Thunderbolts

Shaolin Kenpo had its beginning in the legendary Shaolin Temple of China many hundreds of years ago. The temple training emphasized the highest ideals of morals, of conduct, and of martial arts skills. The students of the temple's martial arts instructors were respected throughout China for their excellent character as well as for their skills.

The tradition of the Shaolin Temple has continued through the centuries and even today the temple physically exists, and its instructors train students in the martial arts and in temple philosophy. Students of Shaolin Kenpo should keep in mind the proud heritage of the Shaolin Temple and should think and act in accordance with the same high ideals that inspired those students of long ago ideals that still motivate the students of today.

Let us always remember that Shaolin Kenpo goes well beyond the attainment of specific martial arts movements. Mental discipline and high moral character are a very important aspect of the training.

We should all be proud representatives of Shaolin Kenpo at all times -- in word, thought, and deeds.

Those who successfully participate in the Thunderbolts training are the karate equivalent of the Special Forces developed by the armed services, such as the Navy SEALS and the Army Green Berets. Like those famous units, they will have outfits that distinguish them and will have the benefit of specialized training. Unlike the service units, however, their training will be for the twin purpose of improved self-defense of themselves (and others) as well as for the finest possible instruction of students of karate.

Thunderbolts will be proud of a karate heritage, which dates back to their predecessors at the Shaolin Temple ages ago.

When they give an exhibition, it will compare in spirit with those given by the Air Force Thunderbirds and the Navy Blue Angels - excellence in action.

They will know that their efforts will be of great benefit to themselves and to others, in the finest traditions of the martial arts. 

We are the Thunderbolts.

We strike like lightning - powerfully and to the mark.

In our training, and in our teaching, we will always remain true to the principles of Shaolin Kenpo and of our Great Grandmaster Ralph Castro.

To our Great Grandmaster we pledge our full loyalty and support.

To our students we dedicate ourselves to properly instruct them on all aspects of their training.

We will ever strive to be living examples of the best within the Shaolin Kenpo System.

We will constantly seek to attain ever-higher levels of skill in Shaolin Kenpo and in our teaching.

WE ARE THE THUNDERBOLTS!

The Thunderbolts Logo was created by the late John Subido. It integrates the visual scheme for the Thunderbolts' Program.

The triangular configuration represents our Great Grandmaster as the innovator. He represents the principles of speed, the diverse theories of motion and to symbolize strength and balance.

The lightning bolt and the fist are representative of the Shaolin Kenpo system.

The dual significance stresses the harmony of speed, accuracy and power.

Through the union of these symbols, it evokes the image of a dominant force reminding us of the growth, development and accomplishments of the Thunderbolts' Program.

Return to ISKA Home Page