Are there any high-ranking kendoka who aren't Japanese?

Question

I know there are several non-Japanese who are 4th dan in kendo, probably quite a few who are 5th dan, and possibly even a couple 6th dan. But somehow I suspect there are few, if any, above that level. Are there any non-Japanese who are 7th or (highly unlikely) 8th dan? Have there ever been? Can you provide any names, links? Thanks.

Answer 1

Good question-I think it's tough for non-Japanese to make to the very top level of kendo because it's hard to make a career out of kendo outside of Japan. Whereas Japanese organizations like the National Police Agency go out of their way to hire talented kendoka and then give them time off to compete and train. So I don't have any specific information, but one reason non Japanese have a tough time competing at the top levels of kendo has to do with the fact they mostly need a day job.