Weldon Mauney and Brian Levy Sensei(s) in New Orleans May 30-June 1

Weldon Mauney Sensei, 5th Dan, studied under Hiroshi Kato Sensei from 1998-2012. He received his kyu testing, first, second and third degree black belts under Kato Sensei. After Kato sensei’s passing in 2012, he received fourth degree blackbelt under Seiji Ido sensei in 2015, and his fifth degree blackbelt from Aikikai Hombu Dojo in 2024. He started Wing Chun initially under Sifu Chris Damiano and for the last several years has been studying under Sifu Gary Lam. His Aikido is both sharp and gentle and characterized by beautiful spirals, efficient footwork, and a joyful concentrated connection with his partners. He is interested in how his Aikido and Wing Chun practices can artfully interact.

Brian Levy Sensei, 5th Dan, is Chief Instructor/Dojo Cho of NOLA Aikido in New Orleans and has been practicing Aikido for over 30 years in the US, Europe and Japan. He has also pursued in-depth studies of other arts, including Qigong, Tai Chi and Daito-ryu Aikijujitsu. Endo Seishiro Shihan, Jan Nevelius Shihan, Jorma Lyly Shihan, and Seigo Okamoto Soshi have provided him with guidance, inspiration and creativity on his Aiki path. He places a strong emphasis on connection, gentleness, and effortless movement, as well as the joy of moving beyond the known into the surprising creativity of this moment.