The Gathering of Eagles 1999, also known as, “Once In A Lifetime”, was held at the Tropicana Hotel and Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada, on February 5, February 6, and February 7, 1999.
Many masters and leaders in Kenpo gathered to unite Kenpo and explain to history, where the Kenpo style grew from in the early days in Hawaii under James Mitose. Many different paths have been pursued and still exist between all noted Kenpo masters.
Many masters were celebrated with GGM Al Tracy and were awarded special rings to commemorate this occasion in Las Vegas. GGM Tracy thought this was the time to unite the style of Kenpo by organizing and undertaking this great weekend event. The many seminars were well attended and the banquet hall on Saturday night was completely filled for the festivities. This event was a great show of respect for all the stand alone Kenpo systems, showing they all could be joined together to share in the history of Kenpo.
On a side note…….Mr. Tracy turned to Rebecca Mornar, early Sunday morning, the last day seminars, and said, “ Becky, get ready to do three seminars. Long six, Tiger and Crane and Two Person Set. By the way, you’re up in 10 minutes!” So I grabbed four of my black belts and said, “You’re coming with me!” And so we went, where I was so happy to have the opportunity to teach seminars at the GOE 1999 and forever grateful to have been given this opportunity at the time.
Even though the first gathering was meant to be once in a lifetime, GGM Tracy decided to make them continuing events. That started our exciting journey working with GGM Tracy in helping to organize the other gatherings throughout the years, while he was still living.
More accountings of these times to follow…..
