Uechi-ryu (way-chee-roo) is one of a
number of styles of Okinawan karate taught around the world today. Originally known as Pangai-noon
(pwan-gay-noon), Uechi-ryu has its roots in China where it was developed from kung fu
styles based on the movements of the Tiger, Dragon and Crane.
Pangai-noon
was studied in China at the turn-of-the-century by a young Okinawan named Kanbun Uechi.
Kanbun studied for many years under the tutelage of Shu Shi Wa, a famous Chinese Kung Fu
teacher, eventually becoming the first Okinawan to teach in China.
Kanbun later spent
many years teaching in Japan where he incorporated many of the aspects of Japanese Karate
into his system. In 1940, Kanbun's students renamed the style Uechi-ryu (meaning Uechi's
style) in his honor, and also bestowed upon him the title of Grandmaster.
Upon Kanbun's
death in 1948, his son Kanei assumed the role of Grandmaster. During the next decades
Kanei incorporated several innovations into the style, eventually creating one of the most
powerful styles practiced in the world today.
Among the first
Westerners to study Uechi-ryu was a young American serviceman named George Mattson, who
was stationed in Okinawa in the late 1950's. Mattson studied with Kanei for several years
before receiving his Black Belt. Carrying out the wishes of Kanei, Mattson returned to
Boston, Massachusetts and became the first Uechi-ryu teacher in North America. Sensei
Mattson is currently a Hanshi Kyudan (9th Degree Master).
Today, Uechi-ryu
Karate is headed by Kanmei Uechi, grandson of the style's founder, and is studied by
thousands of people throughout the world. Its form is admired for both its beauty and
gracefulness; its technique is highly respected as one of the most powerful and effective
styles of self-defense.
*photos
courtesy of George E. Mattson, with permission
