About the Instructor
Michael Veltri, Chief Instructor,
Okinawa Aikikai, U.S. Dojos, Washington, D.C.
Michael Veltri began his study of Aikido while stationed with the United States
Marine Corps in southern California. Fluent in Japanese, Veltri trained in Japan for ten years including a traditional "uchi-deshi" apprenticeship under Iwao Yamaguchi.
A graduate of The Ohio State University with a B.A. in Japanese, Veltri also completed a one-year study abroad program at International Christian University in Tokyo, Japan. Veltri is a 4th degree black belt.
Michael is also a cancer survivor. Diagnosed with testicular cancer in April 2003, he underwent corrective surgery and chemotherapy to treat the disease. Veltri Sensei successfully completed all treatments in November 2003, and credits his Aikido training with helping to overcome the ravaging physical, mental, and spiritual effects of cancer.
He is an active volunteer for the American Cancer Society. If you are interested in volunteer opportunities in your local community,
visit the American Cancer Society's
Web site.
The current Aikido Doshu, Moriteru Ueshiba Sensei, authorized Veltri Sensei to own and operate a Zaidan Hojin Aikikai affiliated dojo. All rank obtained from Veltri Sensei is recognized worldwide.
About Iwao Yamaguchi, Chief Instructor,
Okinawa Aikikai, Okinawa, Japan
Yamaguchi Sensei began training in traditional Okinawa Karate during his early childhood. As a young man, he complemented his Karate training with intensive Yoga instruction.
As his mastery of Karate and Yoga continued, Yamaguchi Sensei searched for a deeper physical, mental, and spiritual challenge.
He found that challenge in Aikido.
After an intensive period of study at the Aikido World Headquarters in Tokyo, Yamaguchi Sensei returned to Okinawa Prefecture and established the Okinawa Aikikai.
As a fulltime Aikido instructor, Yamaguchi Sensei teaches a full schedule of Aikido classes at several dojos throughout Okinawa Prefecture.
Okinawa Aikikai U.S. Dojos
2639
Connecticut Ave, NW, Suite C-104,
Washington, D.C. 20008
Telephone: 202.338.8690
Email: mveltri@dcaikido.com
A direct affiliate of the Aikikai Foundation,
Aikido World Headquarters, Tokyo, Japan.
©
2007 Okinawa Aikikai, U.S. Dojos. All rights reserved.