WKF First Vice President José García Maañón received “The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon” for his contribution to the development of Karate in Argentina and for his involvement in strengthening the relationships between Japan and Argentina. 

WKF First Vice President José García Maañón received “The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon” for his contribution to the development of Karate in Argentina and for his involvement in strengthening the relationships between Japan and Argentina.

One of the most prestigious recognitions bestowed by the government of Japan, The Order of the Rising Sun is awarded to individuals who have made remarkable achievements in promoting Japanese culture and international relations.

Mr Maañón who is WKF first Vice President, Pan American Karate Federation President and also heads the Argentina Karate Federation was honoured with the decoration at a special ceremony which was held at the Japanese Embassy in Buenos Aires. Japanese Ambassador in Argentina Takahiro Nakamae presented the WKF official with the recognition for his “hard work and commitment in creating an indelible mark in the relations of friendship between Japan and Argentina”.

“It is a very special day for me, and I am profoundly honoured to receive the Order of the Rising Sun. I feel committed to further develop the sport of Karate, which is my passion, as well as the culture of the Japanese people,” said Maañón at the ceremony.

“My sensei arrived in Argentina in 1966 and passed away seven years later. In this time, he did not just transmit Karate’s techniques but also the values and essence of this martial art, as well as the culture of Japan. Today, after 54 years of practice, I am still engaged in spreading the values of this millenary culture,” added the WKF official who also acts as President of the Argentinian Olympic Committee.

(Top Picture: WKF First Vice President José García Maañón (right) receives the Order of the Rising Sun from Japanese Ambassador in Argentina Takahiro Nakamae. Pictures by Embassy of Japan in Argentina)

The special ceremony was held at the Japanese Embassy in Buenos Aires.

WKF First Vice President José García Maañón addresses the audience at the ceremony.