The event was conducted by Master Morio Higaonna who is the world's leading authority and historian of traditional Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate-Do.

He is in great demand throughout the world and travels frequently to conduct training for the more than 60,000 members of the prestigious International Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate-Do Federation.

The event in Niantic was hosted by the world famous Karate Instructor Sensei Chuck Merriman who is the chief instructor for the IOGKF in the United States.

His school and staff, according to the local participants, were very accommodating to all who were present.

According to sensei Bobby Smith, who was appointed by Master Higaonna to be the chief instructor for the IOGKF in Bermuda back in 1989, the popularity of his teacher Master Higaonna extends beyond "style'' boundaries as many students of various styles seek the benefit of his teachings.

This was evident as there was over 170 who registered for the event. Other than the Bermuda group there were representatives from Canada, the Dominican Republic and Japan.

The first day featured Sanchin training (special breathing and muscle tensing) and Kumite (sparring) drills. These drills were in the form of kata application, body conditioning exercises and katie (pushing-hands exercise).

The locals regarded the training to be both dynamic and informative and they felt that everyone left with a deeper understanding of the cultural treasure that is Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate-Do.

CLASSY KARATE COMPANY -- Top Bermuda karate instructors are seen with two top instructors during a trip to Connecticut recently. From left to right are: Sensei Chuck Merriman, Kristina Ingham, Skipper Ingham, Master Morio Higaonna and Sensei Bobby Smith.