Kiryu Aikido Recognizes Senior Instructor Les Steveson for 2,500-Hour Milestone and Dedication

Les Steveson, Senior Instructor with Kiryu Aikido, Colorado, was recently honored for reaching the significant achievement of training more than 2,500 hours so far on his Aikido journey. But the award was about more than sheer hours of practice.

Andrew Blevins Sensei honors Les Steveson Sensei for more than 2,500 hours of training and his dedication to the dojo.                                             

Andrew Blevins Sensei, Chief Instructor and founder of Kiryu Aikido, presented Steveson Sensei with a certificate and plaque. During the presentation after class, he shared his gratitude for Steveson Sensei’s long-term and steadfast commitment to both Kiryu Aikido and his own Aikido training.

“Steveson Sensei has been training with me since 1999, when I was Chief Instructor at another dojo in Denver,” he said. “When I left that dojo in 2003 to open Kiryu Aikido, Steveson Sensei came with me. He holds Student #1 on the dojo roster, and he’s been an integral part of this dojo since day one.”

Steveson Sensei began his Aikido studies in 1996 in Dillon, Colorado, under the direction of Meno Sensei of Suncoast Aikido, who is affiliated with Yamada Sensei, Eastern Region of the United States Aikido Federation. He trained there three years before moving to Denver and starting practice with Andrew Blevins Sensei.

Andrew Blevins Sensei shares thanks and memories of Les Steveson Sensei’s long-term support and friendship.

“Your dedication to training and tireless support of the dojo, combined with your martial spirit and encouraging leadership, have helped forge the spirit and heart of Kiryu Aikido,” added Blevins Sensei as he presented the plaque. “Thank you for always being there, and for sharing your love of Aikido through teaching the Kiryu Aikido team. My deepest thanks for all you do.”

Andrew Blevins Sensei and Les Steveson Sensei, Kiryu Aikido.