SENSEI
Those who made the road
before
Harry 'Herk' Weihrauch
Isshinryu lineage: Tatsuo Shimabukuro >
Harry G. Smith
> Thomas C. Voelker
> Harry 'Herk' Weihrauch
November 27, 1964
Herk Weihrauch began training in Isshinryu during
the winter of 1981 under the direction of Sensei Tom Voelker in
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. During this time he had the rare privilege
of being able to exchange ideas and share techniques with numerous
veteran karateka from different disciplines including Kung Fu,
Kempo, Judo and TaeKwondo. In addition, Herk was mentored by a Bando
kick boxer and a collegiate level wrestler who, combined with his
multi-discipline exposure and strict karate training, helped mold
his appreciation for Isshinryu as a practical and effective style
for real self-defense. He was also given the opportunity to
participate in seminars run by Master Kichiro Shimabuku.
In 1983 Herk earned his brown belt after which his
karate studies were put on hold for 3 years while he majored in
Medical Technology at the University of Pittsburgh and worked
full-time. During the late 1980's and early 1990's Herk trained off
and on maintaining mostly his fighting skills. In addition, he
developed proficiency in joint locks, throws, sweeps, and take-downs
by cross-training in Hapkido for two years. In 1997 Herk returned to
his Isshinryu roots and was awarded Shodan in February of 1998. Once
again a short hiatus was taken due to travel with work.
In 2003 Herk returned to Isshinryu full-time, and
in 2005 he was awarded Nidan by head instructor, Bob Wolf, who also
gave him the honor of becoming an assistant instructor. Herk enjoys
teaching and helping those who are eager to learn. He feels
privileged and humbled to have worked with many skilled martial
artists on his karate journey, and he continues to look forward to
learning from and training with many more.
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