Monika Ritzler, first women in Sweden to be promoted to Oku-iri Sho-dan.

Monika who has Dan grades in Karate (Goju Ryu) and Ju-jutsu where she is a European Champion. Monika also has high grades in Wado Ryu and Judo.

With Dan grades in three Budo arts she is probably one of the most accomplished Budo women in Sweden today.

I am fortunate in having the privilege to train with Monika and all the wonderful people in Yoshinken.

Thanks to Sensei Marshall McDonagh a true Master, who cultivates and encourages existing knowledge from our members in Karate found in (Kyokushinkai, Goju-ryu,Wado-ryu and Shotokan), including as well Ju-jutsu, Aikido, Tai-chi, Pa Kua, Judo, Kendo, and boxing with Taikiken as the basic foundation.

I have not heard of any other women in Europe or Japan who has been promoted to Oku-Iri Shodan so maybe Monika is the first women today in the world to reach that grade. We really hope that more women will follow.

Osu
Åke Wall