Today we launch a new segment in the blog where we profile some of the senseis and dojos that are regular customers here at ChokeSports. To kickstart our Dojo Profiles, we selected Sensei Kenneth Buffaloe's Kyokushin Karate dojo which is located in Warrenton, North Carolina, USA.
Sensei, how/when/where did you first get involved with martial arts?
I started training in Kyokushin Karate under Shihan Shigeru Oyama in the early 1970"s in Fairfield, CT, USA. I later became the official North Carolina representative of the I.K.O. KYOKUSHINKAIKAN organization in 1980. I am currently still the representative there under the leadership of Kancho Shokei Matsui and USA representative Shihan Katsuhito Gorai since 1997.
What is your current rank?
I am currently a Nidan (2nd degree black belt) registered Kyokushin Karate with the I.K.O. KYOKUSHINKAIKAN in Tokyo, Japan.
What keeps you motivated to train martial arts after all these years?
I am inspired by the hard work and dedication of my superiors and peers in the Kyokushin organization to offer the highest standard of Kyokushin training to my students here in North Carolina, USA. I have a true love and passion of Mas Oyama's Kyokushin Karate.
What advice would you give to someone who's just getting started?
I would advise a beginner student to be humble and patient when first starting Kyokushin training. Set smaller more attainable goals so that they do not become overwhelmed or discouraged by their training.
What are some of the school/student accomplishments you're most proud of and why?
My son/student, Christian Buffaloe started competing in international Kyokushin youth championships in 2008 and became the grand champion in his age group. He later became a 7 times youth champion with only the training he received from me in North Carolina. We were both featured in several movies and film documentaries telling our unique story of father/son and Teacher/student.
What is your goal with the school? Where would you like to see it in 10 years?
I want to see my school grow even larger to benefit the youth and people of North Carolina through disciplined Kyokushin training. I feel this is how I am making a positive contribution to society. I feel very genuine in that regard. I want to keep Kyokushin going in North Carolina and to pass down this legacy to my son/student Christian Buffaloe in the future.
You have been a customer of ChokeSports for many years. What made you choose our products and services?
ISAMI is the premier in Dogi (uniforms) and martial arts training equipment. I feel it is the best in the world. I have always received the highest customer service and best products from ChokeSports. I have also always endorsed and personally recommended your products to my students and colleagues over the years. I will continue to do so in the future.
Would you like to connect with Sensei Kenneth Buffaloe and know more about his Kyokushin Karate dojo in North Carolina?
You can call the dojo (252) 589-4281 to schedule a visit, like them on on Facebook, and while we are at it, don't forget to watch the many nice videos in their YouTube channel.
