Takahiko Ishikawa and the Philadelphia Judo Club

Below is a short biography on Takahiko Ishikawa and his time in Philadelphia, based on a few interviews on MAYTT and some outside sources. This is by no means an extensive biography of the judo champion from Japan. This is, however, an overview of his actions and influences during his time in the city. Being … Continue reading Takahiko Ishikawa and the Philadelphia Judo Club

Interview with Art Bourgeau, Part II: History of the Philadelphia Judo Club and J.B. Gross

Beginning his judo training under the famed Takahiko Ishikawa at the Ishikawa Judo Club in 1968, Art Bourgeau soon inherited the club in 1983, being the head instructor for twenty-five years, under the Philadelphia Judo Club namesake. Today, Art discusses the history of one of the longest judo clubs in Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Judo Club, … Continue reading Interview with Art Bourgeau, Part II: History of the Philadelphia Judo Club and J.B. Gross

Interview with Art Bourgeau, Part I: Training Under Takahiko Ishikawa

Beginning his judo training under the famed Takahiko Ishikawa at the Ishikawa Judo Club in 1968, Art Bourgeau soon inherited the club in 1983, being the head instructor for twenty-five years, under the Philadelphia Judo Club namesake. Today, Art discusses his relationship with Ishikawa and his training under him. This is part one of a … Continue reading Interview with Art Bourgeau, Part I: Training Under Takahiko Ishikawa

Interview with Thomas Blair: Takahiko Ishikawa and Growing Judo in the Modern World

This is a transcript of an interview with Thomas Blair of Main Line Judo from the spring of 2019. In it, we discuss his time under Takahiko Ishikawa, judo in the Philadelphia area, and growing the art in today’s social climate. Martial Arts of Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow: Hello Thomas Blair Sensei! I would like … Continue reading Interview with Thomas Blair: Takahiko Ishikawa and Growing Judo in the Modern World