Samurai Martial Arts History

Samurai Martial Arts School was founded in 1994.  It is the culmination of the Martial Arts life work of Sensei Curt Sawyer.  This work began in 1978 when Curt Sawyer began his Karate training with Master Joseph Jennings.  During this training, Joe Jennings liked Curt's enthusiasm for Martial Arts and hard work ethic so he asked him to manage a new Gates location in 1981.  At that time, Curt was a Brown Belt working towards Black Belt.  He was promoted to Black Belt by Master Angi Uezu - the Son-in-law of Master Shimabuku - the founder of Isshin Ryu Karate.

From 1981 to 1994, Sensei Sawyer owned and operated two very successful Jennings Karate academies.  One was in Gates, and one was in Spencerport.  The owner Curt and one of his Head Instructors, Jeff Brooks, began training with the Gracie family to improve their grappling and ground fighting skills.  During this time, Curt has has traveled to Okinawa, Japan three times to compete and train with the Karate Master.

In 1994 the academies were combined and a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program was added into what is today the Samurai Martial Arts School.

When you first enter the building, you will be impressed with the large parent viewing area.  You are encouraged to sit and watch as your Son or Daughter participates in class. 

  Click thumbnail pictures to enlarge.

There is also a large Martial Arts Store that you can brows through, and find gifts for all occasions.  The store is regularly stocked with uniforms, training equipment, weapons, instructional videos, and Martial Arts clothing or jewelry.

There are also healthy snacks and coffee available for the parents as they watch their Son or Daughter train.

The self-defense programs available are Isshin Ryu Karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Wing Chun Kung Fu, Phillipino Knife & Stick, and Cardio Kick boxing.

Samurai Martial Arts has a fitness center that is available to adult members.  In the fitness center, there are treadmills, lifecycle, and step masters for your cardio training.  We have Olympic weights, universal machines, hydro-fitness machines that can work all your muscle groups.

Located in both the Men's and Women's locker rooms are saunas and showers (cleaned daily).

Samurai has an excellent reputation for teaching self-defense to all age groups.  There are many benefits from learning the Martial Arts and getting fit.  The people at Samurai are eager to help.  The staff are highly trained and motivated to teach or assist you.  

Feel free to call for information at 429-6340.