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On Saturday, April 5th, the Swiss dojo in Saignelégier hosted the 2nd International Seibukan Martial Arts Congress (SBIF), expertly organized by the Swiss delegation, led by 6th Dan Master Kyoshi Pascal Kaufmann. The event brought together members of this international organization of traditional Japanese martial arts from Switzerland, Spain, Italy, Slovenia, France, and Canada. Approximately sixty people gathered on the tatami to share knowledge, experiences, and, above all, to deepen their understanding of the teachings of Master Ricardo Sanz Orús, founder of Seibukan Budo and president of the International Seibukan Budo Federation (SBIF). Additionally, Nihon Karatedo sessions were held, taught by Masters Leskarovski (7th Dan), Kaufmann (Kyoshi, 6th Dan), and Bongongo (5th Dan).
The main goal of the congress was to strengthen the bonds among federation members and promote the preservation of authentic Japanese Budo traditions, an art that, as Master Sanz stated in an interview with Pascale Noaillon for Le Quotidien Jurassien, not only focuses on combat technique but also on developing the fundamental values underlying these practices, such as compassion, courage, courtesy, honesty, honor, justice, and loyalty.
Ricardo Sanz, born in Spain in 1968, has trained several times in Japan, France, the United States, and Israel. He currently holds official federative certifications of 8th Dan in Nihon Jujutsu - Taijutsu, 7th Dan in Yoseikan Aiki, and 7th Dan in Nihon Kobudo, along with National Master certification in each of these martial arts. After his experience in the land of the samurai, he founded his school with the aim of spreading and preserving the traditions of Japanese martial arts. According to Sanz, "It's not just about learning combat techniques, but about learning to fight in order not to fight," advocating that martial arts do not promote violence but allow it to be channeled positively. He also emphasized the importance of martial arts for channeling energy, highlighting that the true purpose of traditional martial arts "is to learn to live with generosity, respect, humility, and discipline, and not just to fight another person, win medals, or create sterile confrontational discourses between individuals."
Among the attendees was Roland Vallat, a veteran martial artist, who shared his passion for the tradition and continuity of these martial practices. "What attracted me to Japanese martial arts was the traditional aspect, something that is passed down from generation to generation. Every fall is a lesson, and every projection is a challenge overcome," explained Vallat, who has been practicing continuously for 40 years.
The atmosphere of the congress, which took place in an environment full of camaraderie and respect, was also a space for reflecting on the importance of collective growth, as mentioned by Vallat's daughter, Doriane, who highlighted that these courses are not about medals or titles, but about the "baggage you carry with you."
The choice of Saignelégier as the venue for the congress was no accident. The Franches-Montagnes region is known for its natural beauty, and the facilities at the Leisure Center, with its unique infrastructure, made this event even more special. With its hotel and swimming pool, it is the ideal place for events like this, offering all the necessary amenities for participants, which contributed to the success of the congress.
The congress was also an opportunity for the presentation of diplomas and certifications, recognizing the effort and dedication of students and masters who have worked tirelessly to preserve and spread the traditions of Budo and Nihon Kobudo: Hyoho Niten Ichi ryu. One of the highlights of the event was the granting of the honorable and traditional Kyoshi certification to Pascal Kaufmann, a member of the SBIF committee. As is customary in these events, the ceremony was carried out with the spirit of respect and humility characteristic of Japanese culture.
This second congress marked an important step in the expansion of Nihon Iaido, Nihon Karatejutsu, and Kempojutsu in Europe, particularly in France, where the responsibility for carrying this project forward falls on the new directors and masters who, guided by the philosophy and values of SBIF, will continue to work to preserve the spirit of Budo.
With this event, Seibukan Budo continues to grow, as does the commitment to teamwork and maintaining the vision of the SBIF federation worldwide. The congress was not only a celebration of knowledge and technique but also an opportunity to renew the commitment to traditions and strengthen relationships within the international martial arts community. The 3rd congress of Seibukan Budo - International Seibukan Budo Federation (SBIF) is scheduled to take place in 2027.
