Shihan Rodney F. K. Hu
Rokudan (6th Degree)
Born on June 16, 1940, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Rodney F. K. Hu, affectionately known as Shihan F. K. Hu, dedicated his life to the art of karate. He began his journey in 1956 under Sensei Masaichi Oshiro at Te-Ken Ju-Tsu Kai dojo, immersing himself in the discipline and principles of karate.
Throughout his training, Shihan Hu encountered influential masters like Gogen Yamaguchi Sensei, Gosei Yamaguchi Sensei and Morio Higaonna Sensei, refining his skills and deepening his understanding of Goju-Ryu. He received his Shodan in 1961 and continued to advance, eventually opening his own Goju-Ryu school in Stockton, California, in 1964.
A pivotal moment in Shihan Hu's journey was his participation in the First World Karate-Do Championship in Tokyo in 1970, where he met and was inspired by Higaonna Sensei. This encounter left a lasting impression, solidifying his commitment to traditional Okinawan Goju-Ryu.
Beyond his dedication to karate, Shihan Hu is a devoted family man, cherishing the time spent with his loved ones and instilling in them the same values of discipline, respect, and perseverance that he upheld in his martial arts practice.
Shihan F. K. Hu viewed his students not just as pupils but as members of his extended family, his 'ohana. He nurtured their growth and development both within and outside the dojo, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among them.
Rodney F. K. Hu's legacy extends far beyond the dojo, leaving an indelible mark on the martial arts community and his family, embodying the true spirit of karate as a way of life.
Sensei Peter Garcia
Sandan (3rd Degree)
Sensei Peter Garcia has been an indispensable figure in the Rodney Hu Goju Ryu Karate community for over four decades. His journey into the world of martial arts commenced in 1972 under the tutelage of Shihan F. K. Hu, within the halls of the Stockton, California YMCA.
Alongside esteemed peers such as Sensei Bobby Ulep and Sensei Eric Shingu, Sensei Peter immersed himself in the rigorous training regimen set forth by Shihan Hu. Their camaraderie and shared dedication fueled their progress as martial artists, forging bonds that would endure through the years.
Sensei Peter's commitment to his training was unwavering. Beyond the structured classes at the YMCA, he dedicated countless hours to refining his skills, often engaging in private sessions with Shihan Hu, sometimes even in the humble confines of Shihan Hu's garage.
Despite the passing years, Sensei Peter's dedication to Rodney Hu Goju Ryu Karate never faltered. He remains an active participant in the dojo, generously volunteering his time to mentor and guide younger students. His wisdom and experience serve as a beacon for those following in his footsteps, including Sensei Mark Williams, whom he personally mentors, ensuring the continuation of the dojo's rich legacy and traditions.
Sensei Peter Garcia's enduring commitment to Rodney Hu Goju Ryu Karate embodies the essence of martial arts, emphasizing not only physical prowess but also the values of discipline, respect, and lifelong dedication.
Sensei Mark Williams
Nidan (2nd Degree)
Born on November 1st, 1975, in the city of Hilo, Hawaii, Sensei Mark Williams embodies the spirit of martial arts and carries forward a legacy of dedication and excellence. His journey into the world of karate began in 2014, marking the commencement of a lifelong pursuit of mastery in the art form.
As the head instructor at Rodney Hu Goju Ryu Karate, Sensei Mark plays a pivotal role in shaping the minds and bodies of aspiring martial artists. Under his guidance, students are not only trained in the physical techniques of karate but also imbued with the core values of discipline, respect, and perseverance.
Sensei Mark's journey towards mastery has been shaped by the wisdom and expertise of his mentors. He has dedicated countless hours to training under the tutelage of distinguished martial artists, including Sensei Rodney K. S. Hu, his father Shihan F. K. Hu, and one of Shihan Hu's top students, Sensei Peter Garcia. Their guidance has instilled in him a deep appreciation for the intricacies of the art and a profound understanding of its principles.
Following the passing of Sensei Rodney K. S. Hu, Sensei Mark was entrusted with a significant responsibility by his father Shihan Hu and Mary Hu, Rodney's wife. Recognizing his talent, dedication, and commitment to the legacy of Rodney Hu Goju Ryu Karate, they asked Mark to assume the primary teaching role at the dojo. It is a responsibility that Sensei Mark carries with humility and honor, driven by a deep sense of duty to continue the legacy and tradition of the school's core values and strong karate.
Sensei Mark Williams stands as a beacon of inspiration within the martial arts community, embodying the spirit of resilience, perseverance, and dedication. Through his leadership and unwavering commitment, he ensures that the legacy of Rodney Hu Goju Ryu Karate remains alive and vibrant, inspiring future generations of martial artists to strive for excellence.
Owner Mary Hu
Mary Hu is a resilient entrepreneur and guardian of the martial arts legacy left by her late husband, Rodney K. S. Hu. Despite the profound loss of her partner, Mary remains steadfast in her commitment to preserving and perpetuating the esteemed tradition of Rodney Hu Goju Ryu Karate.
Following the passing of Rodney K. S. Hu, Mary has taken on the mantle of leadership with grace and determination. Drawing upon her deep respect for the martial arts and her unwavering dedication to her husband's vision, she has assumed the role of owner and custodian of Rodney Hu Goju Ryu Karate.
In her new role, Mary not only manages the day-to-day operations of the dojo but also serves as a source of inspiration and guidance for its students and instructors. With a profound understanding of the values instilled by Rodney, she continues to uphold the dojo's ethos of discipline, respect, and excellence.
Mary's resilience and strength in the face of adversity have been instrumental in carrying forward the legacy of Rodney Hu Goju Ryu Karate. Through her leadership, she ensures that her late husband's teachings and legacy remain alive and vibrant, providing a beacon of hope and inspiration for all who pass through the doors of the dojo.
In honoring Rodney's memory and legacy, Mary Hu stands as a testament to the enduring power of martial arts and the indomitable spirit of those who dedicate themselves to its practice.
