Training will include basic techniques, kata (forms), kumite (sparring) and self defence.

An added attraction for participants this year is a business seminar being presented by Larry Doke, president of the fastest growing martial arts business consulting company in the US, and US Olympic Judo Federation vice president Gail Stonzemberg.

The IOGKF Pan American Championships will close the event.

Smith's travelling party includes Beverly Clarke, Marie Dixon, Daman Mussenden, Rosemarie DeShields, Chris Phillips and Michael Bean.

STRIKE A POSE -- Bobby Smith (kneeling) and his students display the form with which they hope to use to their advanatage during the Miyagi Festival and Pan-Am Karate Championships next week. Pictured (from left) are Beverley Clarke, Maria Dixon, Smith, Daman Mussenden, Rosemarie DeShields and Chris Phillips. Missing is Michael Bean.