剣道日本2023年６月号の「海外実力派剣士」にご登場いただいたのは、アメリカチームのキャプテンを務めたジェイソンブラウン選手です。５回アメリカ代表となり、個人戦でもベスト８まで勝ち進んだ経験を持つ実力者です。アンケートの英文を掲載します。
How old were you when you started kendo and why did you start?
I was 6 years old and I started kendo with my siblings (older brother and older sister). I did not know what it was at first. I just wanted to do what they were doing.
What do you find attractive about kendo?
I have many answers, but one thing I find attractive about kendo is that it is ageless. In most sports, you mainly practice or compete with people your age. But in Kendo, you could be 50 years old, and still practice with someone in their 20’s.
Have you participated in any world championships? Have you won any prizes in World championships?
Yes. 5 world championships. I received fighting spirit at the 14 WKC in Individuals, and was on the team for 15, 16, and 17 WKC and received 3rd place.
What did you feel after participating in international championships?
Initially I felt heartbreak after the world kendo championships, as our goal was always to get first place. That heartbreak later changes to acceptance, and I feel proud of myself for being able to complete this journey.
What are you proud of in kendo?
I’m proud of being able to train and represent the United States for 15 years, and also being captain for the 17 WKC.
What are your future goals in kendo?
I want to focus on teaching and coaching the next generation of kenshi. Both locally for my own dojo, but also across California and the United States.
Do you have any kenshi(剣士) whom you look up to as your goal (target) and why?
I look up to both Christopher Yang and Daniel Yang. I have done kendo with them all of my life, and seeing their hard work and dedication has influenced me to become the person that I am today. I would not be where I am in my life if it was not for the both of them.
2018年の世界大会ではアメリカのキャプテンを務めました。この映像は、キャプテンとして最後の試合となった、韓国との準決勝戦です。