Three Sapulpa Institute of Karate students were tested for Yellow Belt by the UGKA Masters Class. Courtney Horn, Justin Hamilton, and Craig Ware were promoted to Yellow Belt after successfully testing and exhibiting their required skills. Mr. Ted Soliday, 10th DAN, Mr. Darrell Maggard, 8th DAN, Mr. Leon Longacre, 7th DAN, Nancie "Tiny" Longacre, 7th DAN, and Mr. Steve Lemley, 1st DAN were on hand for the test.
March 29, 2011 update: UGKA Test Night!
The UGKA test night was held on March 29, 2011, with testing for Black Belt, Brown Belt, Purple Belt, and Yellow Belt with students from the Sapulpa Institute of Karate, Collin's Fight Academy in Sand Springs (Scott Collins 7th DAN, Sensei), and the Mannford Institute of Karate (Katie Carr, 3rd Dan, Sensei) in Mannford. Grandmaster Ted Soliday, 10th DAN oversaw the testing along with Mr. Bob Santine, 8th DAN; Mr. Darrell Maggard, 8th DAN; Mr. Leon Longacre, 7th DAN; Tiny Longacre, 7th DAN along with attending UGKA Black Belts and guests.
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January 27, 2011 update: UGKA Master's recognize Ms. Katie Carr during Thursday night Master's class!
Katie Carr, 3rd DAN, with mentor and Sensei Mr. Ted Soliday, 10th DAN, Mr. Darell Maggard, 8th DAN, and Mr. Bob Santine, 8th DAN.
The Thursday night Master's Class recognized Ms. Katie Carr as Mr. Ted Soliday, 10th DAN, presented her with her certification of 3rd Degree. The United Goju Karate Association, and the Sapulpa Institute of Karate follow the same traditions since the time Lou Angel brought Japanese Goju Ryu Karate to Tulsa with his studies under Gogan "The Cat" Yamaguchi.
Katie Carr credits Mr. Ted Soliday in being her mentor, and also recognizes UGKA karate instructors who have helped her develop in her career. Mr. Alan Anderson, who got her started in karate, and Mr. Clayton Badger (pictured above), who helped her get through her brown and black belt tests. Katie Carr began her karate career in 2002, and has been with Mr. Ted Soliday since the beginning of 2005. Katie's accomplishments have been a testament to the hard work each of these people invested in her. Katie is a three time national fighting champion of the American Karate Association, and a member of the American Karate Association Hall of Fame in Chicago, Illinois. Katie is also a national fighting champion of the Midwest Martial Arts Association and a member of the Midwest Martial Arts Association Hall of Fame in Springfield, Illinois.
January 11, 2011 update: Ms. Katie Carr promoted to 3rd Degree Blackbelt!
Katie Carr, UGKA Blackbelt and Sensei of the Mannford Institute of Karate in Mannford, Oklahoma, was promoted by Grandmaster Ted Soliday, 10th DAN to 3rd Degree Blackbelt. Also recognizing Katie Carr's promotion was Mr. Teddy Soliday, 4th DAN.
Katie Carr is a three time national fighting champion of the American Karate Association, a national fighting champion of the Midwest Martial Arts Association, and a two time state fighting champion of the Oklahoma Karate Association. Katie was featured in the 2009 Women In Martial Arts issue of Martial Arts Entertainment Magazine and has been inducted into the Hall of Fame in the Midwest Martial Arts Association, and the Hall of Fame of the American Karate Association in Chicago.
Katie Carr with Mr. Ted Soliday, 10th DAN, and Mr. Teddy Soliday, 4th DAN, after her promotion to 3rd degree Blackbelt
January 4, 2011 update: UGKA mourns the passing of Mr. Howard Fields, 10th DAN.
Japanese Goju Ryu Karate Pioneer and Grandmaster Mr. Howard Fields, 10th DAN, passed away this morning in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Mr. Fields was recognized in 2009 as 10th DAN by Mr. Ted Soliday of the UGKA, by Mr. Briscoe and Mr. Kinney of the Wildbunch Karate Association, Mr. Earl Giley who hosted the recognition ceremony at his 2009 Oklahoma Nationals Karate Tournament in Tulsa. Mr. Fields was an original black belt who began his karate career under Mr. Lou Angel, 10th DAN back when Mr. Angel first brought Japanese Goju Ryu Karate to the Midwest, headquartered in Tulsa. As an instructor and black belt, Mr. Fields established and mentored generations of black belts throughout his years of service in the martial arts. For the hundreds of karate students and black belts he touched during his life, he will be greatly missed.
Mr. Soliday and Mr. Fields at the 2010 Wildbunch Reunion
Mr. Soliday and Goju Black Belts recognizing Mr. Fields in 2009
Mr. Maggard and Mr. Soliday visit with Mr. Fields
Ms. Katie Carr chats with Mr. Fields
December 24, 2010 update: Thursday Night Master's Class working on Bo Kata!
Teddy Soliday, 4th DAN, and Leon Longacre, 7th DAN, working on Bo Kata
The Master's Class meets every Thursday night in downtown Sapulpa to work on Kata's. This class is comprised of black belts interested in staying current with their forms, as well as a perfect opportunity for black belts to get back into karate. For advanced brown belts seeking their black belt, working out in the Master's Class is an opportunity to refine their technique as well. For more information or interest on the Master's Class, contact Mr. Soliday.
October 28, 2010 update: Mr. Soliday promotes Mr. Merle Cole at the Master's Class on Thursday night!
At the Master's Class on Thursday evening, Mr. Soliday awarded Mr. Merle Cole his blackbelt!
The UGKA Master's Class is on Hobson Ave in downtown Sapulpa and meets on Thursday nights starting at 6:30pm.
If you are a Soliday Black belt *OR* a Soliday Brown Belt interested in getting back to karate, the Thursday Night Master's Class is the class for you! Come join us! Here is a Google Maps street view and map link to where we meet each week.
View Larger MapOctober 25, 2010 update: Blackbelt test at Collins' Combat Academy!!
Mr. Soliday attended Sensei Scott Collins' Sapulpa school where his Blackbelt candidate Josh Reed was testing. UGKA blackbelts also attending for the test were Mr. Steve Lemley, 1st DAN, Mr. Leon Longacre, 7th DAN, and Nancie "Tiny" Longacre, 7th DAN.
Josh did an excellent job showing not only his skills but the strength of his endurance and was awarded his Blackbelt in traditional Japanese Goju Ryu Karate.
October 12, 2010 update: Sapulpa Institute of Karate features new up and coming students!
The Sapulpa Institute of Karate, meeting every Tuesday night at 6:30pm, has been training up a class of new karate students. Showing their skills, the latest Soliday students demonstrate their skills under the instruction and guidance of Mr. Ted Soliday, 10th DAN and Mr. Teddy Soliday, 4th DAN. Visiting the class to see the abilities of these up and coming karate students were Nancie "Tiny" Longacre, 7th DAN, and Mr. Leon Longacre, 7th DAN, two of Mr. Soliday's most senior black belts within the UGKA. During the class, Mr. Soliday also worked with his more advanced students, concentrating their training on kata's and forms.
The Sapulpa Institute of Karate is the longest running school of martial arts in Oklahoma, with a strong, rich history of training excellent and respected black belts in traditional Japanese Goju Ryu Karate.
September 25, 2010 update: The UGKA attends the 40th Anniversary of the Wild Bunch Karate Association!
Mr. Soliday catches up with Mr. Lou Angel, 10th DAN, at the Wild Bunch 40th Anniversary Party.
Mr. Soliday is recognized in his promotion to 10th DAN!
Mr. Soliday and the Blackbelts and members of the UGKA attended the 40th Anniversary of the Wild Bunch Karate Association. Mr. Soliday and the UGKA has a long history as members of the Wild Bunch, and it was a great time for many of the original Goju Blackbelts from the 1960's to reunite. In addition to Wild Bunch founders Bill Briscoe and Bob Kinney, the event was also attended by the father of Goju Karate in this part of the country, Mr. Lou Angel, 10th DAN. Mr. Angel and his twin brother Pete Angel brought Goju Karate to this part of the United States from New York where they had studied under Peter Urban. Mr. Lou Angel traveled to Japan and also studied directly under Gogen Yamaguchi who was the father of Japanese Goju Karate (who in turn had studied Okinawan Goju Karate under Chojun Miyagi, the originator and founder of the Goju style). Mr. Lou Angel established the Tulsa Institute of Karate in 1961, and produced the set of Blackbelts that continued his efforts throughout this part of the country. Bill Briscoe, Darrell Maggard, Bob Santine, Howard Fields, and Mr. Soliday are among the Blackbelts from that time. The celebration was joined by the generations of Blackbelts both who have continued the tradition as well as established themselves over the years.
During the event, Mr. Soliday promoted Mr. James Keys, Mr. Darrell Maggard, and Mr. Bob Santine to 8th Degree for their many years of dedication in karate, their accomplishments, and their strong contribution as founding members of what today was represented by everyone present.
May 26, 2010 update: Grandmaster Ted Soliday awards Mr. Steve Lemley the rank of Black Belt!
The UGKA belt test was held last Monday night at Mr. Scott Collin's Sand Springs Institute of Karate and was judged and attended by Mr. Leon Longacre, 7th DAN as well as Nanci "Tiny" Longacre, 7th DAN. As part of the belt testing, Mr. Steve Lemley successfully tested for his Black Belt, and was awarded by Mr. Ted Soliday, 9th DAN.
Mr. Lemley also works out with the Master's Class offered by Mr. Soliday on Thursday nights in Sapulpa - also attended by Mr. Maggard and Mr. Santine.
January 15, 2010 update: Master's Class offered - Thursday Nights!
Mr. Soliday, 9th DAN, is offering a Masters' Class on Thursday nights. For Black Belts that are interested in training for their next rank, being able to work out with other Black Belts, or just wanting to get back in after being out of karate for a while, this class would be ideal. Some of the highest ranking Soliday Black Belts attend this class as well as the Masters who trained Mr. Soliday - Mr. Darrell Maggard and Mr. Bob Santine.
November 14, 2009 update: Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, featured in newspaper pictures from the 2009 DragonFest Karate Tournament!
A newspaper cameraman from the Eureka Springs' Lovely Citizen newspaper was present at the 2009 DragonFest Karate Tournament and took some pictures of Katie Carr, 2nd DAN as she competed at the tournament. The photos are courtesy of the Lovely Citizen and their website can be found at...
November 7, 2009 update: Grandmaster Soliday attends the 2009 DragonFest Karate Tournament in Eureka springs with competitors Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, and Brown Belt Scott Carr!
Mr. Soliday traveled to Eureka Springs, Arkansas to attend the American Karate Association's 2009 DragonFest Karate Tournament. Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN and Brown Belt Scott Carr also attended to compete. Both Katie Carr and Scott Carr are leading their respective divisions to receive National Championships again this year.
Mr. Soliday particpated in judging Black Belt divisions at the tournament. Katie Carr also participated in judging several divisions.
Katie Carr won 1st Place in Fighting and 1st Place in Forms Competition. Scott Carr won 1st Place in Fighting and won 3rd Place in Forms and 3rd Place in Weapons Competition.
October 17, 2009 update: Mannford Institute of Karate wins at the Shotokan Tiger's "The Pirate's Realm" 2009 Karate Tournament of Youth in Broken Arrow, OK!
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN and Sensei of the Mannford Institute of Karate brought her student, White Belt Quint Morrow, to compete at the Shotokan Tiger's 2009 Tournament of Youth - "The Pirates Realm". Quint competed in Fighting competition and won 2nd Place! Katie also competed and took 1st Place in Forms Competition as well as 1st Place in Fighting!
Grandmaster Janis Fraley took some time out from the tournament to visit with Katie, and was kind enough to have her picture taken.
Sensei Katie Carr instructs her student, White Belt Quint Morrow
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, pictured with Ms. Janis Fraley, 10th DAN at the Shotokan Tigers' Karate Tournament
September 24, 2009 update: Soliday Black Belt and Champion MMA fighter Thomas "Thunderkick" Longacre visits UGKA Schools!
Mr. Soliday, 9th DAN, pictured with Thomas "Thunderkick" Longacre, 3rd DAN, and Mr. Teddy Soliday, 3rd DAN.
The GOJU Warriors! Katie "Iron Fist" Carr, Midwest Martial Arts Fighting Champion, two time AKA National Fighting Champion, and 2nd Degree Black Belt, is pictured with Thomas "Thunderkick" Longacre, MMA Champion, Kickboxing Champion, and 3rd Degree Black Belt, along with Japanese Goju Ryu Karate Fighting Legend Nancie "Tiny" Longacre, 7th Degree Black Belt!
Thomas "Thunderkick" Longacre arrived in the Tulsa area to fight in the upcoming Strikeforce Challengers match which will be airing live on Showtime Sports! Thomas Longacre is a 3rd Degree Black Belt in Japanese Goju Ryu Karate under Mr. Soliday and went on to work with Apollo's Karate in addition to launching his professional fighting career in Kickboxing. Thomas later entered Chuck Norris' World Combat League and provided his strong leadership and skills to the Oklahoma Destroyers with fights so memorable they are featured on a Greatest Hits DVD available from the WCL! Thomas launched his MMA career in the eXtreme Fight League, eventually becoming the XFL's reigning Champion. With the upcoming Strikeforce Challengers MMA Cage Match in Tulsa, Thomas gets a shot at debuting in one of the larger Mixed Martial Arts circuits in the country - not to mention national television exposure as his fight will be carried live on Showtime Sports!
More information on Thomas "Thunderkick" Longacre can be found on his website at http://www.tkick.tv including his bio of how he entered into professional fighting!
Thunderkick visited the Sand Springs Institute of Karate this past week, working out with the class and spending time with Sensei Scott Collins, 7th DAN.
On Tuesday, Thunderkick came to the Sapulpa Institute of Karate, spending time with his Sensei and mentor, Mr. Soliday, 9th DAN. Thomas also spent time visiting with UGKA Instructor Teddy Soliday, 3rd DAN, as well as visiting with Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, who has benefited from more than one fight training with Thomas during her karate tournament career. Thomas' help, along with Goju Fighting Legend Nancie "Tiny" Longacre, 7th DAN, has contributed greatly to Katie's titles as a two time Oklahoma State Fighting Champion, two time American Karate Association Fighting Champion, Midwest Martial Arts Association Fighting Champion, and of course her recent induction into the Midwest Martial Arts Hall of Fame!
Each of the schools and their students were extremely grateful for the time Thomas took out of his busy schedule to visit.
At Thomas "Thunderkick" Longacre's weigh-in for the Strikeforce Challengers MMA fight on Showtime was Mr. Ted Soliday, 9th DAN and Goju Black Belt Legends and UGKA Directors Darrell Maggard and Bob Santini.
August 29, 2009 update: UGKA Black Belt Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, and Soliday Brown Belt Scott Carr win at the Northwest Arkansas Open Karate Tournament!
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, and Scott Carr, Brown Belt, traveled to compete this weekend at the American Karate Association's Northwest Arkansas Open Karate Tournament in Springdale, AR.
Katie Carr was able to visit a bit with Sensei Keith Bly, one of the hosts of the upcoming Natural State Classic later in September.
Katie also was pleased to see Grandmaster Earl Gilkey, who was in attendance. Mr. Gilkey has provided a great deal of encouragement of Katie throughout the years, and he was quite helpful at this tournament as well!
Summit of the Goju Champions!!
Gilkey student Sam Wigley was also present and competing in this tournament! Sam and Katie spent a good bit of time visiting and catching up. While its hard to believe - Sam actually competes in more tournaments than Katie does!
Katie took 1st Place in Fighting, and 4th Place in Forms competition. Scott Carr won 1st Place in Fighting, 3rd Place in Forms, and 3rd Place in Weapons competition.
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, wins 1st Place in Fighting, 4th Place in Forms competition.
Scott Carr, Soliday Brown Belt, wins 1st Place in Fighting, 3rd Place in Forms, and 3rd Place in Weapons competition.
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, with Sensei Patrick Crouch, 1st DAN from Groves Karate in Eureka Springs. Katie has been grateful for Sensei Crouch's encouragement and help in the AKA!
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, challenges the winner and Champion of the Male Black Belt Division to an Exhibition fight.
Katie Carr, UGKA Black Belt and Sensei of the Mannford Institute of Karate, squares off against a very tough male black belt opponent, one who had taken 1st Place in fighting - defeating all of his competition. Although outsized, Katie aggressively pursues and ends up winning the match!
August 25, 2009 update: Martial Arts Entertainment Magazine has featured Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, in their "Women In The Martial Arts Series"!
Martial Arts Entertainment Magazine features Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, in their "Women In The Martial Arts" Series! Katie Carr is an American Karate Association National Champion, a Midwest Martial Arts Association Champion, an Oklahoma State Champion, and a member of the Midwest Martial Arts Hall of Fame. Katie Carr is also a UGKA Black Belt Instructor and the Sensei and Founder of the Mannford Institute of Karate.
August 22, 2009 update: Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, and Scott Carr, Soliday Brown Belt, win at the Showdown in J-Town Martial Arts Championships in Joplin, Mo!
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, visits with Mr. Richard Osborn, Sr, 9th DAN
Scott Carr, Brown Belt, with 2nd Place Weapons, 1st Place Forms, and 2nd Place Fighting trophies.
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, with 3rd Place Forms and 3rd Place Fighting trophies from the Adult Women's Black Belt divisions.
Katie Carr, Sensei of the Mannford Institute of Karate and UGKA Instructor, and Scott Carr, Soliday Brown Belt, traveled to Joplin, Missouri to compete in the Midwest Martial Arts Association's Showdown in J-Town Martial Arts Championships. Katie Carr, a 2nd degree Black Belt, competes in the Adult Women's Black Belt divisions in the MMA Southern Conference to provide an increased level of competition. Katie took 3rd Place in Forms Competition, and 3rd Place in Fighting against some strong opponents.
Scott Carr, Assistant Instructor at the Mannford Institute of Karate, took 2nd Place in Weapons competition using the Sai. Scott took 1st Place in Forms competition, and was able to compete for Grand Champion although he came up a bit shy on points. Scott took 2nd Place in Fighting competition.
Mr. Richard Osborn Sr, 9th DAN, spent a bit of time visiting with Katie Carr, and was kind enough to get his picture taken with Katie. Katie also helped judge some of the divisions in the tournament, helping where she was needed.
August 1, 2009 update: Grandmaster Ted Soliday, 9th DAN, is inducted into the United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame in Nashville, TN!
Mr. Soliday, accompanied by his son Teddy Soliday, 3rd DAN, brother Richard Soliday and Soliday Brown Belt Scott Carr, traveled to Nashville, Tennessee to participate and be inducted into the United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame! The United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame recognized Mr. Soliday's 43 years of active involvement in Japanese Goju Ryu Karate, his instructing one of the longest running schools in this part of the country, the Sapulpa Institute of Karate founded in 1967, and the rich traditions he has offered so many of his students for so long teaching karate in the same manner as it was taught to him by his Sensei Darrell Maggard, and brought back directly from Gogen Yamaguchi via Lou Angel.
Mr. Soliday was inducted along with other martial arts pioneers, including the legendary Victor Moore, the man who fought them all!
Mr. Soliday and Victor Moore after their Hall of Fame inductions
July 30, 2009 update: The Sapulpa Herald highlights Mr. Soliday and his induction into the United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame!
The Sapulpa Herald recently ran an article on the United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame's selection of Mr. Soliday for induction.
Soliday 'humbled' by Hall of Fame selection
Local karate teacher to be inducted Saturday
"Soliday's karate class, which currently has 25 students, does push-ups at the beginning of class to loosen up muscles for more difficult drills later. With Soliday overseeing the class, Scott Carr (right), who is a brown belt, leads the students in their warm-up exercises. Photos by BEN JOHNSON/Herald"
July 18, 2009 update: The UGKA competes at the 15th Annual Whirlwind Classic Karate Tournament in Tulsa, OK!
Mr. Soliday attended the 15th Annual Whirlwind Classic Karate Tournament in Tulsa, OK, hosted by Larry Wells and held at Tulsa Central High School. Grandmaster Soliday participated in the annual Whirlwind Black Belt Photo along with UGKA Black Belt, Nancie "Tiny" Longacre, 7th DAN, and a host of Black Belts from Oklahoma, Missouri, Arkansas, and Texas.
Mr. Soliday had two students from the Sapulpa Institute of Karate compete in the tournament - Soliday Green Belt Damien competed in Forms and Fighting in a huge division, receiving a medal for his efforts! Soliday Purple Belt Chelsea Boen competed in Forms and Fighting in her very first effort in the Adult Intermediate division! While she didn't place in Forms competition, Chelsea took 3rd Place in Adult Women's fighting!
Scott Carr, Soliday Brown Belt and assistant instructor at the Mannford Institute of Karate, helped coach and assist the UGKA competitors during the tournament.
Mr. Soliday visits with Mr. Richard Osborn, Sr, 9th DAN, who brought strong competition with him from Springfield, MO!
Nancie "Tiny" Longacre, 7th DAN, wins 1st Place in Black Belt Forms at the Whirlwind Classic!
June 27, 2009 update: Soliday Brown Belt, Scott Carr, wins at the Midwest Martial Arts Association's St. Louis Showdown Karate Tournament!
Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, and Brown Belt Scott Carr traveled to St. Louis, MO to compete in the Midwest Martial Arts Association's St. Louis Showdown Karate Tournament. Unfortunately, Katie Carr was not feeling well enough to compete, so the UGKA was represented by Scott Carr.
Scott took 1st Place in Weapons competition, 1st Place in Forms Competition, and 2nd Place in Fighting.
Katie Carr attended the tournament Black Belt meeting, and greatly appreciated both Mr. Richard Osborn, Jr. and Mr. David Frazier's concern for her. Mr. David Frazier is also the 2009 President of the Midwest Martial Arts Association, and was kind enough to get his picture taken with Katie Carr.
Both Katie Carr and Scott Carr are members of the Midwest Martial Arts Association Southern Conference, and have competed in MMASC tournaments for the past couple tournament seasons.
June 13, 2009 update: UGKA wins at the American Karate Association's Grand Nationals & Bluegrass Nationals Karate Tournament in Louisville, KY!
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, and Sensei of the Mannford Institute of Karate along with Scott Carr, Soliday Brown Belt, traveled to Louisville, KY for the AKA Grand Nationals and Bluegrass Nationals Karate Tournament! A NASKA rated event, this tournament is one of the largest in the country and attracts some of the very best competitors from across the country!
Katie Carr competed in a division featuring 14 Black Belts representing the best of the best, with many of them NASKA seeded in the tournament. While Katie did not place in Traditional Forms competition, she fought her way through the brackets in Fighting Competition to finish in 3rd Place!
Scott Carr competed in Weapons using Sai, and took 2nd Place in the Underbelt Advanced Division. In Traditional Forms competition, Scott took 2nd Place again against strong competition. In Fighting, Scott dominated his division and took 1st Place.
Both Katie and Scott are members of the American Karate Association competing in the Southern Region and are in the running for national titles during the 2009 tournament season. Both are 2008 national champions in the American Karate Association, and Katie is also a 2007 national champion.
Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, wins 3rd Place in Fighting in her Black Belt division against some of the best Black Belts in the country!
Soliday Brown Belt, Scott Carr, wins 1st Place in Fighting, 2nd Place in Forms, and 2nd Place in Weapons competition!
Mr. John Sharkey, Jr - American Karate Association President, took some time out during the tournament and was kind enough to get his picture taken with Katie! The last time Mr. Sharkey visited with Katie was during the AKA Awards Banquet. Katie greatly appreciated his time and interest in how she was doing in the tournament!
June 09, 2009 update: White Belt test held at the Sapulpa Institute of Karate!
Grandmaster Soliday along with UGKA Instructors Mr. Teddy Soliday, 3rd DAN and Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, preside over the White Belt testing.
White Belt test night consisted of those students testing for their first stripe (9th KYU) as well as those White Belts testing for their second stripe (8th KYU).
Mr. Ted Soliday's Sapulpa Institute of Karate held its White Belt testing tonight with a strong class of students testing for their next rank. About half of the White Belts completed their training requirements and tested tonight for the first stripe (9th KYU), and were joined by the other half of White Belts who participated in the 9th KYU requirements and then went on to test for their second stripe (8th KYU).
UGKA Instructors Mr. Teddy Soliday, 3rd DAN, and Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, contributed in evaluating the testing students and insuring they all had successfully passed all expectations needed for certification.
After the White Belt testing was completed, the color belts continued their training in both movements and katas.
Sapulpa Institute of Karate - Whitebelt test will be held June 9th!
Please note that next week those Sapulpa Institute of Karate Whitebelt students ready for testing will be tested for their next rank. Please be sure to arrive early to prepare.
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May 16, 2009 update: Mr. Soliday and the UGKA attend the Shotokan Tigers' 2009 Bruce Lee Blades of Steel Karate Tournament in Broken Arrow, OK!
Mr. Ted Soliday, 9th DAN, and Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, visit with Grandmaster Janis Fraley before the tournament begins.
Grandmaster Soliday, UGKA Blackbelt Katie Carr, and Grandmaster Gilkey during the tournament.
Mr. Soliday and UGKA competitors attended the 2009 Bruce Lee Blades of Steel Karate Tournament, hosted by Janis Fraley's Shotokan Tigers in Broken Arrow, OK. Mr. Soliday participated in judging the Black Belt divisions, along with fellow Goju Grandmaster, Earl Gilkey.
Competitors from the UGKA included students from Mr. Soliday's Sapulpa Institute of Karate; Ms. Katie Carr's Mannford Institute of Karate, and Mr. Scott Collins' Sand Springs Institute of Karate.
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN
Katie Carr took 1st Place in Forms competition. She won 2nd Place in Fighting after an exciting heavy hitting, heavy kicking match against a very strong male black belt opponent, being edged out by a single point as time ran out.
Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, Sensei of the Mannford Institute of Karate with father and assistant instructor Scott Carr, Brown Belt. Mr. Carr did not compete in this tournament, instead he helped insure all of the UGKA students got to the rings and were prepared and ready for competition.
Mr. Scott Collins, 7th DAN, Sensei of the Sand Springs Institute of Karate with his White Belt student, Hunter. Hunter competed in beginning forms for his division, but moved up to fight in the intermediate division to insure a better level of competition.
May 02, 2009 update: The UGKA's Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, and Soliday Brown Belt Scott Carr compete in the MMASC's Four State Brawl karate tournament in Neosho, MO!
Scott Carr, Brown Belt, won 2nd Place in Weapons, 2nd Place in Forms, and 2nd Place in Fighting at the MMASC's 2009 Four State Brawl!
Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, won 2nd Place in Fighting and 2nd Place in Forms Competition at the 2009 Four State Brawl!
Katie Carr, 2nd Dan, and Scott Carr, Brown Belt, traveled to Neosho, Mo to compete in the Midwest Martial Art Association Southern Conference's 2009 Four State Brawl Karate Tournament. Scott Carr competed in Adult Weapons Competition and, in close competition, won 2nd Place using traditional Sai weapons. This was the first tournament for Scott competing in the Advanced divisions, and in Forms Competition, Scott won 2nd Place, as well as 2nd Place in Fighting.
In the MMASC, Katie competes up in the Adult Women's Black Belt division. Katie took 2nd Place in Fighting in a very close competition. In Forms, Katie tied for 1st Place and the competitors went to a tie breaker using their first beginner form. It was a close decision, and Katie ended up winning 2nd Place for Forms.
The MMASC continues to share their generosity with UGKA competitors, and both Katie and Scott greatly appreciated the support and fellowship offered.
April 25, 2009 update: UGKA competes in the American Bushido-Kai Karate Association Championships in Sand Springs, OK!
Mr. Soliday's UGKA was given a special invitation to compete in the American Bushido-Kai Karate Association (ABKA) Championships this weekend, held in Sand Springs, Oklahoma. The ABKA Championships are comprised almost entirely of the ABKA schools from across Oklahoma and Texas, and when all competitors assembled and were seated at the opening of the tournament, it certainly appeared to be the largest competition seen in the state!
The UGKA schools brought competitors from three of its schools - the Mr. Soliday's Sapulpa Institute of Karate; Mr. Scott Collins' Sand Springs Institute of Karate, and Katie Carr's Mannford Institute of Karate.
Nancie "Tiny" Longacre, 7TH DAN, competes in the Adult Women Black Belt Forms competition!
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, took 1st Place in Forms competition in a strong advanced division. After an initial tie for 1st Place Katie Carr competed with her first basic form to win the tiebreaker and topped the forms division! Katie also competed in Fighting, taking 3rd Place.
UGKA Instructor Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, with UGKA students Charli, Charity, Ian, and Amber (from left to right)
The UGKA Black Belt Competitors - Legendary Nancie "Tiny" Longacre, 7th DAN; Greg Partridge, 3rd DAN; Katie Carr, 2nd DAN
The UGKA team with their trophies!
April 18, 2009 update: UGKA wins at the Eureka Springs Classic Karate Tournament in Eureka Springs, Arkansas!
The UGKA was represented at the Eureka Springs Classic Karate Tournament in Eureka Springs, AR with the attendance and competition from Nancie "Tiny" Longacre, 7th DAN, Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, Scott Carr, Soliday Brown Belt, and tournament support and pictures provided by Leon Longacre, 7th DAN.
Nancie Longacre competed in the Adult Black Belt Forms competition, winning 1st Place. Although not successful, Nancie was honored to also be able to compete for tournament Grand Champion. Katie Carr competed in her Black Belt division winning 1st Place in Fighting and 2nd Place in Forms competition. Katie also was honored to assist in judging several divisions in the tournament, and extremely honored to be asked by Sensei Groves to assist in judging the Black Belt Grand Championships! Scott Carr competed in Forms winning 2nd Place, and took 4th Place in Weapons competition.
April 4, 2009 update: Mr. Soliday, Soliday Black Belts, and UGKA students attend and compete in the 2009 Oklahoma Nationals - Pearl of the Plains Karate Tournament in Tulsa, OK!
At Grandmaster Gilkey's 2009 Oklahoma Nationals - Pearl of the Plains Karate Tournament, Mr. Soliday, 9th DAN participated with Mr. Gilkey, 10th DAN in recognizing Mr. Howard Fields as 10th Degree. Also participating from the Wild Bunch Karate Association, Mr. Bill Briscoe, 9th DAN, and Mr. Bob Kinney, 9th DAN. Mr. Fields is a long time Japanese Goju Ryu Black Belt. He established his school and students on Tulsa's North Side during the formative years in the late 60's and early 70's, helping build the Tulsa area into one of the strongest regions of the country with Japanese Goju Ryu Karate, and the 2009 Oklahoma Nationals was a reunion of many of the Goju Black Belts, both peers and students during that time.
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, was also honored by Grandmaster Gilkey. Mr. Gilkey highlighted the accomplishments of Katie as a national champion, her years as a martial artist, and her opening her own karate school last year when she was only 15, the Mannford Institute of Karate. Mr. Gilkey additionally honored two other young martial artists and national champions, and along with Katie Carr, presented them with awards for their efforts.
The UGKA was well represented in competition awards in the 2009 Oklahoma Nationals! Nancie "Tiny" Longacre, 7th DAN, won 1st Place in Women's Black Belt Forms competition; Mr. Scott Collins, 7th DAN, won 2nd Place in Men's Black Belt Forms competition; Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, won 1st Place in Junior Black Belt Fighting and 3rd Place in Forms competition; Ashton Collins, Green Belt, won 1st Place in Women's Underbelt Fighting and 1st Place in Forms competition.
Mr. Darrell Maggard visits with Mr. Howard Fields after the ceremony. Mr. Maggard was Mr. Soliday's Sensei and founded the Sapulpa Institute of Karate.
Mr. Howard Fields visits with Katie Carr and asks her about her past tournament season, and her accomplishments.
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, is presented with an award from Grandmaster Gilkey for her accomplishments within martial arts!
Mr. Soliday honors Mr. Howard Fields during the ceremony recognizing Mr. Fields as 10th Degree in Japanese Goju Ryu Karate
The largest gathering of Japanese Goju Ryu Black Belts in many years, in addition to local area Black Belts participating in acknowledging, recognizing, and honoring Mr. Howard Fields, 10th DAN.
Nancie "Tiny" Longacre, 7th DAN, Mr. Leon Longacre, 7th DAN, Mr. Scott Collins, 7th DAN, and Mr. Ted Soliday, 9th DAN
March 28, 2009 update: American Karate Association honors UGKA members
Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, with Sensei Sharkey, AKA President, after receiving the 2008 National Championship Award for top fighter and top forms competitor for her black belt division in the AKA Southern Region.
Scott Carr, Soliday Purple Belt, with Sensei Sharkey, AKA President, after receiving the 2008 National Championship Award for top fighter and for third place in forms competition for his Men's advanced underbelt division in the AKA Southern Region.
The American Karate Associations' southern 2008 awards banquet was held in Mountain Home, Arkansas on March 28th. UGKA Instructor and Sensei of the Mannford Institute of Karate, Katie Carr, and Soliday Purple Belt Scott Carr, traveled to the AKA banquet to receive their 2008 national champion awards.
Sensei Groves, pictured with the UGKA members below, hosted the event. Awards to the UGKA members were presented by fellow Oklahoman, Grandmaster David Fishinghawk (pictured with Katie Carr below). AKA President, Sensei Sharkey, was on hand for the awards and festivities and the UGKA members were honored with being seated at the banquet table with him.
March 21, 2009 update: UGKA competes in the American Karate Association's American Open Karate Tournament in Locust Grove, Oklahoma!
Katie Carr's Mannford Institute of Karate competed in Mr. David Fishinghawk's American Open Karate Tournament in Locust Grove, Oklahoma. Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, competed as well and took 1st Place in Fighting, and 2nd Place in Forms competitions. Soliday Purple Belt Scott Carr took 1st Place in Fighting, 2nd Place in Forms, and 2nd Place in Weapons competition. Two students of Ms. Katie Carr also competed - In her very first tournament, White Belt Karley White took 1st Place in Forms and 3rd Place in Fighting! In her second tournament appearance, White Belt Charity Jones took 1st in Fighting, and 1st Place in Forms competition!
Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, advises one of her students, Karley White, as Assistant Instructor and Soliday Purple Belt Kassie Carr looks on.
Grandmaster Earl Gilkey poses for a picture with UGKA Instructor and Sensei Katie Carr.
March 3, 2009 update: Katie Carr's Mannford Institute of Karate Website!
UGKA Instructor and Soliday Black Belt Katie Carr's school in Mannford, Oklahoma - the Mannford Institute of Karate - now has a website up and available! You can find it at:
February 28, 2009 update: UGKA competitors win big at the Missouri Nationals Open Karate Tournament in Springfield, Missouri!
Soliday Black Belt Katie Carr, Soliday Purple Belt Scott Carr, and Soliday Green Belt Chelsea Boen made an impact at the Missouri Nationals this weekend winning in almost every division!
Chelsea Boen took 1st place amidst strong competition in Forms, as well as 3rd place in fighting. Katie Carr took 2nd place in fighting and was awarded Runner Up Grand Champion in adult Women's Black Belt Fighting. Scott Carr took 3rd place in weapons competition, 1st place in forms competition, and 3rd place in fighting.
It was great to see fellow Wild Bunch Black Belt Mr. Todd Brown, as well as watching him compete! Mr. Brown's TNT Martial Arts has been a strong member school within the Wild Bunch, and a great supporter of Mr. Soliday and the UGKA!
Mr. Soliday provides guidance and advice before forms competition begins!
Katie Carr, Soliday 2nd degree Black Belt, was awarded the Women Black Belt Runner Up Grand Champion for the Fighting Competition!
The Wild Bunch Karate Association was represented in Black Belt competition with Mr. Todd Brown, 3rd DAN, of TNT Martial Arts and of course by Katie Carr, 2nd DAN who competed for the first time in Adult Women's Black Belt competition.
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, competing in Women's Black Belt Forms
March 28, 2009 update: American Karate Association honors UGKA members
Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, with Sensei Sharkey, AKA President, after receiving the 2008 National Championship Award for top fighter and top forms competitor for her black belt division in the AKA Southern Region.
Scott Carr, Soliday Purple Belt, with Sensei Sharkey, AKA President, after receiving the 2008 National Championship Award for top fighter and for third place in forms competition for his Men's advanced underbelt division in the AKA Southern Region.
The American Karate Associations' southern 2008 awards banquet was held in Mountain Home, Arkansas on March 28th. UGKA Instructor and Sensei of the Mannford Institute of Karate, Katie Carr, and Soliday Purple Belt Scott Carr, traveled to the AKA banquet to receive their 2008 national champion awards.
Sensei Groves, pictured with the UGKA members below, hosted the event. Awards to the UGKA members were presented by fellow Oklahoman, Grandmaster David Fishinghawk (pictured with Katie Carr below). AKA President, Sensei Sharkey, was on hand for the awards and festivities and the UGKA members were honored with being seated at the banquet table with him.
March 21, 2009 update: UGKA competes in the American Karate Association's American Open Karate Tournament in Locust Grove, Oklahoma!
Katie Carr's Mannford Institute of Karate competed in Mr. David Fishinghawk's American Open Karate Tournament in Locust Grove, Oklahoma. Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, competed as well and took 1st Place in Fighting, and 2nd Place in Forms competitions. Soliday Purple Belt Scott Carr took 1st Place in Fighting, 2nd Place in Forms, and 2nd Place in Weapons competition. Two students of Ms. Katie Carr also competed - In her very first tournament, White Belt Karley White took 1st Place in Forms and 3rd Place in Fighting! In her second tournament appearance, White Belt Charity Jones took 1st in Fighting, and 1st Place in Forms competition!
Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, advises one of her students, Karley White, as Assistant Instructor and Soliday Purple Belt Kassie Carr looks on.
Grandmaster Earl Gilkey poses for a picture with UGKA Instructor and Sensei Katie Carr.
March 3, 2009 update: Katie Carr's Mannford Institute of Karate Website!
UGKA Instructor and Soliday Black Belt Katie Carr's school in Mannford, Oklahoma - the Mannford Institute of Karate - now has a website up and available! You can find it at:
February 28, 2009 update: UGKA competitors win big at the Missouri Nationals Open Karate Tournament in Springfield, Missouri!
Soliday Black Belt Katie Carr, Soliday Purple Belt Scott Carr, and Soliday Green Belt Chelsea Boen made an impact at the Missouri Nationals this weekend winning in almost every division!
Chelsea Boen took 1st place amidst strong competition in Forms, as well as 3rd place in fighting. Katie Carr took 2nd place in fighting and was awarded Runner Up Grand Champion in adult Women's Black Belt Fighting. Scott Carr took 3rd place in weapons competition, 1st place in forms competition, and 3rd place in fighting.
It was great to see fellow Wild Bunch Black Belt Mr. Todd Brown, as well as watching him compete! Mr. Brown's TNT Martial Arts has been a strong member school within the Wild Bunch, and a great supporter of Mr. Soliday and the UGKA!
Mr. Soliday provides guidance and advice before forms competition begins!
Katie Carr, Soliday 2nd degree Black Belt, was awarded the Women Black Belt Runner Up Grand Champion for the Fighting Competition!
The Wild Bunch Karate Association was represented in Black Belt competition with Mr. Todd Brown, 3rd DAN, of TNT Martial Arts and of course by Katie Carr, 2nd DAN who competed for the first time in Adult Women's Black Belt competition.
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, competing in Women's Black Belt Forms
February 27, 2009 update: Mr. Soliday attends the MMASC Awards Banquet honoring Soliday students!
Mr. Soliday pictured with Scott Carr, Soliday Purple Belt, while in the background Mr. Richard Osborn, Sr. of the MMASC announces.
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, pictured with MMASC President David Frazier after being inducted into the MMASC Hall of Fame.
Mr. Soliday attended the MMASC Awards Banquet to participate in the celebration of an incredible 2008 tournament season. UGKA Instructor and Sensei of the Mannford Institute of Karate, Katie Carr, was honored as the top fighter in the Junior Black Belt division in the 2008 season, as well as taking 5th overall in forms competition! Kassie Carr, Soliday Purple Belt, took 2nd Place in Fighting and 3rd Place in Forms competition in 2008. Chelsea Boen, Soliday Green Belt, took 3rd Place in Fighting and 2nd Place in Forms Competition overall for the 2008 tournament season!
Katie Carr was among those also honored to be inducted into the MMASC Hall of Fame for her overall contribution to martial arts as well as her accomplishments!
After the awards ceremony, the MMASC awarded door prizes - Kassie Carr won a bicycle and t-shirt, and Katie Carr won a gas card and a free oil change!
The MMASC has been extremely gracious as UGKA members have participated throughout the 2008 tournament season. The UGKA hopes to strengthen their relationship and their standing within the MMASC in 2009!
February 21, 2009 update: Chelsea Boen, Soliday Green Belt, honored at Oklahoma Karate Association Awards Banquet!
Chelsea Boen was officially recognized as the 2008 Oklahoma State Champion taking 1st Place in the 16-17 Year Old Beginner Division for Fighting and also 1st Place for Forms during the 2008 tournament season. Chelsea received a championship jacket, patches, and a plaque commemorating her achievement within the Oklahoma Karate Association!
Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, was on hand to represent Mr. Soliday and the UGKA, as well as support a special student. Katie Carr was a past Oklahoma State Champion (2006, 2007) and Chelsea Boen's achievement has meant Mr. Soliday has had State Champions in the Oklahoma Karate Association for the past three years!
February 2, 2009 update: Katie Carr, 2nd Dan, 2008 National Championship Season Highlights!
Katie Carr's 2008 Championship Season highlight video has been posted. Highlights feature tournament action from around Oklahoma, as well as Katie's fights through the American Karate Association tournaments leading up to and after the AKA Grand Nationals - Blugrass Nationals in Louisville, Kentucky, as well as her fights through the Midwest Martial Arts Association!
January 17, 2009 update: Katie Carr's Mannford Institute of Karate!
UGKA Black Belt Instructor Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, opened the Mannford Institute of Karate in July 2008. Classes are held every Monday night starting at 7pm at the Mannford Activity Center in Mannford, Oklahoma. Students of all ages are learning traditional Japanese Goju Ryu Karate from Ms. Carr as well as from her other instructors.
Katie Carr's Mannford Institute of Karate students are practicing for their upcoming rank test. Kassie Carr, Soliday Purple Belt, also helps instruct beginning students, and is shown below as she works with two beginning white belts.
Katie Carr also assists with instruction on Tuesday nights in Sapulpa at the Sapulpa Institute of Karate under Mr. Ted Soliday, 9th DAN, and along side Mr. Teddy Soliday, 3rd DAN.
December 23, 2008 update: Makenzie Hughes, Soliday White Belt, promoted to First Stripe!
Makenzie Hughes received her Rank Certificate for 9th KYU and her United Goju Karate Association membership certificate tonight from Mr. Ted Soliday, 9th DAN, and Mr. Teddy Soliday, 3rd DAN! Makenzie has been doing an excellent job and is working hard already towards her next rank test!
December 20, 2008 update: Soliday Purple Belt, Scott Carr, earns 2008 AKA National Championship Title
Scott Carr, Soliday Purple Belt, has been listed among the American Karate Association's Southern Region season title winners for 2008. Scott Carr is ranked 1st in his division in the Fighting competition, and 3rd in his division for Forms competition.
December 18, 2008 update: Mr. Soliday attends Black Belt testing at Larry Wells' Tae Kwon Do school in Tulsa!
Mr. Larry Wells, 7th DAN TKD, and also a first degree Soliday Black Belt, invited Mr. Soliday to attend his school's Black Belt testing event on Saturday, December 13, 2008. Mr. Soliday participated in the judging panel along with Ms. Nancie "Tiny" Longacre, 7th DAN. Also attending and assisting with sparring was Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN.
Mr. Wells' school is one of the stronger TKD schools in the Tulsa area, consistently turning out champion competitors at all levels. The Red Belts that were testing for Black were of very strong caliber, but not surprising considering their school. In addition, Mr. Wells' recognition of Mr. Soliday for his school was greatly appreciated. Mr. Soliday was pleased to be able to offer his thoughts and observations to the newly accomplished Black Belts.
December 17, 2008 update: Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, Soliday Black Belt and UGKA Instructor, earns 2008 National Championship Title from the American Karate Assocation!
The American Karate Association's Southern Region has posted their 2008 season title winners, and Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, has been listed as a 2008 National Champion! This is Katie's second year for being an AKA National Champion, as well as being the top Fighter in the Southern Region for her black belt division, and the top Forms competitor.
Katie's home town newspaper, the Mannford Eagle, has also recognized her accomplishments in an article in this week's paper (see link below).
November 21, 2008 update: Chelsea Boen, Soliday Green Belt, ranked 1st in the State for Forms Competition, as well as 1st in the State for Fighting by the Oklahoma Karate Association!
The Oklahoma Karate Association has posted their 2008 season point championship totals. The rankings can be seen at the following link...
Chelsea is currently ranked as the top fighter in the state for her division, as well as the top forms competitor for the 2008 OKA season! The OKA awards banquet will be the official presentation of the State Championship Titles - and it is usually held sometime after the beginning of the 2009 season.
Chelsea Boen after winning during an out-of-state karate tournament!
November 16, 2008 update: MMASC 2008 point rankings feature UGKA Blackbelt, Katie Carr, as well as Soliday students Chelsea Boen and Kassie Carr!
Katie Carr, Kassie Carr, and Chelsea Boen competing at a MMASC tournament in Springfield, Missouri during the 2008 season
The MMA Southern Conference posted their 2008 season point totals, and three UGKA members highlight the rankings! The rankings can be found at the following link...
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, UGKA Blackbelt and Instructor of the Mannford Institute of Karate is ranked 1st in Fighting in the MMA Southern Conference for 2008, and 6th in Forms for the season.
Kassie Carr, now a Soliday Purple Belt, is ranked 2nd in Fighting in the MMA Southern Conference season totals, and 3rd in Forms Competition for the year.
Chelsea Boen, Soliday Green Belt, is ranked 3rd in Fighting in the MMA Southern Conference rankings, and 2nd in Forms Competition for the season!
The MMASC Awards Banquet is scheduled for February 27th, 2009 in Springfield, Missouri at which time awards will officially be presented.
November 15, 2008 update: Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, posted as a featured competitor of the Midwest Martial Arts Association Southern Conference!
Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, was listed by the MMA Southern Conference as they posted their featured competitors for their upcoming 2009 season. Katie can be seen at the end of the competitor's bio at the following link...
November 8, 2008 update: Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, and Soliday Purple Belt, Scott Carr, compete at the American Karate Association's 2008 DragonFest Karate Tournament in Eureka Springs, Arkansas!
Scott Carr, Soliday Purple Belt, wins 1st Place in Fighting and 3rd Place in Forms Competition
AKA Southern Region and Tournament Promoter Sensei Groves graciously takes a moment to have a picture taken with Scott Carr
2007 American Karate Association National Champion, Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, competed at the final AKA tournament of the season - the 2008 DragonFest Karate Tournament, along with Soliday Purple Belt Scott Carr. Katie has been competing in AKA tournaments throughout the 2008 season with her sights set on another National Title for 2008! Scott Carr joined the American Karate Association for the 2008 season, and has been competing in the Intermediate/Advanced divisions in the hopes of making a strong showing towards a National Title win as well. This last tournament was a double points tournament, and will serve both of their point totals well to help them achieve their goals.
Katie Carr won 1st Place in Fighting, and 1st Place in Forms Competition which allowed her the honor to compete for the Tournament Grand Champion, although it alluded her this time.
Scott took 3rd Place in Forms Competition amidst a strong division, but won 1st Place in Fighting!
Katie was very honored to be asked to judge numerous divisions include the Junior Black Belt extreme forms, musicals, and later in the tournament she was asked to judge some of the Grand Champion divisions.
Below, dominates a male second degree blackbelt in fighting competition...
November 1, 2008 update: UGKA competes in the 1st Annual Oklahoma Goju Ryu Karate Tournament!
The 1st Annual Oklahoma Goju Ryu Karate Tournament was held in Pawhuska, Oklahoma by Mr. Earl Gilkey, 10th DAN
on November 1st!
Invitations were made to all of
the Japanese Goju Ryu Karate schools throughout the state. Three UGKA schools responded to the invitation with Mr. Soliday's Sapulpa Institute of Karate, Mr. Scott Collin's Sand Springs Institute of Karate, and Ms. Katie Carr's Mannford Institute of Karate all sending students to compete!
For many of our competitors, this was their very first tournament and all competitors gave it 100% with many of them bringing home trophies or medals in acknowledgment of their hard work!
Damien, Yellow Belt from Sapulpa Institute of Karate, in one of his many matches!
Brett in the Pink Gi, White Belt from Mannford Institute of Karate, showed herself to be a strong fighter!
October 18, 2008 update: UGKA Schools Win Big at the 18th Annual Shotokan Tiger's Weapons of the Night Karate Tournament in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma!
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN - Sensei of the Mannford Institute of Karate, along with Mr. Scott Collins, 7th DAN - Sensei of the Sand Springs Institute of Karate both brought students to compete in this year's Weapons of the Night Tournament!
Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN with her students competing in their first karate tournament event! Also pictured is Ms. Carr's assistant instructor, Purple Belt Kassie Carr!
Two UGKA schools had a strong showing at the The Weapons of the Night 18th Annual Shotokan Tiger's Karate Tournament in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma! Mr. Scott Collins, 7th DAN, of the Sand Springs Institute of Karate brought three students to compete in the tournament. Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, of the Mannford Institute of Karate brought four students to compete, in addition to Katie Carr competing herself!
Katie Carr took 1st Place in Forms Competition as well as 1st Place in the Fighting Competition. Katie also waited for the male advanced division to complete its brackets and she took on the winner of that bracket in an exhibition fight! As usual, it was filled with hard hitting and hard kicking action!
Each of the instructors of these UGKA schools are Soliday Black Belts, and continue the Soliday style of teaching traditional Japanese Goju Ryu Karate. By the end of the tournament, both UGKA schools brought home trophies or recognition with their respective students competing hard within their divisions!
Both Mannford and Sand Springs schools' competitors and Sensei's await the start of the tournament!
September 27, 2008 update: UGKA Blackbelt Katie Carr, 2nd DAN wins at the AKA's Natural State Classic!
Katie Carr, 2007 American Karate Association National Champion, returned to the Natural State Classic and won 1st Place in Fighting as well as 1st Place in Forms Competition. Katie was able to have an exhibition fight with one of the adult black belts from Joey Perry's Elite Martial Arts team, and Katie also would go on to compete in the 12-17 Black Belt Grand Champion competition!
Soliday Purple Belt, Scott Carr, also competed in the Natural State Classic. Because of a recent injury, Scott only competed in Forms Competition, taking 2nd Place.
Shihan Keith Bly of Bly's Martial Arts Academy in Jacksonville, Arkansas, one of the Promoters for the Natural State Classic and a strong contributer to the AKA, was nice enough to have his picture taken with Katie Carr, 2nd DAN. Mr. Bly had some generous comments to share with Katie about his observations of her as he's watched her competing within the American Karate Association. Katie was very thankful for the feedback, and appreciative of the time Mr. Bly took to speak with her!
Katie also had the opportunity to briefly visit with both Mr. Bly and the other promoter of the Natural State Classic, and one of those within the AKA that has offered her support and encouragement, Mr. Jamie Yowell, 4th DAN of Yowell Karate in Jacksonville, Arkansas.
UGKA Blackbelt Katie Carr with her 1st Place trophies
Katie Carr with AKA Tournament Promoter, Shihan Keith Bly
Did she not agree with the judge?? Katie Carr takes on one of the judges in a Blackbelt exhibition match!
September 23, 2008 update: White Belt testing at the Sapulpa Institute of Karate!
White Belt testing for Soliday White Belts Damian and Karysn took place tonight at Mr. Soliday's Sapulpa Institute of Karate. UGKA Black Belt Instructor Katie Carr put both of the white belts through their basics and verified they had competently aquired all of the skills necessary for their respective promotions. Karsyn was promoted by Mr. Soliday and received her second green stripe! Damian was promoted by Mr. Soliday to Yellow Belt! Both students are showing themselves well equipped and able to move on towards their next rank.
In other areas, Soliday Purple Belt Steve Lemley taught beginner white belts their basics. Soliday Green Belt Chelsea Boen faced off against Katie Carr, 2nd Dan. Purple Belt Christian faced off against Green Belt Chase, and of course both Karsyn and Damian faced each other as part of their test.
September 20, 2008 update: Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, competes in the MMASC's Midwest Rumble 2008!
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN - Soliday Blackbelt and UGKA Instructor at the Mannford Institute of Karate, traveled to Springfield Missouri to compete in the MMASC's 2008 Midwest Rumble! The MMASC has continued their gracious hospitality towards making the UGKA a welcome part of their tournaments as well as members within their association. Katie Carr was greeted by both Grandmaster Osborn Sr, 9th DAN, as well as Mr. Osborn Jr, 7th DAN who both were nice enough to inquire about Katie's school and her students.
Katie Carr was one of six Blackbelts competing in Forms Competition. The Forms competition within the MMASC is among the strongest Katie has been in, with all styles exhibiting excellent technique and power. Katie tied for third place, and in the subsequent tie-breaker, was able to win the 3rd Place Trophy against a very accomplished competitor!
Katie Carr competed in the Fighting Competition, and in a close match took 3rd Place. Katie also fought an exhibition match in the Adult Women's Blackbelt division, which she also won. After Katie's competitions finished up, MMASC Promoter and head of TigerTKD, Mr. Richard Osborn Jr was nice enough to have his picture taken with Katie!
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, won 3rd Place in Forms, 3rd Place in Fighting
Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, with MMASC Promoter Mr. Richard Osborn Jr, 7th DAN
September 13, 2008 update: UGKA Black Belt - Katie Carr, 2nd DAN, wins at the Tulsa National Kung Fu Tournament!
Katie Carr, Soliday Black Belt and instructor of the Mannford Institute of Karate, competed in Sifu Ray Hildreth's Tulsa National Kung Fu Tournament held in Tulsa, Oklahama. Katie Carr took 1st Place in Forms competition as well as 1st Place in Fighting. Different from point sparring competition, the fighting competition in this Kung Fu tournament is continuous fighting with competitors needing to win 2 out of 3 rounds. Each round is 2 minutes each.
August 30, 2008 update: Mr. Soliday asked to present a karate demonstration at the Bristow Car Show!
At Bristow's Car Show event, the City of Bristow opens up the downtown streets for its annual car show. This year, the organizers of the show asked Mr. Soliday provide a demonstration of karate as one of the events and activities for vistors. Joining Mr. Soliday for the demonstration was Ms. Katie Carr, 2nd DAN and Soliday Purple Belt, Scott Carr. Ms. Katie Carr demonstrated self defense against the attack of Scott Carr, while Mr. Soliday showed the crowds numerous self defense techniques against Scott Carr's attack. Katie Carr then demonstrated a kata for the crowd and then again slowly as Mr. Soliday explained each technique.
August 16, 2008 update: Mr. Soliday attends traditional Japanese Kendo event!
Mr. Soliday with Mr. Michael Lindsay, 1st DAN
Mr. Soliday attended the Tulsa's first traditional Japanese Kendo event, after special invitation from Mr. Michael Lindsay, 1st DAN. Mr. Lindsay has the Shin Sou Fu Kan - the Tulsa Kendo Club, which was hosting a traditional Japanese Kendo event. Mr. Lindsay has had the Tulsa Kendo Club under the guidance of Sensei Brian Mosley, 4th DAN from Oklahoma City.
The event featured team competition between four teams comprised of members from around the state, and showcased the necessary skills for combat. Mr. Soliday enjoyed the event, and had a great time observing the care of another traditional Japanese martial art.
Mr. Michael Lindsay's Tulsa Kendo Club can be found at
Tonight, two UGKA black belts tested for their second degree in
traditional Japanese Goju Ryu. Mr. Scott Collins, 7th DAN's black belt, Peter Wackerman, successfully passed all requirements and was awarded his second degree by his Sensei as well as UGKA Grandmaster Mr. Ted Soliday, 9th DAN. Ms. Katie Carr was also tested. She passed all requirements and was awarded her second degree by her Sensei, Mr. Ted Soliday as well as recognized on her certificate by Mr. Scott Collins, 7th DAN.
Katie Carr promoted to 2nd DAN!
Peter Wackerman promoted to 2nd DAN!
July 24, 2008 update: UGKA competitors win at the MMASC's Battle for the Queen City Karate Tournament!
The UGKA had a strong showing at the most recent MMASC event - the Battle for the Queen City Karate Tournament in Springfield, Missouri! Representing the UGKA was Mr. Greg Whited, 3rd DAN from the Sand Springs Institute of Karate, Ms. Katie Carr, 1st DAN from the Mannford Institute of Karate, and Soliday Green Belts Kassie Carr and Chelsea Boen from the Sapulpa Institute of Karate! The host and promoter, Mr. Richard Osborn, Jr., 7th DAN, made our competitors feel very welcome. The MMASC has continued to warmly reach out and encourage participation from anyone affliated with Mr. Soliday, and their efforts are greatly appreciated! The UGKA competitors found strong competition at all levels as they battled for their wins across divisions.
Kassie Carr, Soliday Green Belt, competes and wins 1st Place in Forms Competition, and 2nd Place in Fighting!
Kassie Carr has the honor of competing against all other 1st Place winners for the underbelt Tournament Grand Champion!
Chelsea Boen, Soliday Green Belt, wins 2nd Place in Fighting and 2nd Place in Forms Competition!
Mr. Greg Whited, 3rd DAN, wins 3rd Place in the Fighting Competition against strong competition in the Blackbelt Men's Heavyweight Division.
Ms. Katie Carr, 1st DAN, wins 2nd Place in Fighting Competition and 4th Place in Forms Competition against a large group of Black Belts!
July 22, 2008 update: Soliday students prepare for upcoming testing
Tuesday night class at the Sapulpa Booker T. Washington Activity Center featured Mr. Soliday getting his students into shape and ready for an upcoming belt test. Showing his students some critical and important movements, Mr. Soliday worked with each group of students, assisted by Black Belt Instructors Mr. Richard Ash and Ms. Katie Carr.
Through hard work and consistent practice, Mr. Soliday's students receive a robust understanding of traditional Japanese Goju Ryu Karate. Students come away with a style and discipline somewhat unique!
July 19, 2008 update: Mr. Soliday attends the 14th Annual Whirlwind Classic
Mr. Soliday attended Mr. Larry Wells' 14th Annual Whirlwind Classic karate tournament held in Tulsa, Oklahoma. While Mr. Wells is long known for his school and teaching of Tae Kwon Do, he had originally started his martial arts career in Japanese Goju Ryu Karate where he had achieved a brown belt rank. For quite some time, Mr. Wells had resumed his Goju Ryu training under Mr. Soliday, and during the tournament, he received his promotion to Black Belt from Mr. Soliday!
For the tournament, Mr. Soliday assisted with Black Belt and Grand Championship judging. Also competing in the tournament was Katie Carr, 1st DAN, as well as Soliday green belts Steve Lemley and Chelsea Boen!
June 28, 2008 update: 26th Annual Wild Bunch Summer Camp
Mr. Soliday attended the Wild Bunch Summer Camp along with Katie Carr, 1st DAN. Mr. Soliday participated in the opening ceremonies and was introduced by Bob Kinney, 10th DAN and co-founder of the Wild Bunch Karate Association. After the opening ceremony, the Wild Bunch Blackbelts bowed in the particpants in this years summer camp and the various training sessions began.
Katie Carr participated in sessions to continue to hone her skills and took part in "High Flying Kicks", "Sparring Techniques", and "Fighting Strategies". A Wild Bunch tradition, at the end of the camp the members of the Wild Bunch get together to shout "Hoya" to conclude their time together. Mr. Bill Briscoe, 10th DAN and co-founder of the Wild Bunch Karate Association, was kind enough to have his picture taken together with Katie.
Mr. Soliday introduced at Opening Ceremonies by Mr. Kinney and Mr. Briscoe
Taking a moment during the sessions - Mr. Bill Briscoe, Mr. Ted Soliday, Mr. John Pendell, and Mr. Bob Lisko
June 26, 2008 update: Katie Carr, 1st DAN, opening Mannford Institute of Karate
Soliday Blackbelt Katie Carr explains and illustrates fighting techniques
Katie Carr, Soliday Blackbelt, is starting classes in Mannford every Monday at 7pm beginning Monday, July 7, 2008 located at the Mannford Activity Center. Katie will also continue to assist with instruction each Tuesday night at the Sapulpa Institute of Karate.
Katie and her new classes were a feature article this week in the Mannford Eagle.
Shirley, a Soliday white belt, received her first green stripe tonight from Mr. Soliday during Tuesday night class! Shirley also officially joined the United Goju Karate Association and received her association certificate and patch.
June 22, 2008 update: Katie Carr, 1st DAN, competes at the American Karate Association Grand Nationals
Ms. Katie Carr, Soliday Blackbelt, competing in Forms Competition
Soliday Blackbelt, Katie Carr, traveled to Louisville, Kentucky to compete in the American Karate Association's Grand Nationals and Bluegrass Nationals Karate Tournament. This tournament was combined this year as the two tournaments combined following the loss and passing of Ken Eubanks', founder of the Bluegrass Nationals. This was the largest tournament Katie has competed in, with 30 rings of action and the largest division of competitors she has faced to date. Katie competed against more than 15 blackbelts and while she did not place in the Forms Competition, she took 5th Place in Fighting Competition. The opponent who beat her went on to take 1st Place. Katie's 5th Place accomplishment will help earn her points in her 2008 efforts within the AKA Southern Region.
During the final evening ceremonies, Katie got a chance to watch Sideswipe, the AKA martial arts group who found the spotlight in the television show "America's Got Talent" and most recently was signed to an ongoing show in Las Vegas.
For all affiliated UGKA schools and students - The Wild Bunch Association is holding their annual summer camp! This is a great time to spend some quality time working on martial arts techniques including self defense techniques, sparring drills, and weapons from experts within the Wild Bunch Association! The UGKA is proud to be part of the Wild Bunch, and the summer camp always offers excellent opportunities.
If you are interested in going, please let us know so we can coordinate!
May 19, 2008 update: Mr. Clayton Badger promoted to 6th DAN!
On Monday night at the Japanese Goju School of Karate in Drumright, Oklahoma, Mr. Soliday promoted Mr. Clayton Badger to 6th DAN! On hand for the presentation of the certificate of rank and a special bestowment of a 6th degree belt was Mr. Leon Longacre, 7th DAN, and Mrs. Nancie "Tiny" Longacre, 7th DAN. The Longacres also recognized Mr. Badger's accomplishment of rank. Other UGKA black belts in attendance were Mr. Greg Partridge, 2nd DAN, Mr. Sam White, 1st DAN, and Ms. Katie Carr, 1st DAN.
Mr. Badger's Monday night class was also present and joined in congratulating their Sensei! Mr. Badger and his Japanese Goju School of Karate have been a long-time member school of the UGKA. In addition to Mr. Badger, Mr. Sam White also assists and provides instruction for the school.
May 17, 2008 update: UGKA students win at the Showdown At B.A. Corral Karate Tournament!
Mr. Scott Collins, 7th DAN brought students from his UGKA school in Sand Springs to compete in the Shotokan Tiger's 2008 tournament! Collins' students swept the tournament winning 1st Place awards in their competitions!
Ms. Janis Fraley presented this tournament as the Fastest karate tournament in the state in 2008 - and lived up to that promise with a 10:30am start time, and all divisions completing by just after 12 noon!
Katie Carr, 1st DAN, enjoyed heavy competition in her divisions. While Katie has been attending more out-of-state tournaments than local tournaments of late, she greatly enjoys Ms. Fraley's tournament. Especially the fact that male and female competitors must compete against each other in both forms and fighting up through the age of 17. Katie took 1st place in Forms and after fierce rounds of fighting through her Fighting bracket, she added a 1st Place in Fighting trophy as well!
Katie was also very pleased to have had some time to visit with Ms. Fraley! She had some kind and generous words for Katie which were greatly appreciated. Katie was delighted to have her picture taken with Ms. Fraley!
Katie's final fight against an excellent male black belt. This fight has all of the hard hitting and hard kicking action you have come to expect from Katie!
In this vid, Katie gets hit very hard in the face, basically knocking her out on her feet for a moment. She manages to hang on and wins a tie breaker for 1st Place!
May 13, 2008 update: Soliday Brown Belt Michael Sanders promoted to 1st KYU!
Michael Sanders, Soliday Brown Belt, was presented tonight with his certificate of promotion to the rank of 1st KYU. Mr. Sanders completed his testing requirements previously on April 29, 2008 - and was awarded his certificate after class tonight where he assisted in leading the underbelt ranks through their exercises and movements. Mr. Sanders originally started his Japanese Goju Ryu instruction under Mr. Scott Collins, 7th DAN, in Sand Springs until he was a Green Belt at which point he continued his instruction with Mr. Soliday. On hand for the presentation of Mr. Sanders' certificate by Mr. Soliday were Soliday black belt and instructor Mr. Teddy Soliday, 3rd DAN, and Ms. Katie Carr, 1st DAN.
May 4, 2008 update: Katie Carr, 1st DAN - 2007 competition highlight video
May 3, 2008 update: Soliday Black Belt, Katie Carr 1st DAN, wins at the MMASC's 4-State Brawl!
Katie Carr, Soliday Black Belt, traveled to Neosho, Missouri to attend Jim and Bob Moore's 4-State Brawl karate tournament. Katie took 1st Place in Fighting and although she had strong competition amongst a black belt competitors in the Forms competition, she won 4th place!
She also had the pleasure of visiting briefly with Mr. Jim Riggs. Mr. Riggs was generous enough to have his picture taken with Katie.
April 29, 2008 update: UGKA belt testing tonight at the Sapulpa Institute of Karate!
Mr. Soliday awards rank to those students who successfully tested
Special guest Black Belt, Mr. Gary Boyd, 9th DAN, poses for a pic with Ms. Katie Carr, 1st DAN
UGKA students tested tonight at the Sapulpa Institute of Karate. Mr. Scott Collins, 7th DAN, and Mr. Gary Boyd, 9th DAN, were visiting Black Belts who assisted in the judging of the white, green, and brown belt students who were testing for their stripes. Mr. Collins has a Goju Ryu school on Monday nights in Sand Springs. Mr. Boyd is a Consulting Director of the UGKA.
Four white belt students, five green belt students, and one brown belt student completed testing for their belt stripe rank and were examined on their katas, self-defense, and fighting skills.
April 12, 2008 update: Mr. Soliday and UGKA members compete at the Pearl of the Plain's Karate Tournament in Tulsa.
Mr. Ted Soliday along with UGKA Black Belts (Mr. Ash, Mr. Partridge, Mr. Anderson, and Ms. Katie Carr) and UGKA competitors attend the Pearl of the Plains karate tournament in Tulsa, Oklahoma on April 12, 2008. Mr. Soliday lent a hand in judging numerous black belt divisions and Soliday competitors came away with numerous awards, with one competitor sweeping both their entered divisions - Chelsea Boen, Soliday yellow belt, took 1st Place in Forms Competition and 1st Place in Fighting! Others receiving awards - Steve Lemely: 1st Place, Fighting and 2nd Place, Forms. Katie Carr: 1st Place, Forms.
Everyone else performed very well, especially against a large amount of competition in some of the divisions! This was a great turn out for UGKA competitors and a solid showing at a big tournament.
Mr. Soliday, UGKA black belts, and the UGKA competitors
Soliday Black Belt and National Champion Katie Carr competes and wins 1st Place in Junior Black Belt Forms at the Pearl of the Plains tournament
April 5, 2008 update: Katie Carr, 1st DAN, wins at MMASC's Martial Artist Open!
Katie Carr competed today in Mr. Kevin Luttrell's Martial Artist Open in Springfield, Missouri. The Martial Artist Open tournament is MMASC rated, and Katie did very well. Although she did not place in Forms competition, her kata was intense and demonstrated her capabilities well. After her Forms competition, Katie was asked to assist in judging other divisions. Katie's Fighting competition went quite well, with Katie winning 1st Place.
Katie was also very pleased to have Jeri "Fists of Fury" Sitzes, from the WCL Oklahoma Destroyers, attend the tournament and help cheer her on! Ms. Sitzes is an inspiration to Katie, and she was very grateful.
Mr. Richard Osborn, Jr was very welcoming of Katie, taking some time to come over and encourage her. He was also kind enough to have his picture taken with Katie!
March 29, 2008 update: American Karate Association honors Soliday Black Belt!
Ms. Katie Carr, 1st DAN, attended the AKA Southern Region awards banquet where she was honored as a 2007 National Champion. Mr. John Sharkey, Jr. attended the banquet, as well as expressed his appreciation for the promoters of the AKA Southern Region.
Sensei Groves offered a nice story about Katie's Grand Championship win earlier in the season before presenting Katie with her award plaque and award jacket. Katie was quite pleased, and was happy that she was able to get her picture taken with Sensei Groves, the Fishinghawks, and Mr. Yowell.
March 15, 2008 update: Soliday students compete at the American Karate Association's American Karate Open Tournament in Locust Grove, OK!
Ms. Katie Carr, 1st DAN, and Scott Carr, Green Belt, competed in Locust Grove, OK at the American Karate Open. This was perhaps the largest turn out for the event in Locust Grove that we have seen, and the event location was packed with spectators and competitors. As such, the competition in each division ran deep with many schools and competitors attending from various states. Katie Carr took 2nd Place in Fighting, and Scott Carr took 3rd Place in Forms competition and 2nd Place in Fighting.
March 1, 2008 update: Soliday students win at the Missouri Nationals!
Mr. Soliday was made very welcome at the Missouri Nationals, and his students had an excellent time competing! Mr. Soliday had a chance to visit with Goju USA Grandmaster David Box, as well as take part in Black Belt event judging. Ms. Katie Carr, 1st DAN, took 4th Place in Forms competition, placing over five other blackbelts! Katie also took 1st Place in Fighting, and was happy to compete in an exhibition match. Kassie Carr took 1st Place in Forms competition, and 3rd Place in Fighting - Chelsea Boen took 1st Place in Forms competition, and 3rd Place in Fighting! With their 1st Place wins, both Kassie and Chelsea had the opportunity to compete for Grand Champion, which was quite an honor! Grandmaster Box was also kind enough to pose for a picture with Katie.
Mr. Soliday with Goju USA Grandmaster David Box!
February 29, 2008 update: Mr. Soliday and students travel to the Missouri Nationals Finals Open Karate Tournament
Mr. Soliday with Mr. Osborn Sr., 8th DAN
Mr. Soliday and Ms. Katie Carr, 1st DAN, along with Soliday students Scott Carr, Kassie Carr, and Chelsea Boen arrived in Springfield, Missouri on Friday for
the MMASC Awards Banquet, attending at the invitation of Mr. Richard Osborn, Sr, 8th DAN. The MMASC honored their award winners for last year, and also held a door prize drawing with a number of great prizes. Both Chelsea Boen and Katie Carr were winners, which was a nice surprise! Tomorrow morning is the tournament, and everyone is excited to be in Springfield to compete!
February 25, 2008 update: Mr. Soliday promotes Scott Collins to 7th DAN!
Mr. Ted Soliday, 9th DAN, attended the Monday night class
of longtime Soliday Black Belt, Mr. Scott Collins. Mr. Collins recently
revived his Sand Springs Goju Ryu Karate School which is held in the Sand Springs Community Center. Attending the promotion event were Nancie "Tiny" Longacre, 7th DAN, and Mr. Leon Longacre, 7th DAN. Mr. Soliday
observed Mr. Collins' class in action as they practiced sparring and
self defense.
February 23,2008 update: Mr. Soliday attends Chuck Norris' World Combat League!
Mr. Ted Soliday attended the World Combat League's Eastern Conference event on Saturday afternoon - along with Katie Carr, 1st DAN and
Soliday students Scott Carr, Kassie Carr, and Chelsea Boen. Mr. Soliday had the opportunity to visit with the Coach of the Oklahoma Destroyers, Dale "Apollo" Cook. Mr. Soliday also visited with Mr. Larry Wells, and had the opportunity to say hello and shake the hand of Chuck Norris.
Soliday Black Belt, Thomas "Thunderkick" Longacre, 3rd DAN, led the way for the Oklahoma Destroyers, with two incredible victories in front of a packed house at the Expo Pavilion!
February 9, 2008 update: Oklahoma Karate Association honors Soliday Black Belt, Katie Carr
Katie Carr, 1st DAN, was presented with the 2007 State Champion title at the Oklahoma Karate Association Awards Ceremony held on Saturday in Oklahoma City. Katie received an awards plaque, a 2007 State Champion gear bag, and a 2007 State Champion jacket for her accomplishments representing Mr. Ted Soliday, 9th DAN, as well as representing traditional Japanese Goju Ryu Karate across the State of Oklahoma at OKA tournaments.
January 23, 2008 update: Advanced class held Wednesday nights at 8pm
Every Wednesday night at Ovations on Water Street, an Advanced
Class is held beginning immediately after the Beginners class. The Beginners
Class is held from 7pm, and beginning at 8pm is the Advanced Class. Mr. Soliday provides more personalized advance instruction to those Black Belts
who are continuing their efforts towards their next rank, as well as providing Black Belts who wish to refresh their skills and knowledge an opportunity to be able to focus and refine their current levels of experience.
January 19, 2008 update: Soliday student Chelsea Boen and Soliday Black Belt
Katie Carr win at the 2008 Kick-off Tournament for the Oklahoma Karate Association!
Chelsea Boen, Soliday white belt, took 1st Place in Fighting and 1st Place in Forms competition in the 16-17 year old Beginners Division at the Oklahoma Karate Association Tournament in Purcell, Oklahoma. Katie Carr, 1st DAN, took 2nd Place in Fighting and 2nd Place in Forms competition amidst a large group of competitors. The OKA January Kick-off tournament is a double points tournament, providing twice the normal points awarded for championship wins for those competitors who are OKA members. At the end of the year, the OKA awards their state titles for the champions of the year. The OKA 2007 Awards Banquet has been set for February 9, 2008 where Soliday Black Belt Katie Carr, 1st DAN will be awarded her titles as 2007 State Champion.
January 13, 2008 update: Katie Carr, 1st DAN, named 2007 American Karate Association National Champion!
Katie Carr received the title of 2007 National Champion after being awarded 1st Place in Fighting and 1st Place in Forms for competition in 2007 in the 13 – 14 year old Advanced division by the American Karate Association (AKA) Southern Region. Katie is a member of the AKA and competed for the National Championship titles with her championship wins in National AKA tournaments throughout the year. Each tournament championship earns points towards the end of the year titles given by the AKA.
In addition to her numerous tournament championships, Katie's other titles include:
2007 Oklahoma State Champion - Oklahoma Karate Association
2006 Oklahoma State Champion - Oklahoma Karate Association
2007 Grand Champion - Inferno Martial Arts Summer Supershow
2006 Amateur Champion - Sport Karate Amateur International
The AKA 2007 National Champions list can be found under the Points Standing link at
See Soliday Black Belt - Thomas "Thunderkick" Longacre, 3rd DAN, in action with Chuck Norris' World Combat League team - the Oklahoma Destroyers!
On December 14th, Chuck Norris' World Combat League is coming to Tulsa, Oklahoma!
Soliday Black Belt Thomas "Thunderkick" Longacre, 3rd DAN, will be leading the Oklahoma
Destroyers in action in their Home town of Tulsa! This is the best opportunity to see and support
the Oklahoma Destroyers who will face off against the Denver Fury in fast paced, hard hitting, hard kicking action!
December 3, 2007 update: Katie Carr, 1st DAN, named 2007 State Champion!
Katie Carr received the title of 2007 State Champion after being awarded 1st Place in Fighting and 2nd Place in Forms for competition in 2007 in the 14 – 15 year old Advanced division by the Oklahoma Karate Association (OKA). Katie is also a 2006 State Champion with 1st Place in Fighting and 2nd Place in Forms. Katie is a member of the OKA and competed for the State Championship titles with her championship wins in OKA tournaments across Oklahoma throughout the year. Each tournament championship earns points towards the end of the year titles given by the OKA.
In addition to her numerous tournament championships, Katie's other titles include:
2007 Grand Champion - Inferno Martial Arts Summer Supershow
2006 Amateur Champion - Sport Karate Amateur International
The OKA 2007 State Championship list can be found at
December 1, 2007 update: Soliday's Sapulpa Institute of Karate makes strong
showing at the American Karate Association's last tournament of 2007!
Soliday black belts Nancie Longacre, 7th DAN and Katie Carr, 1st DAN
competed in the black belt competition at the AKA's DragonFest 2007 tournament in Eureka Springs.
Soliday students also competing included Scott Carr, Green Belt; Kassie Carr, Green Belt; and Chelsea Boen, White Belt - two stripes. In addition, Mr. Leon Longacre, 7th DAN, provided tactical support for the competitors as well as took video of the event. Susan Carr, Soliday Yellow Belt, took photos of the competition.
A possible first for the Sapulpa Institute of Karate was competing in the Team Forms
competition. Kassie Carr and Chelsea took 2nd Place for their Creative Goju Form!
Soliday Tournament Results:
Nancie Longacre - 3rd Place Forms
Katie Carr - 2nd Place Forms, 2nd Place Fighting
Scott Carr - 1st Place Fighting
Kassie Carr - 2nd Place Forms, 2nd Place Team Forms
Chelsea Boen - 2nd Place Forms, 2nd Place Fighting, 2nd Place Team Forms
November 10, 2007 update: Mr. Soliday and students attend the ABKA's Missions Karate Tournament!
Mr. Soliday attended and judged at the ABKA's latest tournment, held
at Cornerstone Church in Sand Springs. Also attending and competing were Soliday Black Belts Miss Katie Carr, and Mr. Greg Partridge, 2nd DAN.
Students in attendance were
Michael Sanders, Brown Belt; Christian Porter, Green Belt; and Chase Wickham, Green Belt.
Providing key tactical strategy, encouragement, and support was Mr. Leon Longacre, 7th DAN.
Soliday Tournament Results:
Katie Carr - 3rd Place Forms, 2nd Place Fighting
Michael Sanders - 3rd Place Forms, 2nd Place Fighting
Christian Porter - 2nd Place Forms, 2nd Place Fighting
Chase Wickham - 3rd Place Forms, 3rd Place Fighting
November 3, 2007 update: Katie Carr competes in Gilkey's Double Elimination Karate Tournament!
Soliday Black Belts Katie Carr, and Alan Anderson, 2nd DAN, both attended and judged
at Mr. Gilkey's Annual Double Elimination Karate Tournament in Wynona, Oklahoma. This was Katie's first
tournament as a judge, and she did an excellent job judging several divisions.
Katie also competed against a Gilkey black belt in a hard hitting, hard kicking match. Since it was double
elimination, it was double the action and excitement. While Katie took 2nd Place, she gained some valuable
experience against a more advanced opponent.
October 30, 2007 update: White Belt testing and promotion!
With Mr. Soliday having more new students joining the Sapulpa Institute of Karate,
the underbelt testing has picked up a bit. Soliday students Chelsea and Malakai both tested for
their second stripe on their White Belt this week. Both were successful and
were promoted.
Mr. Soliday awarded Chelsea and Malakai their stripes, and UGKA Black Belt instructors Mr. Teddy Soliday and Miss Katie Carr were both kind enough to pose
for pics with the newly promoted Soliday White Belts!
October 10, 2007 update: New video!
Newly uploaded video - Katie Carr's competition in the "Bad to the Bone" Karate Tournament
last weekend, hosted by the Shotokan Tigers.
October 9, 2007 update: U.S. Marine and Soliday Black Belt, Eric Jamison, pays a visit to
the Sapulpa Institute of Karate!
Eric Jamison, 1st DAN Goju, graduated from his training in the U.S. Marine Corps.
Eric stopped by with his father, former Soliday student Larry Jamison, to pay a visit to everyone
during our Tuesday evening karate class.
It was a great pleasure to see Eric, as many have been
thinking of him and wondering how he has been. We look forward to the time when we see him
next! Eric is going on to his next training where he may have an opportunity to use his
Goju Black Belt in helping instruct Marines in martial arts!
October 8, 2007 update: The Showdown at Frontier City has been cancelled!
We received word today that "The Showdown" karate tournament originally scheduled for October 13th
has been cancelled. For those who Pre-Registered, Frontier City has indicated they would
be mailing back your check.
October 6, 2007 update: Katie Carr sweeps the Shotokan Tigers' "Bad to the Bone"
karate tournament in Broken Arrow
Katie Carr takes 1st Place in Forms and 1st Place in Fighting at the 17th Annual Tournament of Youth
Karate Tournament, hosted by the Shotokan Tigers. This year's theme was "Bad to the Bone" and trophies were various
Pirate-related objects and treasures.
October 2, 2007 update: Upcoming tournament October 13th for UGKA members
The Sapulpa Institute of Karate, as well as UGKA members are encouraged to attend the October 13th Showdown Karate Championships
to be held at the Frontier City amusement park in Oklahoma City. To attend, you must pre-register with a postmarked envelope no later than
Friday, October 5th!
This is an excellent tournament to attend... it is $30 to compete in a single event, $35 for two or more events. Price of tournament includes
the cost of admission to Frontier City, and participants may enjoy the park the remainder of the day. Spectator cost is $16 which covers the
tournament and the day in the park. There is a parking cost of $6 per vehicle.
Anyone wishing to participate but needing a ride, please email Scott Carr for
arrangements.
September 29, 2007 update: Katie Carr wins at the Natural State Classie Karate Tournament!
Katie Carr, Soliday Black Belt, traveled to Jacksonville, Arkansas (just north of Little Rock) to
compete in the American Karate Association's 2nd Annual Natural State Classic.
This was a larger tournament, and
there were many Black Belts representing a large variety of styles of martial arts. As the AKA is a national organization,
competitors attended from schools as far away as Chicago, Illinois as well as areas in Texas.
Katie took 2nd Place in Fighting, and 1st Place in Forms in the Junior Black Belt divisions. She went on to compete
for Grand Champion, which offered an incredible level of comptetition. Katie has appreciated the encouragement
and support of many of the Black Belts of AKA schools as she has progressed through AKA competition this year. September 25, 2007 update: Green Belt and Brown Belt testing!
The Sapulpa Institute of Karate held a testing and promotions ceremony
tonight with Yellow Belts testing for Green, and Brown Belts testing for their first
or second stripe. Mr. Soliday and his Black Belt instructors, Mr. Teddy Soliday,
Miss Katie Carr, and visiting Black Belts Nancie and Leon Longacre, oversaw testing
of movements, forms, and sparring!
September 15, 2007 update: Win at the 12th Annual Golden Dragon Karate Tournament
by Soliday Black Belt
Katie Carr traveled to Guthrie, Oklahoma to compete in the
12th Annual Golden Dragon Karate Tournament. Katie won the 1st Place trophy
in Forms for her Black Belt division, and competed against other 1st Place
Black Belts for Grand Champion. It was a tough competition, and while Katie did
not win, she provided a strong effort. Katie took 2nd Place in the Fighting
competition, which is a great showing for competing in the Black Belt division
for only just over a month.
September 8, 2007 update: Soliday Black Belt, Katie Carr, competes in the
2007 Northwest Arkansas Open Karate Tournament
Katie Carr competed in her first Black Belt competition in an
American Karate Association tournament. Katie took 2nd place in Forms
against strong competition, and 2nd place in Fighting! Katie is excited to be
in the AKA's Junior Black Belt division and looking forward to competing against
this new group of opponents. Katie had a chance to get a picture with Mr. Matt Butcher
of Butcher's Martial Arts, the host and promoter for the tournament. Mr. Butcher
had checked on Katie during the tournament, which was greatly appreciated!
August 28, 2007 update: Mr. Partridge promoted to 2nd Dan!
The Sapulpa Institute of Karate held a blackbelt promotion test and
ceremony. Mr. Partridge was promoted to 2nd DAN by Mr. Ted Soliday, 9th DAN.
Mr. Partridge had joined with UGKA and teaches Japanese Goju Ryu Karate at
Cornerstone Church in Sand Springs, Oklahoma. On hand and assisting in the evaluation and promotion of
Mr. Partridge was Mr. Leon Longacre, 7th DAN.
In addition, Serenity and her daughter received their first white belt stripe!
August 14, 2007 update: White Belt Promotions!
Six Soliday students were promoted today, receiving their first stripe on their
white belt! The students did a great job on their testing, and Mr. Soliday
encouraged each of them during the promotion. The yellow belts worked hard on the
remaining form they needed for a coming green belt test (to be determined), and
the upper belts worked through their advanced forms.
August 11, 2007 update: Katie Carr, Soliday Black Belt, competes at the OKA's
2007 Unified Martial Arts Karate Championship
Katie Carr traveled to Edmond, Oklahoma to compete in her first
tournament as a Black Belt at the Unified Martial Arts Karate Championship. Katie's
powerful performance in the Forms competition propelled her past several Black Belts
and grabbed 2nd Place! In Fighting, Katie won a 2nd Place trophy, facing
off against strong competition. Both finishes add to Katie's points toward her
earning 2007 OKA State Championship awards at the end of the year.
July 16, 2007 update: New Soliday Black Belt, Katie Carr, featured competitor on the
American Karate Association Southern Region's website!
The AKA Southern Region selected Katie Carr, Soliday Black Belt, as their featured competitor
in their Spotlight section on their website. Their website can be found at
Katie will also be featured in their upcoming July newsletter. Katie currently is the top ranked fighter
in her division in the AKA Southern Region, and is tied for being the top ranked forms competitor in her division.
June 19, 2007 update: UGKA Promotions Ceremony
Mr. Soliday presented promotions this Tuesday night. Susan was promoted to yellow belt, and
Samantha was promoted to purple belt. The testing this evening was also for two black belt promotions for
Katie Carr, and Eric Jamison. A sizable crowd turned out to support the testing and promotions ceremony,
and nearly a dozen black belts were on hand to participate and assess the testing ceremony.
NOTICE! Blackbelt and Promotions testing is scheduled for June 19, 2007!
If you are interested in the Sapulpa Institute of Karate, and/or the United Goju Karate Association, plan to attend this event!
June 16, 2007 update: Soliday student sweeps the AKA's Inferno Martial Arts
Summer Supershow and wins the Grand Championship!
Soliday Brown Belt, Katie Carr, traveled to Clarksville, Arkansas to
compete in the American Karate Association's Inferno Summer Supershow. Katie took
1st Place in Fighting, and 1st Place in Forms competition. This qualified Katie
to compete in the Tournament's Grand Championship, a competition between all of
the 1st Place winners across all divisions. Katie competed against all winners
from the 12 through 17 year old divisions in Forms, Musical Forms, and Weapons.
Katie delivered her competing Form to the applause of the audience, and astounded
the judges so much that they awarded her Grand Champion!
June 9, 2007 update: Katie Carr, Soliday brown belt, wins at the Chickasaw Nation
Summer Youth Karate Tournment!
Katie Carr competed traveled to Ada, Oklahoma to compete at the Chickasaw
Nation Summer Youth Karate Tournament. Katie took 1st Place in Fighting,
and 2nd Place in the Forms competition.
May 20, 2007 update: Soliday Blackbelt is awarded Bachelor's Degree!
Eric Armstrong, 5th DAN, graduated from Oklahoma Baptist University yesterday! Mr. Ted Soliday was in attendance at the
graduation ceremony to see Mr. Armstrong receive his Bachelor's Degree. Mr. Armstrong has been a Soliday Blackbelt as well as
an instructor for Mr. Soliday at the Sapulpa Institute of Karate for many years.
May 19, 2007 update: Soliday student wins at the 2nd Annual Oklahoma Open Karate Tournament!
Soliday Brown Belt, Katie Carr, traveled to Moore, Oklahoma to compete in the
2nd Annual Oklahoma Open. Katie took 1st Place in the Forms competition,
and 2nd Place in Fighting. During the match, Katie took a kick to the
face, and the match was paused while the judges checked her. After letting her
recuperate, the match resumed.
May 16, 2007 update: Katie Carr, Soliday Brown Belt, featured on front page of area newspaper!
Photo by Jasmine Patrick/Eagle
Katie Carr Performs Karate at Middle School Talent Show
Soliday student Katie Carr recently entered the Mannford Middle School Talent Show with an
exhibition of Mr. Ted Soliday's Traditional Japanese Goju Ryu Karate! Katie demonstrated a kata after
which she broke boards for the audience.
May 05, 2007 update: Soliday student wins at the Arkansas Classic!
Soliday student Katie Carr, Brown Belt, traveled to compete in the American Karate
Association's Arkansas Classic Karate Tournament in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Katie competed in the
13-14 year old Advanced Division, and took 1st Place in Fighting, and 3rd Place in forms.
Katie is currently the
AKA Southern Region's top ranked fighter for her division, and second ranked competitor in forms for
the 2007 year.
May 01, 2007 update: Institute of Karate Testing and Promotion
Last week and this week, the Sapulpa Institute of Karate held tests and
promotions. Katie Carr, and Eric Jamison were received their second stripe for their Brown
belt, and five students were tested and promoted from white belt to yellow belt. Mr. Soliday was
assisted by Leon Longacre, 7th DAN, as well as Nancie "Tiny" Longacre, 7th DAN, in addition instructors
Mr. Teddy Soliday, 3rd DAN, and Mr. Sam White, 1st DAN.
April 14, 2007 update: Thunderstorm 2007 Rocks the House, and the
Sapulpa Institute of Karate kicks off their 40th Anniversary!!
Thunderstorm 2007 was presented by Mr. Ted Soliday, and his Institute of Karate!
Thomas "Thunderkick" Longacre held his Thunderstorm 2007 stand-up fighting and point
sparring seminar at Mr. Soliday's Institute of Karate. This was also the kick off
for the 40th Anniversary of the Sapulpa Institute of Karate - perhaps the longest running
karate school in the State of Oklahoma!
There was a strong turnout for Thunderstorm 2007, and many of the participants
were thrilled to be able to work out with Thunderkick, as well as pick up some of his
fighting expertise!
Among the visiting special guests for the event was Five Time World Champion
Dale "Apollo" Cook! Mr. Cook is also the Coach for the Oklahoma Destroyers, of which Thunderkick
is a member. The Oklahoma Destroyers is one of the teams of Chuck Norris' World
Combat League!
The WCL was a sponsor of Thunderstorm 2007, providing materials for the event, as well
as WCL gear!
Also among Thunderkick's specials guests was "Handsome" Matt Wiman,
a UFC Fighter! Mr. Wiman took time to pose for pictures with attendees and Soliday
students, as well as sign autographs.
At the event, Mr. Soliday and all the visiting black belt special guests
took a moment to recognize Thomas "Thunderkick" Longacre as Mr. Soliday promoted Thunderkick
to 3rd DAN, Goju Ryu. In addition to be signed by Mr. Soliday, Thomas' promotion certificate
was signed by a multitude of Grandmasters and Masters from around the region, many of them
in attendence for this moment.
April 7, 2007 update: Soliday student wins at AKA tournament
Katie Carr, Soliday Brown Belt, traveled to the AKA's 7th Annual
Eureka Springs Martial Arts Classic. Katie took 1st Place in Fighting, and 1st
Place in Forms. In addition, Katie went on to compete for the Grand Championship,
her first such opportunity in competition. Although she did not win, she came back
from Eureka Springs with a solid performance.
March 24, 2007 update: Soliday student competes in OKA tournament
Soliday student, Katie Carr, competed at the Oklahoma Spring Break Karate Tournament held
at Premiere Martial Arts in Moore, Oklahoma! Katie took 2nd Place in Fighting, and 3rd Place in
Forms.
March 13, 2007 update: Sam White promotion!
Mr. Soliday promoted Mr. Sam White at this week's class. Sam White has been
both a Soliday student and a student of Mr. Clayton Badger's (5th DAN) Japanese Goju School of Karate
in Drumright.
Soliday student, Christian, displays his hard earned 2nd Place trophy from
the 14th Annual American Open Karate Championship!
March 10, 2007 update: Mr. Soliday attends the American Open Karate Championship
in Locust Grove, Oklahoma.
{Webmaster's Note: Due to an unfortunate technical problem with my camera, all pics were lost.
If you were at the tournament and have pics you would like to share, please
Soliday students competing were Christian (in the 7-8 year old Beginners) and Katie (in the
13-14 year old Advanced). Christian competed in fighting only, taking 2nd Place! This was Christian's
very first tournament, and he battled through one of the most competitive divisions fighting
multiple brackets before winning his trophy! Katie took 2nd Place in Forms, and 1st Place in Fighting!
Also present was Allen Anderson, 2nd DAN, and his students. Samantha (13-14 year old Intermediate) took 2nd Place in Forms, and
1st Place in Fighting, and Tyler took 4th Place and 2nd Place.
Also in competition, Nancie Longacre, 7th DAN, took 3rd Place in the Adult Blackbelt 35 year old
and up division, and 1st Place in the Adult Blackbelt 43 year old and up division!
Katie's Kata Competition Katie's Sparring Competition
Nancie's Kata Competition
February 24, 2007 update: Soliday Black Belts and student win at the Oklahoma
Karate Association Awards Tournament in Moore, Oklahoma!
Leon Longacre, 7th DAN, and Nancie Longacre, 7th DAN, both competed at the
OKA Awards Tournament. Nancie took 1st place in the Forms Competition, while Leon took
3rd place after an intense competition! Both Mr. and Mrs. Longacre also participated in
judging several divisions within the tournament, and Mr. Longacre assisted in judging the
adult black belt fighting competitions.
Soliday student, Katie Carr, competed in both Fighting and Forms. Katie
took 1st place in the Forms competition amidst stiff competition. The only brown belt
in the advanced division, she faced off against a group of black belts, performing her
kata a second time to break a three-way tie for first place. Katie also won 1st place
in the fighting competition. After the tournament, Katie was presented an award for being
the number 1 fighter for the year in 2006, and the number 2 competitor in forms in
the State of Oklahoma!
February 23, 2007 update: Mr. Soliday attends the Night of the Ninjas Tournament in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma
Mr. Soliday attended the Friday night Shotokan Tiger tournament, judging several
divisions throughout the evening. This was a rare all-male tournament, which was a
diversion from the normal annual friday evening tournaments offered as all-female competitions.
Mr. Allen Anderson, 2nd DAN, also attended this event, and judged several divisions as well.
Competing in this tournament were Soliday students Chase and Matt. Chase took 4th
place in fighting, and Matt took 1st place in fighting.
January 27, 2007 update: Mr. Soliday attends
Midwestern Open 2007 in Neosho, Missouri
Nancie Longacre (7th DAN), Katie Carr (Brown Belt), and Eric Jamison (Brown Belt),
represented the UGKA and the Sapulpa Institute of Karate in competition at the
SWAT Regional Event - the Midwestern Open 2007 held at Crowder College in
Neosho, Mo.
Mr. Soliday visits with other SWAT Blackbelts. Also accompanying
Mr. Soliday was Leon Longacre (7th DAN), Allan Anderson (2nd DAN), and
parents of Soliday students, Larry Jamison and Scott Carr.
Nancie "Tiny" Longacre took 2nd Place competing in the
Senior Blackbelt division. Nancie also assisted greatly with Katie,
providing her the opportunity to warm up, as well as providing support
and encouragement in her efforts.
Eric Jamison took 2nd Place in the Forms Competition,
and 2nd Place in the Fighting Competition. This was Eric's first tournament
competing in the Advanced Division, and he had an excellent showing!
Katie Carr faced substantial competition in her division, and
although she did not place in the Forms Competition, she was awarded 1st Place in the
13-15 year Female Advanced Division. Katie also took the opportunity to
fight in the Advanced Male division and did well facing off against three
opponents.
January 16, 2007 update
Mr. Soliday and interested students will be attending the 15th Annual Midwestern Open Karate Tournament in Neosho, Mo
on Saturday, January 27th. If you are interested, see the tournament link on the left for further details. Parents interested in
carpooling can email...
December 31, 2006 - Soliday Student, Katie Carr, competes in the Sport Karate 2006 Amateur Internationals in Buffalo, NY
Katie Carr competed in Traditional Japanese Forms, and the Fighting Competition. Although Katie did not place
in the Forms Competition, she was given a very strong score. In the Fighting Competition, Katie was awarded
3rd Place and named a 2006 Amateur Champion.
Promotion Testing from December 19, 2006
There was an excellent turnout Tuesday night for the UGKA promotion testing with family and friends attending to watch the event at
the Sapulpa Institute of Karate!
In addition to the student testing, there were some black belt promotions for UGKA instructors!
Mr. Clayton Badger was promoted to 5th DAN, Mr. Teddy Soliday was promoted to 3rd DAN, and Mr. Eric Armstrong
was promoted to 5th DAN!
Soliday student, Michael, successfully completed all testing requirements and was promoted
from Purple to Brown Belt!
Soliday student, Mallory, was promoted from Purple Belt to Brown Belt after successfully completing
her test requirements.
The Carr family, all Soliday students, were promoted - Scott, Susan, and Kassie receiving their
second stripe for their White Belt, while Katie received her first stripe for her Brown Belt.
Soliday student, Chase, was promoted to Yellow Belt after successfully completing his
test requirements.
Also attending were:
Leon Longacre, 7th DAN
Nancie Longacre, 7th DAN
Allen Anderson, 2nd DAN
Cody, 2nd DAN
Ronnie, 2nd DAN
December 19, 2006 - UGKA Promotion Test!
This coming Tuesday will be a UGKA promotion test. There will be lower rank testing as well as Brown Belt testing! If you are interested in seeing the difference
of Traditional Goju Ryu Karate, please come out and join us! The testing will get underway starting at 6:30pm. A link for a map to where we are located is
provided above!
December 9, 2006
Mr. Soliday attended the Wild Bunch Karate Association Promotion Ceremony.
Also attending
with Mr. Soliday was Mr. Leon Longacre - 7th DAN, Mrs. Nancie Longacre - 7th DAN, and
Mr. Alan Anderson - 2nd DAN. Soliday students Michael, Scott, and Kassie came to
watch the promotion, with Katie Carr, Brown Belt, gearing up to participate in the sparring
portion of the test. Katie assisted in the sparring test in 7 matches, including to
where she had the honor of sparring participating black belts.
November 18, 2006
Mr. Soliday attends the AKA Southern Regional Finals in Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Mr. Soliday traveled to the American Karate Association Southern Regional Finals along with
Leon and Nancie Longacre and Soliday student, Katie Carr. Nancie Longacre, 7th DAN Goju, won
1st Place in the Blackbelt competition for Forms. Katie Carr won 1st Place in the Fighting competition,
and 2nd Place in Forms.
Mr. Soliday judged many of the competitions including the Blackbelt competitions, along with
Leon Longacre, 7th DAN Goju.
November 4, 2006
Mr. Soliday attends Mike Kaylor's 34th Annual Springfield Open Karate Tournament in Springfield, Missouri.
Mr. Soliday traveled to Springfield, Missouri to renew and refresh long standing relationships.
Mr. Soliday participated as a judge in the Forms competition.
Mr. Soliday judges the Fighting competitions.
Soliday student, Katie Carr, also traveled to compete in the Springfield Open.
Katie took 1st Place in Fighting, and 2nd Place in Forms.
October 21, 2006
Mr. Soliday attended the Showdown at Frontier City Karate Tournament along
with Soliday student Katie Carr, Allen Anderson, 2nd DAN Goju, Leon Longacre, 7th DAN Goju,
and Nancy Longacre, 7th DAN Goju. Katie Carr took 1st Place in the Forms Competition, and
2nd Place in Fighting with assistance from Mr. Leon Longacre coaching.
Mr. Soliday discusses with Leon and Nancy
Longacre.
Mr. Soliday and Nancy Longacre
Mr. Soliday and Soliday student Katie Carr discuss after her 1st Place effort in the
Forms Competition.
Mr. Soliday greets and visits with Mr. Jack Hwang, who was honored and inducted into the
Oklahoma Karate Hall of Fame.
October 7, 2006 - Mr. Soliday attends the 1st Annual Choptoberfest
Saturday was Mark Mercer's 1st Annual Choptoberfest Karate Tournament in Muskogee. Mr. Soliday attended and participated in judging the blackbelt competitions.
Nancy and Leon Longacre also attended the tournament, and also participated in judging the blackbelt competitions. In addition, Mr. Soliday's student, Katie Carr,
competed in her second tournament at the advanced level. She took third place in the Forms competition. In the Fighting competition, Katie declined the
opportunity to accept first place trophy because there were no females present. Instead she chose to compete agains the male competition in the
advanced division and with the coaching of Mr. Longacre took third place in fighting.
September 20, 2006 - More pics from Promotion and Testing!
Special thanks to Judy White who is sharing her pics with anyone interested! These additional links are of various shots
during the tournament, and included are higher resolution pics.
September 16, 2006 - 2nd Annual Red Dragon Goju Karate Tournament!
Mr. Soliday and students attended the Red Dragon Goju Karate Tournament in Tulsa. Mr. Soliday
assisted in judging the blackbelt competition, among other events. Soliday students Katie and
Michael competed in their respective divisions. Katie competed in the advanced class, and
Michael competed in the intermediate class - with this being the first tournament after having
received their promotions!
Katie won 1st place in the Forms Competition. Michael took 3rd place in the Forms Competition
and 1st place in Fighting!
As there were no female advanced competitors for Katie, she requested the opportunity to compete
against the male advanced competitors in fighting. With Mr. Soliday's coaching, Katie won the
first match which was stopped for points as Katie pulled ahead 6 to 1. Katie's second match
went the full time, although Katie won with a comfortable lead and took the 1st place trophy for
Fighting.
Mr. Soliday with David Box, 10th DAN Goju visiting from Joplin, Mo
September 12, 2006 - UGKA Testing and Promotions held!
The United Goju Karate Association held its Testing and Promotions event at the Sapulpa Institute of Karate. Students from UGKA schools - Dragon's Star Karate in
Mannford, and Japanese Goju School of Karate in Drumwright also participated in testing and promotion.
August 29, 2006 - Upper Belt Test Scheduled for September 12th, 6:30pm
Mark your calendars now! The Institute of Karate will be having their upper belt testing the second Tuesday in September! There
will be black belt testing, brown belt testing, as well as testing for purple and green. A UGKA promotion test involves robust evaluations at all levels, especially for black and
brown. Attending will be numerous black belts from around the area to assess the skill levels of the Goju
students.
If you are considering joining the UGKA, this night would provide an excellent opportunity to evaluate
the United Goju Karate Association at this testing event at the Institute of Karate in Sapulpa!
Mr. Soliday's student, Katie Carr, wins the Full Force State Karate tournament! - August 20, 2006
Katie Carr competed in the Full Force Karate tournament in Cushing, OK this last Saturday. Katie
was awarded 1st Place for fighting and 2nd place for forms.
Tonight the Sapulpa Institute of Karate had testing and promotions for the White belts in the class,
where they received their second stripe. The students have worked hard, and have accomplished a great
deal. Their promotion was well earned!
The upper belts continued their efforts towards getting ready for testing. Nancy Longacre (7th DAN),
and Leon Longacre (7th DAN) visited class to assist with getting the upper belts prepared. The
students greatly appreciated their visit, their insight, and their assistance in getting them ready
physically and mentally for what lies ahead.
Thomas "Thunderkick" Longacre Wins! - July 31, 2006
Thomas "Thunderkick" Longacre (2nd DAN Goju - Ted Soliday, 2nd DAN Tae Kwon Do - Dale Apollo Cook) successfully defended his title last weekend bringing his winning record to 29-2! Mr. Soliday attended the fight and is pictured
with Leon Longacre (7th DAN Goju), Thomas, and the Vice President of Chuck Norris' World Combat League, Mike Norris. Thomas has fought for the World Combat League
two times before, and will be participating in the upcoming WCL where he will lead the Oklahoma Destroyers up against International Kickboxing Champion Freddie Poole,
and the Texas Dragons! This event will be September 22nd in Austin, Texas at the University of Texas' Erwin Center. For more information, see the
Mr. Soliday and his students attended the 12th Annual Whirlwind Classic hosted by Larry Wells. Mr. Soliday was among the honored blackbelts introduced at what
may be the largest State Karate tournament in Oklahoma! Mr. Soliday was among the judges determining the black belt competitions as well as determining the
tournament Grand Champion!
Students representing Mr. Soliday - Katie, Eric, Michael, and Rose attended along with Allan Anderson, United Goju Karate Association instructor.
Students made their presence known at the Whirlwind Classic. They made an impact in their divisions taking top honors.
The Wild Bunch Karate Camp took place July 01, 2006
This weekend, Mr. Soliday and students attended the Wild Bunch Karate Camp. Mr. Soliday taught one of the many available sessions, showing his skill and
expertise in what he calls the "Goju Slap".
April 14, 2007 update: Thunderstorm 2007 Rocks the House, and the
Sapulpa Institute of Karate kicks off their 40th Anniversary!!
