Samurai sword is one of the most coveted and popular weapons. This month we have added Dana Abbot's "Chanbara Instructor's Training Course" to the Premium Level subscription for the month of March 2008. Dana Abbotis one of the most well respected sword instructor/trainiers in the martial arts community.

Here's a quick biography on Master Dana Abbot:

Shihan Dana Abbott after a quarter century of extensive study including 14 years in Yokohama, Japan returned to the United States to share his knowledge reguarding the ways of the Japanese sword in the samurai manner.  Shihan Abbott in his own inimitable way is able to instruct in a clear, concise Zen like fashion geared for both beginner and master alike. 

Prior to the beginning of his martial arts education he graduated from Arizona State University where he obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1978.  His bladed weapon experience is extensive and well polished.  He has taught and conducted seminars in over 30 countries.  Also, he is honored to hold the esteemed rank of Kyoshi 7th Dan, in the sword art of Goshindo, obtained at the Hombu Dojo in Yokohama, Japan.

In 1995 he was appointed to the position of Kokusai Bucho (International Director) for the All Japan Goshindo Renmei and the International Sports Chanbara Association, which has more than 200,000 members worldwide.  Master Abbott returned to the United States in 1998 setting up Samurai Sports, Inc., which enabled him to use his vast knowledge, gained from his experiences and studies in the Orient. 

Shihan Abbott resides in Scottsdale, Arizona with his wife Tanaka Mari and their two children.  He instructs the "spirit of the thing" throughout the United States giving seminars and individualized personal training to fit anyones needs.

The following awards have been bestowed upon Shihan Abbott:


• 2004   Black Belt Magazine Hall of Fame, Weapons Instructor of the Year
• 2004   United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame
• 2004   Universal Martial Arts Halls of Fame
• 2005   Action Martial Arts Magazine Hall of Fame
• 2005   World Karate Union Hall of Fame