Mr. Eddie Bethea / Kumite

Mr. Bethea and Mr. Steve Perry

ISKT / 1979

Mr. Eddie Bethea, Jr. began his Karate training in June, 1966, while stationed on the Island of Okinawa. His instructor, Hanshi Shugoro Nakazato is second in the Kobayashi Shorin-Ryu lineage to Hanshi Chosin Chibana. This encounter with Karate has been the catalyst for a most fulfilling life. Mr. Bethea has now been in Karate for over 36 years and vows to teach the traditions and philosophies until his death, because they have brought him to realize his self worth and the true value of human relations. He has won numerous championships with the major one being the 1983 USKA World Championship in Kumite. He has won the Division World Championship in Kumite twice and World Championship in Weapons once in 1987. Other significant events are five National Titles in Kumite through AAU and USAKF Karate.