Sensei Nathan Lentz
Sensei Nathan Lentz was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He began his training in Shorin-Ryu Karate in the 5th grade at North Side Karate under Tim Davies, a 5th degree black belt of Sensei Jim Hawkes. He trained with Mr. Davies for three and half years and achieved the rank of Go-Kyu. Unfortunately, Nate was no longer able to train after his father passed away in 1995. In early 2002 he returned to karate, this time at Jim Hawkes Karate under Sensei Hawkes and Sensei Lee Kittell. Within a few months he was working with the Dojo’s afterschool program as an instructor. In 2004 he was promoted to shodan (1st degree black belt). He went on to become the manager of the dojo for a few years, but went back to just teaching with the birth of his first son. In 2012 he became a member of the Seki Ryu Kai (Red Dragon Society), a group of Sensei Jim Hawkes’ most spirited fighters and martial artists.
With more than 25 years of experience, Sensei Nathan is a 4th degree black belt in Shorin-Ryu Karate and a 3rd degree black belt in Okinawan Kenpo Kobudo (traditional karate weapons). He is a current member of the United States Association of Martial Artists (www.USAMartialArtists.org), a former member of the United States Karate Alliance (www.USKA.net), a former USKA National and World Champion, a USKA Jr All-American, a contributing instructor at a USKA “school of the year” (2005), and an instructor of several USAMA & USKA National, Grand International and World Champions.
Harry Stockton – Assistant Instructor
Hi. While I grew up in Oklahoma, my wife and I have lived in Albuquerque’s westside for over
23 years. In that time, I’ve spent over 20 years in the martial arts, and teaching for 19 of them.
Currently, I’m a Nidan (2nd degree black belt) under Sensei Nathan Lentz here at Sun Mesa
Karate.
What I love about karate is how much depth it has. Sure, there’s striking, but the real stuff also
has grappling, joint locks, throws; way more than what you see in tournaments. Plus, there’s an
internal martial art side that many people never get to experience.
I’ve trained in many different styles: Kenpo, Kung Fu, Tai Chi, Aikido, Escrima, and Jeet Kune
Do. What I’ve discovered is while there are slight differences there are far more things in
common.
I’m also a retired Air Force Reserve Officer and currently working as a civilian with the
Department of the Air Force.
What does all that mean for you? When you get stuck, no worries I likely have three different
ways to explain it. Personally, my karate focuses on balance, the personal growth and journey
(known as Do) AND Jutsu, the practical application (how to actually use it).
My favorite part about teaching and training in karate? That moment when a student’s eyes light
up and it all clicks. Whether you are 6 years or 60 years old, it’s AMAZING every time.
So, if you’re a parent looking for that perfect dojo, you’re nervous about starting, just getting
back into training, or looking for advanced concepts, we’re here to meet you on your journey.
Ready to see what complete karate training looks like? Come check us out.