Congrats to these three incredible martial artists who over the years have inspired and taught generations the values and discipline of the martial arts.
Costa Mesa, CA (For Release) -Grandmaster Darryl Vidal, a 10th Degree Black Belt (Ju Dan) in Chinese Kenpo Karate, honored three members of his own dojo with induction into the Masters Hall of Fame at the 20th Anniversary Awards Banquet at the Hilton Orange County Costa Mesa. Hanshi Dan Cliff Belschner, and Shichidan Michael Gregson and Shichi Dan Jacqui Wendling joined the ranks of such martial arts luminaries as Don “The Dragon” Wilson, Cynthia “Lady Dragon” Rothrock and Dr. Robert Goldman.
“In order to be nominated and inducted [into the Masters Hall of Fame], we’re looking for twenty to thirty years of teaching and training experience,” explains Vidal in a red carpet interview he conducted with the inductees following the ceremony. In addition to experience, candidates are nominated for their work in and contributions to their communities.
Hanshi Dan Belschner is one such example of inspiration and contribution, having continued to teach following an accident that confined him to a wheelchair. “I think it made me a stronger teacher,” he tells Vidal, “to show those students you just need to overcome. You can rise.”
Shichi Dan Wendling, who has taught high school chemistry in addition to Kenpo, explains the similarities between the two endeavors, saying, “Once you have the basics, you can build off of the basics. And that’s where the confidence comes, the ability to think on your feet and respond to uncomfortable situations.”
The Masters Hall of Fame was founded in 1999 and is recognized as the premier Martial Arts event on the West Coast. The association recognizes exceptional Martial Arts Leaders and Legends through induction into the Masters Hall of Fame. Honorees are chosen for their dedication to and support of the martial arts and their work in the community. Find more information on the Masters Hall of Fame at mastershalloffame.org
Press release by Stephen Prendergast, Kamatoy Media Group
David Kamatoy inducted to the Masters Hall of Fame in 2013. Kamatoy Media Group has been working with Masters Hall of Fame for several years. Media and Red Carpet inquires please contact us via this website or KamatoyMediaGroup.com
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