Interview with Russell McCartney, Aikidoist and Swordsman
(Extract from US Martial Arts Association newsletter dated 19th May 2002.)

Russell McCartney began in Karate 33 years ago. Over twenty years ago he began his study of the sword and Aikido. In 1986 he dedicated himself to a full-time pursuit of swords deeper principles and higher technical expressions. As Founder and Chief Instructor of Ishi Yama Ryu Battojutsu, his schools of Japanese style swordsmanship have begun to spread around the world. His development of techniques and specific teaching and training methods for the practice allowed him to set the new and previously unbroken 'world record for target test cutting' in April 2000. Mr. McCartney is also a multiple Hall of Fame inductee as "Founder of the Year" and holds the rank of 7th dan with the USMA.

USMA:   How did you become interested in learning the martial arts?

McCartney:   I was fascinated with gymnastics as a teenager. The school I attended didn't have any programs like that and Karate was the next closest thing in the small town area I grew up in.

USMA:   Who was the person that had the greatest impact on you in the martial arts?

McCartney:   I would have to say my brother Rick who got me into it and encouraged me at pivotal moments along the way. He encouraged me to be ready to accept opportunities, knowing that I like a good challenge.

USMA:   Of the martial arts you have studied, which is your favorite?

McCartney:   My first love in the arts will always be the sword. There is something primal yet very sophisticated about the technical clarity required to handle three feet of razorblade. At high levels of activity there is no margin for error and that has an appeal all its own and with the proper instruction it is very safe.

USMA:   How have the martial arts changed since you began your training?

McCartney:   This is a two fold answer. First, even though it has changed, it still gives the participants the opportunity for personal growth beyond every other endeavor out there. Secondly, the concept that "to understand the future we must study the past" must not be forgotten. The 'principles' that the arts were founded on are sometimes displaced for instant gratification. Though I am a traditionalist at heart there is a place for practical innovation if it works and is proven effective.

USMA:   What keeps you motivated and interested in the Martial Arts even after all these years? Any advise for others on this?

McCartney:   I am compelled to see the deeper meaning in the activity. Sometimes its obvious sometimes not and that is intriguing to me. It is also terrific exercise for the mind and body. As for "advise"- growing old is not for wimps. Training the arts strengthens us for the inevitable disappointments and as well as the joys of life, both mentally and physically.

USMA:   What do you see for the future of the martial arts in the US?

McCartney:   I hope for a more traditional approach to re-emerge. One that is less focused on the flash of winning and more on the brotherhood and respect for traditions, old and new ones, as well as the innovative ways the martial arts philosophies are presented in general. I believe this will instill more worldly human values and give people a greater respect for themselves rather than arrogant ego related behavior. Events like the USMA National Training Camp, the Hall of Fame and some other events here in America,
give more exposure to the arts and people than ever before. The best attitudes and practitioners will naturally matriculate to the top.
It is a natural law that those at the other end of the scale will either adapt or become extinct. Still the arts are so diverse there must be something for everyone. That is the beauty of this art form.

USMA:   Any final thoughts or comments?

McCartney:    Train hard, live with a mind conscious of right, and have the courage to be more than the sum of our experiences.

USMA:   Thank you so much for your time...see you in St. Louis!

Last updated on 13 Sep 2002