kicking and punching over in San Diego, California as they take part in the Third Miyagi Chojun Memorial Arts Festival from August 12 to 16.

At least 20 countries are expected to be at the event sponsored by the International Okinawan Goju-ryu Karate-Do Federation (IOGKF) which will feature seminars on various aspects of Goju Ryu, Shotokan and Shito Ryu kata and fighting techniques. Some of the world's finest masters are set to conduct these seminars, including Shotokan Master Osama Ozawa, Itosu-Kai Master Fumio Demura and former All Japan Kumite champion Sensei Kazuo Terauchi.

"This is one of the biggest traditional tournaments on the west coast,'' said Smith, who heads the local IOGKF and will be a judge at the tournament.

"Unlike the open tournaments where anyone can enter, this one insists that everyone wear white and does not allow any eclectic styles (non-traditional).'' The first three days have participants engaging in a Gasshuku (training camp) for martial arts while the festival concludes on the final two days with the traditional karate tournament and Masters demonstrations. Bean is a former winner at the tournament, as he fought his way to first place in Kumite (sparring) during the 1989 festival, and will be out to do so this year in the Kata as well as Kumite.

"He (Bean) is hoping to win again,'' said Smith of his prize pupil. "And hopefully we'll bring back a broader knowledge of styles and karate systems.'' Also competing will be Zenji Ingham, with his parents Sensei Skipper Ingham and wife Kristina Ingham also making the trip.

Skipper Ingham, with the blessing of Smith, should also be forwarding a proposal to IOGKF head Morio Higaonna regarding the possibility of bringing the 1994 World Championships to Bermuda. The event usually draws participants from up to 36 countries and Smith said that it could be a tremendous boost for the sport on the island if accepted.

SCHOOL IS IN SESSION -- Local karate instructor Bob Smith (right) fires a kick at student Michael Bean during training for the Miyagi Chojun Memorial Arts Festival.