A Historic Milestone with Outstanding Results

This July, the Greater New York Naginata Federation (GNYNF) had the immense honor of hosting the 50th Anniversary of the United States Naginata Federation (USNF) and the 20th National Naginata Championship Tournament. Held in New York City, this historic event brought together practitioners from across the country to celebrate five decades of growth, dedication, and the enduring spirit of budo in the United States.

We are thrilled to share that GNYNF members achieved outstanding results, with strong representation in nearly every division and podium finishes across multiple events!

Taikai Highlights: GNYNF Results

Sansho (Individual Merit Prizes)

We are especially proud to share that GNYNF’s own Otto Herman received the prestigious:

  • Ginosho (Outstanding Technique Award)

Additionally, two GNYNF alumni were recognized for their excellence:

  • Kantosho (Fighting Spirit Award): Kelsey Shamrell-Harrington (now representing PNNF)

  • Shukunsho (Outstanding Performance Award): Miguel Martinez (now representing MWNF)

These special commendations reflect not only technical skill but the character, spirit, and presence of mind that define exceptional budo.

Promotion Exam Successes

We are equally proud of the impressive results from this year’s promotion examination,
which followed the conclusion of the seminar. GNYNF candidates passed at every level of examination,
from 5-kyu to 3-dan. Congratulations to the following members and affiliates:

Sandan (3-dan)

  • Edward Kim

  • Mary Quien

  • Seokjoon Oh

  • Jie Wu

Nidan (2-dan)

  • Jana Casals Puy

  • Stephanie Chen

Shodan (1-dan)

  • Karina Chow

Kyu Ranks

  • 3-kyu: Luke Adams, Brian Crowley

  • 4-kyu: Caroline Powers, Mary Ji, Shi Li

  • 5-kyu: Serena St. John, Logan Dobbs

🙏 Thank You to Our Community

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to:

  • All the volunteers and staff who made the event run smoothly.

  • The visiting federations and instructors who brought their knowledge, energy, and camaraderie.

  • The USNF leadership who entrusted GNYNF with this milestone celebration.

This event showcased the strength of our community; past, present, and future. Hosting the 50th Anniversary of USNF in New York
was not only a tremendous honor but a reflection of how far our federation and the East Coast community have come.

We look forward to building on this momentum as we continue to grow, share, and train together.

See you all next year in Southern California!