Rae's Karate

My name is Rae Manela and I am passionate about Karate. Specifically, I practice Isshinryu Karate, a traditional style originating on the island of Okinawa. 

I started my martial arts career with my dad teaching me a few Aikido techniques when I was a kid. Later, after a winter sports camp experience I started to learn Tang Soo do from Jay Penfil. After college, I moved home and as an adult started studying Isshinryu Karate under Grand Masters Z and Chris Szelap. I received my 1st degree black belt in 2018 and I am now a 3rd degree black belt and sensei. I'm currently practicing and continuing my education under Grand Master Holloway. 

I have over 1,000 teaching hours in the dojo, but I know I still have a lot to learn. I have competed in Tournaments in Michigan, Tennessee, Maryland and Pennsylvania. In 2019 I was named Female Karate Ka of the year by the Isshinryu Hall of Fame. I have also been nominated in the top 5 in various other categories. 

In 2023 I was fortunate enough to take a trip to Japan with my mom, ending our trip with a short stay in Okinawa where I made sure to run all 8 of my Isshinryu Katas in the birthplace of karate! 

Outside of karate I am a librarian. I have a MLIS and a Masters in Public History. I was a school librarian for 2 years before becoming a public librarian and archivist. I am passionate about reading, history, and preservation. My Masters project was an oral history project with Isshinryu Masters.  Click the button below to learn more!