The Martial Arts History Museum's Official Martial Arts Hall of Fame        Funakoshi Award     Gichin Funakoshi was one of the most influential figures of his generation. He contributions to the martial arts were monumental. Founder of the art of Shotokan, Funakoshi introduced his art to Japan and the rest of the world. He is considered by many as the Father of Modern Karate.     Because of his enormous contributions, it seemed only fitting that the Martial Arts History Museum name the Contribution Award as the Funakoshi Award.     The Funakoshi Award is bestowed once a year at the Museum Ceremony in Los Angeles. It is awarded to an individual who is recognized for their enormous and continuous contributions to the martial arts community.  Though the recipient may be an accomplished martial artist, the Funakoshi Award is given to an individual because his contributions are more tremendous.      The Museum has the honor of selecting this individual each year. The Funakoshi recipient is considered a Member of the Hall of Fame and carries all voting rights in the Hall of Fame selection process.      The official Martial Arts Hall of Fame began in 1999 and the Funakoshi Award was created in 2002.     The Martial Arts History Museum is very proud to present the Hall of Fame Funakoshi Award winners: 2002 - Nancy Kwan Nancy opened the doors for Asian actors in America in the early 1900s. A Tai Chi practitioner, Nancy became the first Asian headliner in the World of Suzie Wong and the Flower Drum Song. Because of her contributions in film, all Asian performers owe her  much gratitude. 2003 - Art Camacho Art Camacho has been an action choreographer and action film director for several decades.  He was one of the first to bring martial arts techniques into non-martial arts productions.  He has opened the doors for martial arts in both action and fantasy. He is also one of the key individuals for starting the Museum. 2004 - John Corcoran John is the most accomplished and successful editor in the martial arts industry. He has not only been the editor-in-chief of every major martial arts magazine, he is considered one of the greatest martial arts historians in the world.  He has authored numerous books and has been the primary force in keeping the tradition and history of the arts alive.      Each year, the previous Funakoshi Award winners are asked to present the award in the Museum Ceremony. It is a great honor to receive this award.