AGILITY, skill, strength, speed essential skills for the martial art of kendo, based on ancient samurai sword-fighting techniques.

But the vital attribute that will take you to the top is passion.

Just ask Sensei Katsumi Kuramochi.

"I love it, it is my life," he said. "It keeps me going."

Mr Kuramochi has just attained the rank of 7th dan, the highest level in Australia.

It's a feat his students at the Cairns Kendo Club are in awe of.

"Sensei Kuramochi is one of the finest and highest-graded kendo teachers in Australia, and he continuously shares his knowledge with us," wrote club member Lewis Marhin and his colleagues.

"He is one of only two people in Australia who has reached the level of 7th dan."

Born in Japan, Mr Kuramochi began practising kendo at the age of 13.

He moved to Australia in 1992, and in 1996 was the winner of the Australian National Kendo Championship.

He travelled and introduced the art of kendo throughout the east coast of Australia, but in 2001 he chose Cairns as his home and established the Cairns Kendo Club, of which he is president.

Mr Kuramochi, 60, is now training for his 8th dan, the highest level in the sport.

"It will take me 10 years," he said, with a gentle laugh. For more information on the Cairns Kendo Club visit cairnskendo.com.au

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