Carlos Viveros (Mudan)
(His Excellency the Ambassador)

What was your original motivation to start Kyudo?

Ever since Sensei Blackwell mentioned Kyudo I've been interested in it. However, I didn't think I had what it takes to train in it. Then at Judo Camp of 2007, I saw sensei do a Kyudo demonstration, it was very, very impressive to see all that power so well tempered, then I really got interested but I knew I really didn't have what it takes. About a year later, I mentioned to sensei my experience from the judo camp and he told me I should start and to remember that it took him several years to get to his current level. So, I started training.

What do you now enjoy most about Kyudo?

My current bow is a great bow, at least once per training session it gives me, what I call, a great shot. The one shot that makes me very happy for some reason, even though I usually miss the target. The sensation is so vague and new to me it is still hard to put it in words. It's like everything stops for a second, or like I can hear everything without hearing anything in particular... or something along those lines. In any case, the feeling of that "total awareness" shot is great! that's what I enjoy most about kyudo.

What is your favorite movie?

Macario (old black & white Mexican movie)
Anything by Hayao Miyasaki

What is your favorite book?

"Macario" by Bruno Traven (the book that inspired the movie)
"Del Amor y otros Demonios" by Gabriel Garcia Marques (Of love and other demons)

How would you describe yourself in 5 words or less?

Loyal, Hedonist, Geek

What other Martial Arts have you practiced? 

Tae Kwon Do (about 15 years ago)
Judo
Aikido

What are your other outside interests and hobbies?

Anime, Video Games, Books, Music (listening) 

If you could meet someone (dead or alive) who would it be and why?

No-one in particular. I'm happy with the people in my life now... and always.