Japanese martial artist Morio Higaonna comes to Moldova

Living martial arts legend from Japan Morio Higaonna, head of the International Okinawa Goju-ryu Karate-do Federation, arrived on October 9 in Moldova, on the occasion of the annual seminar for training of Goju-ryu fighters “Euro-Asian Gashuku 2012”. The event will gather disciples of this style from several European countries, from the USA and from Canada. “I came to demonstrate some fighting techniques, some kicks and defense techniques. There is little room for words. We must work a lot together in order to progress”, declared Morio Higaonna, who was met with flowers and applause by fans outside the hotel where he was lodged. This is Morio Higaonna’s third visit in Moldova. “I’ve been in Moldova in 2000 and 2005 and I met very kind people here. I know the fighters here work a lot to improve in this style”, he said. The Japanese master came at the invitation of the Okinawa Goju-ryu Karate-do Association in Moldova. “He is a living legend, an accomplished master, a bighearted man and an example for all those who practice martial arts”, said Victor Panasiuc, head of the Moldovan Association. “The International Federation has 58 members, half of which he hasn’t visited. Meanwhile, he visits us for the third time, which is a great joy for us”, added Victor Panasiuc. Morio Higaonna’s schedule in Moldova includes a series of events. On October 12, beginning at 7 OM, the International Martial Arts Festival will take place at the National Opera and Ballet Theater. The event is organized on the occasion of the master’s visit in Moldova and is under the patronage of Speaker Marian Lupu. Sensei Morio Higaonna will also have a training session with the National Army’s elite squad, the battalion for special missions “Fulger”. Among the special units that ensure public security and protect the state leaders there are many disciples of the Okinawa Goju-ryu Karate-do school. 73 year old Morio Higaonna has the highest possible qualification in Goju-ryu style, the 10 dan black belt.