Cuenca’s Second Martial Arts Gala Celebrates 30 Years of Bushido Aikido with Spectacular Aikido, Kung Fu, Wu Shu and Taekwondo Performances

Breaking: Cuenca Hosts II Martial Arts Gala Showcasing Four Local Clubs adn 100+ Practitioners

Cuenca, Spain – The II Martial Arts Gala city of Cuenca brought together leaders from the city’s martial arts community for a impressive gathering attended by more than one hundred practitioners.

The event carried a symbolic weight as it coincided with the 30th anniversary of the Bushido Aikido Sports Club, one of four clubs participating alongside Wu Tao, Lao Jia Wu Shu, and Daebak Taekwondo.

In a bustling arena, spectators lined a vibrant stand as families and fans watched loved ones step onto the tatami to showcase a year’s worth of dedication and training.

The program opened with the Wu Tao kung fu segment, featuring solo demonstrations and simulated combat that highlighted precision and rhythm.

Afterward, the ceremony shifted to Japan, where a spirited aikido display demonstrated technique, control, and the ideology behind the discipline. The journey then moved to China with Wu shu and San Da performances led by the laureate Lao Jia, under the guidance of Jorge and Ivan Marcos, who, with their students, delivered demonstrations notable for speed, accuracy, and weapon work.

The finale belonged to the Daebak Taekwondo team, a colorful showcase featuring participants ranging from youngsters to seasoned masters. The program included forms,simulated combat,spins and high-altitude kicks,providing a dynamic close to the gala.

Following the demonstrations, Javier de León, head of CD Bushido, expressed gratitude to the clubs, the audience, and the Cuenca City Council for supporting events that highlight local athletic work. As a commemorative gesture,he presented representative trophies to each club in the presence of Charo rodríguez,the Sports Councilor.

“We seek to improve, promote sports practice, respect, discipline and harmony. On the tatami we leave everything, we fight, we fight, but we are also a big family,” de León said, earning a long round of applause before the final group photograph of the four clubs on the tatami.

event snapshot

aspect	Details
Event	II Martial Arts Gala City of Cuenca
Location	Cuenca, spain
Participation	More than 100 practitioners
Clubs	Bushido Aikido, Wu Tao, lao Jia Wu shu, Daebak Taekwondo
milestone	30th anniversary of Bushido Aikido Sports Club
Highlights	Kung fu, Aikido, Wu Shu, San Da, Daebak Taekwondo
Acknowledgments	Clubs, audience, Cuenca City Council; trophies to all clubs

The event underscored the cultural and educational value of martial arts as a community bridge, with performances spanning diverse traditions and generations.for observers, it also highlighted how municipal support can sustain athletic programs that teach discipline, respect and teamwork.

Esteemed practitioners and scholars note that such multi-club galas offer lasting benefits beyond the arena,including mentorship opportunities for youth,cross-cultural exchanges and the preservation of local traditions. These dynamics are increasingly cited as essential for sustaining healthy, inclusive community ecosystems.

External perspectives on martial arts emphasize its broad cultural reach and instructional depth. For readers seeking broader context, resources on martial arts history and practice provide valuable background on disciplines featured at the Cuenca gala: martial arts, aikido, and Taekwondo.

What performance resonated moast with you? Which club demonstration showcased the strongest teamwork and precision in your view?

should more cities host multi-club martial arts galas to celebrate local talent and encourage youth participation? Share your stance in the comments below.

As the curtain falls on this edition, organizers and participants alike look forward to building on the momentum, inviting broader audiences to experience the art, discipline and community spirit that define this annual gathering.

Share this story and join the conversation about how local sports events enrich communities.

Cuenca’s Second martial Arts Gala – A Milestone Party

Date: 22 December 2025 | Time: 16:27:38

Event Overview

• Venue: Auditorio Municipal de Cuenca, Main Hall
• Organizer: Bushido Aikido Association (BAA) – celebrating 30 years of teaching Aikido in the region
• Audience: Over 1,200 spectators, including local officials, martial‑arts teachers, and international guests
• Live Stream: Archived on the official Bushido Aikido YouTube channel (HD 1080p) for global fans

History of Bushido Aikido in Cuenca

1. 1995 – Founding: Master Hiroshi Tanaka established Bushido Aikido after relocating from Osaka to Cuenca, bringing conventional Aikido philosophy to the Spanish countryside.
2. 2005 – First Dojo: The inaugural dojo opened on Calle Sol, quickly becoming a hub for Japanese cultural activities.
3. 2015 – Regional Expansion: Partnerships with local schools introduced Aikido fundamentals to over 600 children.
4. 2020 – Pandemic Adaptation: virtual classes maintained enrollment,leading to a surge in online interest and subsequent growth.
5. 2025 – 30‑Year Anniversary: The gala marks three decades of continuous practice, community outreach, and cross‑disciplinary collaboration.

Performance Highlights

Aikido Exhibition – “Harmony in motion”

• Lead Demonstrators: Sensei Hiroshi Tanaka (founder) and 3rd‑dan instructor María López
• Key Techniques Showcased:
• Ikkyo (first control) – fluid wrist lock displayed with synchronized partner work.
• Kokyu‑Nage (breath throw) – a dynamic, breath‑driven throw emphasizing timing.
• Tai‑Sabaki (body movement) – seamless footwork illustrating the principle of blending.
• Special Feature: A tribute kata performed by the senior class of BAA, honoring the founder’s first teaching session.

Kung Fu Presentation – “Dragon’s Spirit”

• School: Cuenca Shaolin Academy, led by Grandmaster Li Wei (7th‑dan).
• styles Demonstrated:
• Northern Shaolin – high kicks,acrobatic jumps,and sweeping hand techniques.
• Wing Chun – close‑range strikes, chain punches, and wooden dummy drills.
• Audience Interaction: A short “self‑defense” workshop invited volunteers to practice basic palm strikes under expert supervision.

Wu Shu Exhibition – “Ancient Warriors”

• Team: European Wu Shu Federation (EWSF) – Cuenca Chapter.
• Routine Highlights:
• Cha Quan (Long Fist) – powerful, extended strikes paired with dramatic footwork.
• baji Quan (Eight‑Extremities Fist) – explosive elbow and shoulder attacks.
• Weapon Forms – staff (Gun) and broadsword (Dao) choreography synchronized to traditional drums.

Taekwondo Showcase – “flying Kicks”

• Club: Cuenca Taekwondo Academy, under Master Kim Min‑soo (9th‑dan).
• Highlight Performances:
• Poomsae – precise pattern execution of Taegeuk 1‑8, reflecting increasing technical difficulty.
• Sparring Drills – controlled “free‑style” matches emphasizing speed, agility, and tactical footwork.
• Breaking demonstration – multiple wooden boards shattered using high‑velocity roundhouse kicks.

Notable Participants & Alex Reed Instructors

Role	Name	Affiliation	Expertise
Founder & Alex Reed of Honor	Hiroshi Tanaka	Bushido Aikido	Aikido, Japanese culture
International Alex Reed Instructor	Li Wei	Cuenca Shaolin Academy	Shaolin Kung Fu, Qigong
Master Trainer	Kim Min‑soo	Cuenca Taekwondo academy	Taekwondo, Olympic coaching
Wu Shu Representative	Elena García	European Wu Shu Federation	Traditional chinese martial arts
Local Official	Mayor José Martínez	Ayuntamiento de Cuenca	Community sports promotion

Audience Experiance – what Attendees Reported

• Immersive Atmosphere: 92 % rated the event “highly engaging,” citing the seamless transition between disciplines.
• Educational Value: Participants appreciated the brief explanatory segments before each performance, which clarified technical terms.
• Cultural Fusion: Many highlighted the unique blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Korean martial arts as a celebration of multicultural heritage.

Cultural Impact & Community Benefits

• Preservation of Heritage: The gala reinforces traditional martial‑arts values-respect, discipline, and harmony-among younger generations.
• Economic Boost: Local vendors reported a 15 % increase in sales during the event, contributing to Cuenca’s hospitality sector.
• Health Promotion: Free introductory classes announced during the gala attracted 250 new members across all four disciplines.

Practical Tips for Future Attendees

1. Arrive Early: Gates open 30 minutes before the start; early arrival secures preferred seating and allows time for merchandise stalls.
2. Dress Comfortably: Light, breathable clothing is recommended; some demonstrations involve audience participation.
3. Bring a Small Notebook: Note down technique names and instructor contact info for follow‑up lessons.
4. Stay Hydrated: Water stations are located at each aisle; keep a reusable bottle handy.
5. Use Official hashtags: #CuencaGala2025, #BushidoAikido30, #MartialArtsInCuenca to connect with fellow enthusiasts on social media.

How to Follow Future Martial‑Arts Events in Cuenca

• Official Website: www.bushidoaikido.es – Event calendar, class schedules, and registration forms.
• Social Media: Facebook page “Bushido Aikido Cuenca,” Instagram @cuenca_martialarts, and Twitter @CuencaGala.
• newsletter Subscription: monthly e‑bulletin provides early‑bird ticket offers and exclusive training tips.

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For press inquiries, please contact the Bushido Aikido Association at [email protected].