OCTOBER 2010
Master Maroteaux visited Romania in early October with Serge Charlopeau, General Secretary of the E.S.Ta.M. (European Sobukaï Takeda-Ryu Maroto-ha), at the invitation of his students, In order to upgrade his school in this country, and lead a training course.
Upon his arrival in Bucharest, he met the President of the Romanian Aïkido Federation, M. Dan IONESCU 8th dan, author of five wonderful works that he has known for over twenty years, which refers of teaching of the french master Daniel Brown 9th dan. The discussion focused on the need for Takeda-ryu, to be officially recognized by the Ministry of Sports, while preserving all its prerogatives.
The benefits in this country would be more consistent and better publicized.
Then he went to Rosiori de Vede with Liviu Voiculeanu 4th dan. Master Maroteaux was officially welcomed by the Mayor of this city of 30,000 residents, Mr. Ioan Nutu, and the City Council. The event was widely publicized by a dozen of local and regional media (press, radio and TV).
The meeting to join the F.R.A. took place in the Council Chamber of City Hall, freely available, with the technical advisor and responsibles of the Romanian branch of Takeda-ryu Maroto-ha.
After three hours of discussion, the Takeda-Ryu Maroto-ha group decided, to unanimity, to be officially recognized in this country.
Therefore, Master Maroteaux established the first Romanian National Committee of Takeda-Ryu Ranks, like France, Morocco, Belgium and Cuba.