Hanshi Ridgley Abele

[WillowPineBudo]

Ridgely Abele began his Karatedo and Kobudo training in 1964 in Miami, Florida, under the direction of John Pachivas then later under Robert Trias. In 1971, he was certified to teach Karatedo and Kobudo and in 1982, Robert A. Trias appointed Abele as Chief Instructor of Shuri-ryu. He travels, trains and teaches extensively throughout the USA, Canada, Europe, Japan, Hong Kong & China.

His brother, Eddie Abele, was a top-rated kickboxer in South Florida in the early 1980s. Eddie won his first 12 bouts by knockout, and went on to a 16-1-1 record with 15 knockout wins.

Abele has produced over 260 black belts throughout the world and maintains schools in Europe and the United States. Abele is a member of the Inner Council for the International Shuri-Ryu Assoc. He is the founder of the International Shurite Yudansha-Kai, a worldwide organization of black belts dedicated to the research and development of Karatedo, Jujutsu & Kobudo. Abele was elected to the Trias International Society as one of the most spirited fighters in the country.

On December 10, 2009, at approximately 10:15AM EST, Ridgely Abele passed away as a result of complications stemming partly from an earlier pneumonia infection.

[X_plosion]

I remember reading that he was active in the early days of American Karate.

May Mr. Abele Rest In Peace.

[Rob Alvelais]

This truly is sad. Ridgley was a good man. He was an outstanding sensei/coach, referee and friend. He will be missed.