Hamilton resident to be honored at karate tribute

Hamiltonian Bob Harris (middle) and Cincinnati residents, Charles Emery (left) and Walter Fegan, all grandmasters in karate, were promoted to Nim status at a ceremony in Atlanta.

Hamiltonian Bob Harris (middle) and Cincinnati residents, Charles Emery (left) and Walter Fegan, all grandmasters in karate, were promoted to Nim status at a ceremony in Atlanta.

A lifelong resident of Hamilton’s Second Ward has risen to the highest status of karate master — Nim status of karate grandmasters.

Bob “Moo Duk Kwan” Harris has been teaching karate since 1969, including more than 35 years of teaching at the Hamilton YMCA and at his studio on South Second Street.

He advocates for the martial arts because of its physical, mental, and spiritual benefits, he said

In 1973, Harris helped to establish the National Black Belt Karate Association in Cincinnati.

“This area has a very rich history in the art of karate,” Harris said.

That history, as well as the accomplishments of other karate students will be celebrated at a special event Saturday.

“At this luncheon Saturday, there will be the release of a historic documentary honoring local karate Nims, including, Walter Fagan and Charles Emery and myself,” Harris said.

Nim is a title that means “honorable sir,” and is the giver of all rank, according to Harris. In martial arts, there are 10 degrees, and in order to gain a 10th degree, someone higher in rank must bestow the honor, he said.

The event will detail the stories of Harris and the other Nims who have accomplished so much in Karate.

There will be also be a premier viewing of the documentary of the founding of the National Black Belt Karate Association, he said.

“I think the documentary being released on Saturday will be very important in telling that story,” Harris said.

Kenneth Robinson, National Black Belt Karate Association National Karate Champio, will be at the event.

Hamilton resident Michelle Wilson will be honored at the event with her 8th degree Black Belt.

The event begins at 12:30 p.m. Saturday at Receptions Banquet & Conference Center in Fairfield.

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