Passing of Nobuyoshi Tamura Shihan.

The sad news of the passing of Tamura Shihan on July 9th flew around the world within hours. Tamura Shihan was not only one of the greatest of Aikido teachers and an international pioneer of Aikido but also the close friend and senior of Sugano Shihan. Many people will remember Tamura Sensei’s teaching at Summer School some years back and those who have attended seminars around the world will also remember much more and mourn his passing. My own special memories include Tamura Sensei and Mrs Tamura enjoying Aussie beer one hot day in a small bush pub outside Melbourne (with a loud background of country music), his passionate concern for the future and purity of Aikido expressed during IAF meetings over the years and of course the personal experience of actually training with him – which few people ever forget. His Aikido contribution has been enormous, like the number of people in many countries whose lives were enhanced by his presence. Sugano Shihan and Aiki Kai Australia send sincerest condolences to the family, friends, students and organisations under the care and leadership of Tamura Shihan.

On behalf of Sugano Shihan and Aiki Kai Australia

Tony Smibert
President and National Representative
Aiki Kai (Australia)

International Aikido Federation Senior Councillor