"The concept of kendo is to discipline the human character through the application of the principles of the katana (sword)" ~ All Japan Kendo Federation

Our super fun Kendo Tournament in the Seattle area unfortunately didn't end with a perfect smile on our face.

On November 1, 2025, my kendo friend and I had a great time at the tournament and decided to have a little dinner in downtown Tacoma before we headed back to Portland.

We had a good dinner and conversation and were ready to go home for a good rest and sleep. We got in my car parked near the restaurant. As we slowly pulled away, we were stunned to see my Subaru's rear glass shattered. Someone busted it while parked. And worse, my friend's bag of the entire kendo equipment was stolen! The cost of these protective gear pieces varies, but never cheap. And, stating the obvious, if we don't have a full set of equipment, we can't do full practice. It is absolutely heartbreaking for those who practice this Japanese martial art, like when a samurai lost their sword...

While we are so grateful that no harm was done to us, we need a new set of gear for HER. Villains can break the glass and steal a bag, but they can't steal our kendo spirit!

I'd like to humbly ask you to join me in helping my passionate kendoist friend to purchase a new set of kendo gear!

Photo credit: Kendo Photography with permission