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Murray's Martial Arts Center, Webster NY

Program Name: Murray's Martial Arts Center
Program Address: 1764 Empire Blvd, Webster NY
Contact Phone: (585) 671-8780
Website: http://www.mmac.us/
Detail: Master Kim Murray was born in Rochester, N. Y. on January 29, 1953. At the age of one, he moved to Los Angeles, CA. Later, he returned to Rochester, N. Y. where he graduated from high school. At the age of 19, he met and fell in love with Susan Marie Mapother, who became his wife on August 27, 1977. Two months later, he began his karate training at the age of 24 with Master Joseph Jennings. Master Jennings trained in Okinawa, Japan in 1972 where he received his Black Belt from Soke Tatsuo Shimabuku, the founder of Isshin Ryu Karate. While at Jennings Karate Academy, Sensei Murray trained in full contact kickboxing. Black Belt and kickboxer, Sensei Jim Louth, became his mentor for the next year. In 1979, he had the opportunity to see Grand Master Angi Uezu for the first time, who came all the way from Okinawa, Japan to teach at Master Jennings' school. Sensei Murray was amazed to see him move with such grace, speed and unbelievable power, especially for such a small man. What really impressed him, however, was how friendly he was with everyone and his wonderful smile. In 1980 Sensei Murray began teaching for Master Jennings at the main school. In 1981 he was asked to become the full time Manager and Instructor at one of Master Jennings' other schools. Shortly thereafter he earned his Black Belt. At this time he also took over teaching at Rochester Institute of Technology where Master Jennings had taught the previous 10 years. This was also the first year he had the privilege of sponsoring Grand Master Angi Uezu's trip to the United States, leading to a friendship that would continue throughout the years. In 1982 Master Jennings asked Sensei Murray to become his business partner. In 1985 he sold him all his remaining interest in the schools and moved to San Clemente, CA. Sensei Murray kept the name Jennings Karate Academy for the next 10 years to honor his instructor. To this day Master Murray remains loyal to his Instructor and will always be grateful for the opportunities he has given him. It wasn't until 1986 that he made his first trip to Okinawa, Japan. It was fantastic to finally visit the land where Isshin Ryu Karate was born. Master Joseph Jennings and Sensei Kim Murray spent a week in Tokyo, Japan, and then another week with Grand Master Uezu in Okinawa. It will always be one of the most memorable highlights of his career. Since then he has made 8 additional trips to train with Grand Master Uezu and to learn more about the Okinawan culture. He has participated in special demonstrations including the opening of Shuri Castle. In 1997 and 2003 Master Murray lead his team to compete in the Okinawa World Karate and Kobu-Do Championships. Grand Master Angi Uezu presented Master Murray with his 7th Degree Black Belt in 1996. That same year, Master Murray changed the name of his schools to Murray's Martial Arts Centers. The art was also passed on to Master Murray's oldest son, Sensei Kim Murray Jr., who started his karate training in 1981. He is presently a 5th Degree Black Belt. Kim Jr. first trained in Okinawa in 1994, then returned in 1997 and 2003 to compete in the Okinawan World Championships both times. He has his BS degree in Biology from Suny Brockport College and has earned his MD from the University of Rochester. He completed his 5 year Residency as an ENT at University of Medicine and Dentistry in Newark, NJ. He is now practicing in Miami, Florida and specializing in Facial Plastics. His daughter, Kelly, started her training in 1985. She is now a 5th Degree Black Belt. She has also been to Okinawa on two occasions, both times competing in the Okinawan World Championships. Kelly earned her BS degree in Psychology from Suny Brockport College. She has recently graduated from SAE Institute in Manhatten in Sound Engineering. Kasey, his youngest son, started his training 1994, and is a 3nd degree Black Belt. He attended Baruch College in Manhattan, NY studying Business in 2009. He has recently graduated from SAE Institute in Manhatten in Sound Engineering. He is currently producing his own music and is employed at Dubway Studios in New York City. All three of Master Kim Murray's children started training in the martial arts when they were only four years old and had earned their Black Belts in Karate by the age of 9. They are truly an example of what a lifetime in martial arts can do for you. Master Murray's wife, Susan, began her Karate training in 1998. She earned her 1st Degree Black Belt in 2003 and is the Director of Finances and Vice President of Murray's Martial Arts Centers. Susan has traveled to Okinawa for the 2003 Okinawan World Championships. In 2004 she was invited to visit TianJin, China to demonstrate the art of Isshin Ryu Karate and Kobu-Do. Master Murray now owns and operates 4 full time professional Karate schools. Since 1981 he has been teaching accredited Karate classes at Rochester Institute of Technology. In October of 2004 Mr. Louis Spiotti Jr., Director for Intercollegiate Athletics and Recreation, recognized Master Murray for his outstanding accomplishments and dedication to the college. Master Murray was invited to TianJin, China by Mr Spiotti to help foster a friendship with RIT's sister University. While in China Master Murray demonstrated Isshin Ryu Karate for hundreds of faculty and students at the University. When they returned, Mr Spiotti promoted Master Murray to the Coordinator of all Martial Arts programs at Rochester Institute of Technology. He has taught tens of thousands of students in the Art of Isshin Ryu Karate and Kobu-Do. He has competed both nationally and internationally and has won numerous grand championships. In 2001 he formed the United Isshin Ryu Karate and Kobu-Do Association. This organization is dedicated to maintain the tradition of excellence set forth by Soke Tatsuo Shimabuku. The organization aims to help increase the professionalism and improve the business practices of all its chartered schools. In January of 2004, Grand Master Angi Uezu promoted Master Kim Murray to his 8th Degree Black Belt. This was not only an extraordinary accomplishment, but the honor of a lifetime for any martial artist. On a personal note I would like to express my appreciation, love and thanks for the most important people in my life. Without them none of my success and many accomplishments would have been possible! My wife, Susan My parents, William and JoAnn My children, Kim Jr, Kelly and Kasey Master Joseph Jennings Grand Master Angi Uezu
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