How old were you when you started kendo and why did you start?
I started Kendo at the age of 4 with my older brother. My parents wanted me to do Kendo.
What do you find attractive about kendo?
I love the etiquette and discipline of Kendo and the fact that it remains very much a martial art and not a sport.
Is there anyone in your family who plays kendo?
My older brother and I started Kendo together, but he quit in his early 20’s.
Have you participated in any world championships?
I was a member of Team USA at the 13th, 14th, 15th and 16 WKC.
What did you feel after participating in world championships?
I felt a great sense of accomplishment to become a member of Team USA. I always felt so many different emotions after each WKC. Relief that the tournament was over knowing we did everything we could, gratitude for the opportunity to compete as a member of Team USA, sadness that our Team never took 1st place
What are you proud of in kendo?
I am very proud to have been a member and coach of Team USA
What are your future goals in kendo?
Coach Team USA to 1st place at the WKC. Challenge 8 Dan
Do you have any kenshi whom you look up to as your goal (target) and why?
I try to learn from everyone, my students, my contemporaries and my superiors. I also look up to the Amateur and Professional Kendoka around the world because I understand how much they have to endure and give up to achieve their own Kendo goals.
Brandon Harada氏の記事は、剣道日本９月号に掲載しています。
A more detailed interview can be found in the September 2021 issue of Kendo Nippon!
