News

2011 Fukuda Sensei, Judan Celebration

September 26, 2011

Fukuda Sensei has been promoted to the rank of 10th degree black belt in the martial art of judo, the highest rank that can be achieved. This promotion is of historic significance, as she is the first woman to receive this rank in judo history and the first person in the United Stated to be promoted to this rank.

Fukuda Sensei who is now 98, started studying the art of judo in Japan in 1935 and is the only living student of Dr. Jigoro Kano, the founder of judo. Fukuda Sensei performed a judo demonstration in the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo. Fukuda Sensei traveled the world teaching judo and moved to the United States in the 1966 and became a U.S. citizen in 1972. In 1974, the first women’s judo camp in the United States was held with Fukuda Sensei as one of the main instructors and continues on annually as Keiko Fukuda Joshi Judo Camp. She also founded the Keiko Fukuda International Kata Championship in 1989. In 1990, the Japanese government awarded Fukuda Sensei the Order of the Sacred Treasure in recognition of her outstanding dedication to the advancement of Kodokan Joshi Judo. San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown officially declared August 19, 2001, “Keiko Fukuda Day” in honor of her 9th degree black belt promotion.

Celebration Dinner

A fundraiser dinner for Keiko Fukuda Joshi Judo Inc celebrating Fukuda Sensei's promotion to Judan is being held October 15, 2011, view invitation and RSVP. $100/person. Space is limited and RSVPs must be received by October 1, 2011. RSVP via email. Please include number of guests and names. Then please complete the RSVP form mail it and payment.

Commemorative Program

Many requests have been made for additional information for submissions to the commemorative program recognizing the achievements and service of Keiko Fukuda, Judan. Congratulatory messages and organization/business ads are being accepted.

All of the messages will be compiled into a commemorative program and distributed to guests during this special occasion for Sensei Keiko Fukuda. A copy of the commemorative program will also be sent to individuals who purchase space and will also be available for a nominal fee after the event.

Thank you very much for taking time to help to recognize the personal achievement and service of Fukuda Sensei.

$25.00 - 1/4 page (4 1/4" x 5 1/2")
$50.00 - 1/2 page (8 1/2" x 5 1/2")
$100.00 - Full page (8 1/2" x 11")
Other Donation (To be acknowledged in supporters section)

Please complete the sponsorship form with the details for your sponsorship and enclose a check. The deadline for submission is October 1, 2011.

If you have any additional questions, please contact us info@fukudajudocamp.org