The Frank Smith Fighting Spirit Award is given to the competitor that has demonstrated karate in the true spirit of budo. It is not necessarily given to the best competitor but is also awarded for extrodinary displays of sportsmanship and spirit.
The winner is selected by the Nikkei Karate Committee. A trophy is awarded and the winner recognized at the subsequent years event. Winners need not be selected every year, only if a competitor displays the necessary qualifications.
The 2010 award goes to:
Black Belt Sandra Beutler
Sandra was a standout as not only a competitor but as a volunteer for the Nikkei Games. Her spirit and attitude is an inspiration to us all. She started karate as an adult 11 years ago and trains Shito Ryu under Ferdie Allas at SDJKC in San Diego.
"One of my greatest accomplishments in karate is being able to travel to Japan thru karate. I have been going to Japan every year for the last 10 years. I get to meet many senseis and learn about their different philosophies on karate. I have many lifetime friends now in Japan. I also compete under Yokosei sensei on his adult team at the All Tokyo Masters Championships for the last 6 years. After each trip I return refreshed and ready to share my experiences with the kids in my dojo"
Congratulations Sandra !
