The Crossville Isshinryu Karate Academy (CIKA) recently completed a successful summer circuit, bringing home multiple tournament titles and prestigious honors from across the state throughout July and early August 2026.

Major Highlights and Awards

• Hall of Fame Recognition: Master Ben Gibson was named the Isshinryu Hall of Fame Instructor of the Year, while Master Tim Sherrill was named a finalist for the same award. Sensei Gary Howard was also honored as a finalist for the Harold Mitchum Humanitarian Award.

• National & State Competition Wins: Students and instructors secured top placements at both the Isshinryu Hall of Fame Tournament and the Tennessee State Karate Championship in Baxter, with standout performances from Master Marty Robbins, Lucas Hurst, and student competitors like Sadie Baker, who captured 1st place in both Kata and Kumite.

• Continuing Education: Academy instructors and leadership also sharpened their craft by attending the Traditional Okinawan Karate Association (TOKA) Annual Conference in Pigeon Forge.

“The combination of training, competition, and fellowship helps develop not only better martial artists but better people,” noted CIKA Head Instructor Master Marty Robbins.

CIKA continues to offer local students practical self-defense training while building character, discipline, and community leadership both on and off the dojo floor.