Hanshi's Test 2002

Hanshi Jerry Piddington founded the American Karate Academies Nation Association to promulgate the real spirit of karatedo (do - the way or discipline of karate) in America. "The spirit of karate is health, education, and well-being of the community," says Piddington. The area schools in his organization who participated in the test were SideKick Karate Dojos (Schools) in China Grove, Concord, Lexington and American Freestyle Schools in Denver and Fort Mill. Instead of testing in the dojo, Piddington requested to owner of SideKick Karate, Ricky Smith, to find a test site outdoors. "I believe in incorporating the elements such as earth, wind, fire, and water, which are a gift from our creator," says Piddington. "Students learn to adjust to the elements as they perform." Part of the test was to come together in unity and prepare the site. A total of 17 students cut wood, mowed, raked, dug fire pits, built two sweat lodges, and cleaned to prepare the site for the test. The twelve-hour test consisted of students performing empty-hand kata (prearranged movements in a set pattern), self defense waza (techniques), sparring, ancient weapons, meditation, sanchin (breathing technique), mushin (mind of no mind), a half mile to one mile run through the countryside, board breaking, and a 21-34 rock warrior sweat. After the sweat, students ate a meal, had fellowship and camped around the camp fire. "It’s all about unity and coming together for the greater gain of all," says Piddington.

High ranking promotions included Danny McCall of Denver to 8^th degree black belt, Ricky Smith of China Grove to 7^th degree black belt, Randy Smith of China Grove to 6^th degree black belt, Rickey Dease of China Grove to 2^nd degree black belt, Madison Hobbs of China Grove to Jr. 3^rd degree black belt (the first Jr. 3^rd degree black belt in American Open Karate), and Rusty Watts of China Grove to Jr. 2^nd degree black belt. Students who received their Shodan (1^st degree) black belt included, Mark Helms, Debbie Watts, Andrea Josey, and Clay Fields. Students who received their Jr. Shodan (18 years old and under) black belt included, Julie Alexander, Jeff McClenney, Bret Krahel, and Taylor Honeycutt.

Ricky Smith, owner of SideKick Karate, was also appointed Chief Instructor of American Open Karate. SideKick Karate in China Grove presented Hanshi Piddington with a framed copy of his Headmaster certificate celebrating the thirty year anniversary of his style. This anniversary places American Open Karate in the history of karate lineage as a recognized traditional style.