Traditional Tameshiwari at Elora Gorge Karate Dojo

Tameshiwari event - On Dec. 14, students from the Gorge Karate Dojo participated in a traditional Tameshiwari (board breaking). Funds raised from this event went to the reconstruction of Shuri Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The castle is a National Landmark in Okinawa, Japan, which is the birthplace of Meibukan Karate.

Sadly, the castle was destroyed by fire on Oct. 31. This was an opportunity for students to raise funds to help others in need. It was also a great way to boost their confidence by demonstrating their abilities to break a board. Students of all ages were asked to raise money through pledges and then break a board using the traditional karate techniques that they have learned in class such as a punch, hammer fist, stomp or kick. Approximately $1,500 was raised for the cause.

“It was wonderful to see so many students and their families come out for this event,” officials said. “We are lucky to have such a great group of caring people. The excitement and positive energy of so many people young and old was contagious and turned out to be a great day in spite of the weather.”