Sensei Kenneth Bunji Tamai
Sensei Kenneth Bunji Tamai, head sensei of Hui-O-Judo in Beltsville, Maryland, will always be fondly remembered for his Hawaiian shirts, his cigar and his laugh.
He began judo in 1942 in Honolulu Hawaii and helped the early formation and continued development of Shufu Judo Yudanshakai. He was a sensei, a coach, a friend, a mentor, an adviser and so much more. He taught the basic techniques and had his judoka build a solid judo foundation which they could develop upon. He taught us to love the sport of judo for all of the wonderful aspects it provides, especially the development of each person’s character.
Sensei Tamai devoted his life to the growth of judo, especially Shufu Yudanshakai, where he was an administrative chairman, tracking all promotions, event records and all administrative tasks to help the Yudanshakai develop.
He departed this life back in Honolulu as a Rokudan in June of 2004, leaving the legacy of his wife Dorothy, whom he met at judo, and his six children to carry on the judo traditions. Growing up they all practiced and competed in judo competitions, and now are the leading senseis at both Hui-O Judo in Beltsville and College Park Judo Club. They organize and run most of the regional tournaments, promotions and clinics for Shufu Yudanshakai. Four of his 16 grandchildren are now competing in judo tournaments.
