NEWS ARCHIVE
2021
New Dojo opening.
We are pleased to announce the opening of a new Dojo run by James Binding.
James recently joined us having achoeved his first Dan with the JKF Wadokai.
Now living in Cornwall he was referred to Kenkyukai by George Grimes Kyoshi.
See our Dojo & fees page for more information and location.
We are pleased to announce the opening of a new Dojo run by James Binding.
James recently joined us having achoeved his first Dan with the JKF Wadokai.
Now living in Cornwall he was referred to Kenkyukai by George Grimes Kyoshi.
See our Dojo & fees page for more information and location.
New affiliation
Following discussion with our members we have resigned from the IWF and have now affiliated to the British Karate Association.
Founded in 1964 the BKA is a multi style organisation providing independence for our Dojo as well as the required facilities for members and instructors alike.
British Karate Association
Following discussion with our members we have resigned from the IWF and have now affiliated to the British Karate Association.
Founded in 1964 the BKA is a multi style organisation providing independence for our Dojo as well as the required facilities for members and instructors alike.
British Karate Association
2018

Niseishi course Bristol, April 8th.
Adel Gibson and myself attended our first course this year with George Grimes Kyoshi, the theme of which was kata Niseishi. We were shown both versions of the kata as practised within the Wadoryu Renmei.
We then went on to practise some applications from the kata, but sadly as usual the time went all too quickly.
Lots of knowledge gained, and a nice insight into how the other Wado groups kata are practised.
G. Chuck.
Adel Gibson and myself attended our first course this year with George Grimes Kyoshi, the theme of which was kata Niseishi. We were shown both versions of the kata as practised within the Wadoryu Renmei.
We then went on to practise some applications from the kata, but sadly as usual the time went all too quickly.
Lots of knowledge gained, and a nice insight into how the other Wado groups kata are practised.
G. Chuck.
Minami Oka Dojo Kyu shinsa April 3rd 2018. Congratulations to Jack Ford on his promotion to 8th Kyu and to Georgia Hallett-Archer on her promotion to 7th Kyu. Jack recently joined the Dojo having trained in Shotokan many years ago and starting from beginner once more. The grading panel consisted of Minami Oka club instructor Adel Gibson 3rd Dan & Graham Chuck 7th Dan. Congratulations to you both! |
Pete Whitney's retirement.
My good friend Pete Whitney 7th Dan and chief instructor of the Swindon Oasis Higashi Karate Kai has announced his retirement from teaching Karate, aged 81! Pete began training in 1966, originally in Kempo Karate before joining the Higashi Karate Kai and changing to Wado. He had an extensive competition career before retiring from competition aged 40. I have had the pleasure of knowing Pete since the 11th of March 1983. The reason I remember the date so well? A friend, and fellow Karateka, and myself were visiting the Wiltshire town of Swindon for the weekend and I'd phoned Pete beforehand to ask if we could visit his club whilst we were there. No problem he said. Come Friday night we turned up at the Oasis sports centre and walked into a hall packed full of Karateka. We found Pete and introduced ourselves, he stood up and immediately made us welcome. After one of the best training sessions we'd had he invited us to join him and the club members for a drink. In that short time I knew I had to train at this club again, and we visited a few times after. A year later I had written to Pete for some addresses of clubs within Higashi. This led to me spening 13 happy years as a member of Higashi and during that time our friendship developed. My appreciation of him as an instructor involved making return journeys from Romford in Essex to Swindon and back just for a training session, and since relocating to Devon I've continued to make those visits accompanied by my students. After I left HKK we lost touch for a while, but fate brought us back together. I would visit his club whenever I could, sometimes taking some of my students along to train as well. One time that springs to mind was in 2000 when four Kenkyukai members and myself were going to visit pete's club for a session, en route to South Wales as I was teaching a course there that weekend. I'd left a message on Pete's answering machine to say we'd be visiting. When we walked into the Dojo Pete was nowhere to be seen, and upon asking I was told he was away for a week. However about 15 minutes into the session Pete walked in saying he'd just got back, heard my message and couldn't miss being there as we'd come all the way down. That's the type of man he is, loyal and dedicated. It's that loyalty and dedication to Karate in this country that saw him qualifying as a top class referee, travelling all over the country to help with the officiating at countless events, all for his love of Karate. He transferred that knowledge to others as chief referee for the HKK and I am proud, and honoured, to say that he was the person that taught me everything about being a Kumite referee. Pete I just want to say thank you for your valued friendship, the training, the knowledge and the inspiration that you have given me these last 35 years. Enjoy your retirement my good friend. Graham Chuck. Footnote: Pete contacted me and added that he has given up the running of the club regarding bookings, accounts etc but is still teaching on a Tuesday night! For more information visit http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/news/15924824.Karate_coach_Pete__81__gives_fighting_the_chop/ |
2017

Minami Oka Kyu shinsa August 8th 2017.
Congratulations to Georgia Hallett-Archer on a fine performance in achieving her 8th Kyu.
Further congratulations to her Sensei Adel Gibson for having her first graded student since she opened her own Dojo, Minami Oka Dojo in South Brent, last May.
Guest examiners were Dave Salmon 4th Dan and myself, and a very special thanks to Dave for travelling down.

Together again
Before the grading I had the pleasure of doing some training with Dave, who is one of my oldest friends in Karate.
During this time we looked at some Kata kaisetsu from Pinan Godan as well as some Ido kihon.
It has to be noted that we haven't trained together since 2001, so to get a Gi on and share some knowledge and work together with my good friend was an absolute pleasure!
Graham Chuck
Together again
Before the grading I had the pleasure of doing some training with Dave, who is one of my oldest friends in Karate.
During this time we looked at some Kata kaisetsu from Pinan Godan as well as some Ido kihon.
It has to be noted that we haven't trained together since 2001, so to get a Gi on and share some knowledge and work together with my good friend was an absolute pleasure!
Graham Chuck
Joint course, Bristol. April 9th 2017.
Kenkyukai members Adel Gibson, Josh Brown and Graham Chuck once again attended this informative and enjoyable course instructed by George Grimes 8th Dan & Tony Heap 8th Dan. However this time we were lucky to have Nick Quilliam 7th Dan instructing as well. Following one of Heap Sensei's warm ups we moved straight onto Ido kihon. Quilliam Sensei was up next where we looked at Kihon gumite Ipponme, especially the use of correct Maai and movement. Grimes Sensei then taught paired Kata from his new syllabus that concentrated on Nagashizuki. As usual the time went far too quickly, and after saying our goodbye's we left for home with a headful of knowledge. Our thanks always to these three eminent Wadoka for sharing their depth of knowledge with us, and for making us welcome. G. Chuck |
|
2016

Kenkyukai 20th anniversary course and Dan grading.
A small turn out for our course this year. However this didn't dampen the
enthusiasm for those that did manage to attend and the three instructors.
Much was covered, everyone enjoyed the training and we raised £205.00 for St Luke's hospice.
Following the course we held a Dan grading with the only applicant being Adel Gibson attempting Sandan
I am pleased to say she turned in a fine performance and was duly awarded the grade.
Congratulations Adel!
A big thank you to our guest instructors and examiners Gary Swift Kyoshi 8th Dan & Andy Dare Shihan 6th Dan, and to those that made the effort and travelled to our course.
A small turn out for our course this year. However this didn't dampen the
enthusiasm for those that did manage to attend and the three instructors.
Much was covered, everyone enjoyed the training and we raised £205.00 for St Luke's hospice.
Following the course we held a Dan grading with the only applicant being Adel Gibson attempting Sandan
I am pleased to say she turned in a fine performance and was duly awarded the grade.
Congratulations Adel!
A big thank you to our guest instructors and examiners Gary Swift Kyoshi 8th Dan & Andy Dare Shihan 6th Dan, and to those that made the effort and travelled to our course.

George Grimes 50 years in Wado course, Bristol
On the 10th of September I attended a course to mark Sensei George Grimes' 50th year in Wado.
It was a bit of a trip through time as George took us through some of the training methods from many years ago, including some rigorous kumite training, working with a partner to improve distance and timing and even a look at Sanbon gumite from the days when he trained under Suzuki Sensei.
Also present was George's long time friend Nick Quilliam Sensei who along with George shared a story or two about the 'old days'.
As a token of respect, and admiration I presented Sensei Grimes with a depiction of the kanji for Wadoryu that was written for me by Hokama Tetsuhiro in 1998. A great days training and learning had by all. Congratulations Grimes Sensei on behalf of us all at Kenkyukai.
G.Chuck.

Rob Smith 7th Dan promotion.
It gives me great pleasure to announce the promotion of my long time friend Rob Smith to 7th Dan.
I have had the pleasure of knowing Rob for well over 30 years and in that time we have trained and graded together as members of both the English Karate Association and the Higashi Karate Kai.
Rob was a founding member of the Western Karate Union in 2003, and it was they who awarded him 7th Dan.
From the members of the Wadoryu Karatedo Kenkyukai and myself our heartfelt congratulations on your well deserved promotion Rob!

Congratulations
To Kylie Eccles on assessing to 6th Kyu tonight.
A very good performance of both the required
syllabus and knowledge, showing plenty of spirit
and determination.
Well Done Kylie!
Congratulations
To Kylie Eccles on assessing to 6th Kyu tonight.
A very good performance of both the required
syllabus and knowledge, showing plenty of spirit
and determination.
Well Done Kylie!
Peter Hall 7th Dan promotion
Tonight we were privileged to receive another visit to our Dojo from my former Sensei Peter Hall and his students. I have known Peter since 1984 when I began training at his club in Harold Hill, Essex, which at the time was a member of the Higashi Karate Kai. Since that time a lot has happened, including Peter relocating to the Southwest of England, forming his own association Nishido Karate Kai in 1992, achieving a Doctorate in Chinese medicine and further relocating to Portugal where he continues to teach Karate and practice Acupuncture & Shiatsu. Peter began his Karate journey in 1969 under the tutelage of Peter Spanton. He has also trained with many other eminent Sensei in his time, both Japanese and British, whilst as a member of the BKA. His 47 years of dedication, continued study and personal development was marked by him being awarded 7th Dan from the International Wado Federation. It was an immense honour for me to present him with this well deserved award on behalf of the IWF in recognition for all that he has achieved, and I must add that personally I know of no one more deserving. During the 32 years I have known Peter he has always been a Sensei and friend, and I will always be grateful for the knowledge he has shared with me and for his friendship. My thanks to Trevor Edney for bringing Peter to our Dojo, and for keeping it a secret! Graham Chuck |
2015
Joint Wado course, Hogarth, London. 7th November. For the third consecutive year I made the trip to the Wado Karate Union's hombu dojo in Hogarth west London for another joint course with Sensei's Tony Heap 8th Dan & George Grimes 8th Dan. As usual a lot was covered in three hours. The class began with Heap sensei teaching Ido kihon and renraku waza whilst stressing the internal and external body connection. This was followed by some stretching and exercises taken from Tony's deep knowledge of Yoga. Grimes sensei then introduced some paired kata from his kyu grade syllabus. First performed as Tai no ido, then with a partner. These all involved the concepts and movement that make Wadoryu more than simply a style of Karate. Heap sensei then took us through some Kumite gata, which is something I always enjoy, not only in their practise, but also in the way Tony explains and demonstrates them. Following these it was back to Grimes sensei who showed us some more pair work involving kata kaisetsu. Even though the 3 hours felt like a lot more time had been spent training due to the amount we had covered it was sadly the end of the course. As ever I had so much to take away and digest on the long journey home, and I look forward to sharing it with the members of Kenkyukai. My gratitude as always to both sensei's Tony Heap & George Grimes for sharing their knowledge and making me welcome. Graham Chuck |
Joint Wado course, Bristol. On Sunday the 13th of September Kenkyukai members Josh Brown, Adel Gibson and Graham Chuck travelled to Bristol to attend another excellent Wado course with Sensei George Grimes and Sensei Tony Heap. A good days training during which we covered Tai no ido, Ido kihon, Chinto kata and it's kaisetsu, Kumite gata and Sanbon gumite. So much was learnt from these two fine instructors and this will be practised and researched within our Dojo. I must also add that I had the pleasure of being introduced to and chatting with Sensei Nick Quilliam, who is a long time friend of Sensei Heap and Sensei Grimes. Thank you to sensei Grimes and Heap for sharing their knowledge and sensei Les Giles for his help and input. |
|
Course with Barry Tatlow, Crewkerne. On the 18th of July both myself and my good friend Richard House of British Wadokai Karate visited Crewkerne Karate club to attend a course with Barry Tatlow 8th Dan, chief instructor of the Phoenix Karate Association. Richard was originally a student of Barry's many years ago before relocating to Devon, and I have had the pleasure of knowing Barry for many years. We covered a lot in 3 hours, made many new friends and were made very welcome by club instructor Steve Hooper. |
Wadoryu Karatedo Kenkyukai Open Wado Course. Not the biggest turn-out for our annual course but with 16 people making it we had plenty of room to train and with the warm temperature it was comfortable. Instructors for the day were Gary Swift, Andy Dare, Peter Mills & Graham Chuck. Of the 16 training we had 8 brown belts and 8 black belts, so a nice even mix and everyone had a partner to work with. During the day the various instructors covered principals of the application & movement of Shuto uke, Kumite gata, Kata Kaisetsu, locking techniques, Ippon gumite and Kumite waza. Everyone attending thoroughly enjoyed themselves, knowledge was shared and friendships renewed & made. A special mention to Richard Selby of the South Wales Karatedo Wadokai who graded to 1st Dan. Congratulations on a spirited and overall good performance. The beneficiary of our course was once again St Luke's hospice and we managed to raise £270.00. I would like to thank our guest instructors and everyone who attended. Those that promised to attend but didn't turn up missed a good day, sadly their loss. (injured persons excluded)! Those in attendance: Adel Gibson & Joshua Bennett Brown (Kenkyukai), Harry Barton & Sam Barton, Richard House & Trevor Wickett (British Wadokai), Lottie Van Wolferen, Steve Stephen Wells-Burr & Natalie Wells-Burr (England Wadokai Karatedo Renmei), Ian Clarke, Darren Thorn, Bradley Carlton, Glen Pipero, Dionis Pipero & Lewis Thomas (Kimesanchin). |
Joint Wado course Bristol March 22nd.
Kenkyukai member Adel Gibson and myself attended a joint Wado course in Bristol with George Grimes Kyoshi 8th Dan and Tony Heap Sensei 8th Dan. Once again these two respected and experienced Sensei had a lot to teach and share. The session began with Heap Sensei taking us for a warm up consisting of Renraku-waza coupled with some stretching exercises taken from Yoga, of which he is also a practitioner. We then moved on to Ido-kihon putting into practice the breathing and internal movement we had practiced in the warm up. Grimes Kyoshi then took us through some very interesting Kaisetsu from Pinan Nidan which gave everyone a deeper understanding of movement and application of this kata. After a short break which gave me time to catch up with some old friends including Graham Evans (from Merthyr Tydfil where I trained for a while) we then went on to practice a good few Kumite gata with Heap Sensei, giving us an insight into applied Wado movement. A lot was learnt in the space of three hours, and we look forward to training with these two fine Wadoka again. Details of all forthcoming courses are available on our calendar page G. Chuck. |
2014
Dedication award
Kenkyukai member Adel Gibson was recently awarded a certificate to commemorate her ten years membership of the Wadoryu Karatedo Kenkyukai. Adel began training in November 2004 and has been a dedicated member during that time, training with many well known Wado Sensei, and continues to work hard towards developing and improving herself. Congratulations to you Adel, and here's to the next ten years. |
Hogarth Training course with Tony Heap Sensei
& George Grimes Kyoshi. I travelled to the WKU Hombu Dojo on Saturday the 1st of November to attend another course hosted by Tony Heap Sensei with George Grimes Kyoshi also instructing. Like last years visit a lot was covered, including Ido Kihon, Kata kaisetsu from Nai Hanchi and Kumite gata. Tony Heap & George Grimes are two of the best European Sensei I have had the pleasure to train with, and their knowledge and understanding of Wado comes with nearly 100 years experience between them. I will be attending the same course again next year, and even though it is a long journey it is well worth the time and effort. I would like to thank both Tony & George for their time and for always making me welcome. Further details of this course for 2015, and other courses with these eminent Sensei are always advertised on the calendar page. G. Chuck |

Congratulations
to WKU chief instructor Alan Flook on his recent promotion to 8th Dan.
Alan is one of the UK's top Kumite coaches, leading to numerous national
& international successes for the students of both the Bristol Karate club
and the WKU alike.
Having been training for well over 40 years his dedication to Karate and
the development of the WKU since it's inception in 2003 more than
justifies this achievement.
I have had the pleasure of knowing Alan for over 30 years and in that
time he has always been dedicated, patient and friendly, giving his best
to anyone who trains with him.
Heartiest congratulations from myself and the members of the
Wadoryu Karatedo Kenkyukai.
G. Chuck
to WKU chief instructor Alan Flook on his recent promotion to 8th Dan.
Alan is one of the UK's top Kumite coaches, leading to numerous national
& international successes for the students of both the Bristol Karate club
and the WKU alike.
Having been training for well over 40 years his dedication to Karate and
the development of the WKU since it's inception in 2003 more than
justifies this achievement.
I have had the pleasure of knowing Alan for over 30 years and in that
time he has always been dedicated, patient and friendly, giving his best
to anyone who trains with him.
Heartiest congratulations from myself and the members of the
Wadoryu Karatedo Kenkyukai.
G. Chuck

Dedication award.
Chief instructor & founder Graham Chuck Renshi 7th Danpresented Josh Brown Nidan
with a certificate to mark histen years as a member of the Wadoryu Karatedo Kenkyukai
on the 24th of February 2014.
Josh started with Kenkyukai in October 2003 and has beena loyal and dedicated member
who trains hard and has an ongoing thirst for knowledge, having trained with many eminent
Wado sensei during his time.
Josh obtained his second Dan on the Kenkyukai open Wado course on the 15th February 2014.
(see below)
Wadoryu Karatedo Kenkyukai open Wado course. Sadly the bad weather affected the attendance for this years course, with one of our guest instructors Peter Mills and his students unable to travel down, and Ian Clarke and his Kimesanchin members likewise unable to travel. However this didn't dampen the enthusiasm of those who did attend, although there were only nine people training the atmosphere was very positive, and our two guest instructor- Gary Swift Kyoshi 8th Dan & Andy Dare Sensei 6th Dan got everyone working hard, with Andy covering speed & intention of movement and Gary covering the traditional Idori of Wadoryu, whilst I covered using correct body movement coupled with relaxation to enhance what Andy was teaching. We also covered some paired Kata which involved the principles of Meoto-te, Kuzushi, Irimi and Nukeru. Following the course was a Yudan shinsa with Kenkyukai members Dean Smith attempting Shodan & Josh Brown attempting Nidan. I am happy to say they both done very well, and performed to the best of their ability on their way to passing. Well done Dean and Josh! Afterwards we all visited a local curry house for a welcome and very enjoyable meal. My sincere thanks to Andy and Gary for giving their time and knowledge, and to Adel Gibson Nidan who was unable to train due to injury but helped and assured that the day ran smoothly. Attending the course were: Dean Smith, Josh Brown (Kenkyukai), Richard House, George De Sousmarez, (British Wadokai) Darren Queenan (Mizuchi British Wadokai), Lotte Van Wolferen, Natalie Wells-Burr, Kirsty King, (Axminster & Chard SKW) and Trevor Wickett (Jikishin Jujitsu/British Wadokai). A total of £100.00 was raised for St Luke's hospice Plymouth. G. Chuck |

Congratulations
To Tony Heap Sensei on being awarded his 8th Dan by the English Karate Federation.
Sensei Heap has been training in Wado since 1967, and has a wealth of
experience as both a Karateka and as an instructor.
From all the members of the Wadoryu Karatedo Kenkyukai our sincerest congratulations to you Tony.
G. Chuck
2013
Hogarth Training course with George Grimes Kyoshi
& Tony Heap Sensei. On Saturday the 2nd November I drove to London to attend a course at Tony Heap's WKU Honbu Dojo, with both him and George Grimes Kyoshi instructing. We covered Ido Kihon utilising correct body movement with Heap Sensei who offers a holistic approach to his teaching. We then covered Pinan Yondan with an investigation into it's Kaisetsu with Grimes Kyoshi which was very enlightening, especially in it's application. Then it was back to Tony who took us through some Kumite Gata which again gives a deeper understanding of Wado. For a 3 hour course the 8 hour drive was worthwhile as I had learnt so much to take back with me, and just to make it more worthwhile after the course I visited a hostelry for some refreshment before popping over to Southall for some sustenance before the long drive back. A good day with so much learnt, I enjoyed the training immensely and was most impressed with Tony's Honbu Dojo! (See right). Thank you to George & Tony for always making me welcome and for sharing their knowledge. I will endeavour to visit forthcoming courses with these two fine instructors, both at Georges Bristol Dojo and Tony's Hogarth Dojo. May I also add my congratulations to Heap Sensei on his timely and well deserved promotion to 8th Dan. All course details will be on our calendar page. G Chuck. |

Ron Holt Hanshi.
It is with a very sad heart that I announce the recent passing of Ron Holt Hanshi 9th Dan.
Ron had been a practitioner of Martial arts for well over 60 years. In the 17 years that I knew him he was a true gentleman, a shining example of how a true Martial artist should conduct himself. Ron was always polite, humble and truly dedicated.
His funeral is to be held on Monday the 4th November. For full details please contact myself.
Thank you Hanshi for your friendship, your inspiration and your support. I and many others will miss you immensely.
Rest in peace Ron, our thoughts are with your loving family and all your friends.
Graham Chuck.
It is with a very sad heart that I announce the recent passing of Ron Holt Hanshi 9th Dan.
Ron had been a practitioner of Martial arts for well over 60 years. In the 17 years that I knew him he was a true gentleman, a shining example of how a true Martial artist should conduct himself. Ron was always polite, humble and truly dedicated.
His funeral is to be held on Monday the 4th November. For full details please contact myself.
Thank you Hanshi for your friendship, your inspiration and your support. I and many others will miss you immensely.
Rest in peace Ron, our thoughts are with your loving family and all your friends.
Graham Chuck.

Well Done
to Kenkyukai's Adel Gibson (2nd Dan) who completed the 10K Marine challenge at Lympstone in Devon on Saturday the 5th of October.
The course involved a 3 kilometre run followed by a 4 Kilometere assault course and then another 3 Kilometre run back.
Adel has raised nearly £200.00 for Devon air ambulance and the Royal Marines charitable trust fund.
If you wish to donate in order to support these worthwhile causes and show your support for Adel you can do so by visiting
www.justgiving.com/Adel-Gibson
Adel was not physically able to train on the following Monday!
to Kenkyukai's Adel Gibson (2nd Dan) who completed the 10K Marine challenge at Lympstone in Devon on Saturday the 5th of October.
The course involved a 3 kilometre run followed by a 4 Kilometere assault course and then another 3 Kilometre run back.
Adel has raised nearly £200.00 for Devon air ambulance and the Royal Marines charitable trust fund.
If you wish to donate in order to support these worthwhile causes and show your support for Adel you can do so by visiting
www.justgiving.com/Adel-Gibson
Adel was not physically able to train on the following Monday!

Bristol Wado course September.
Dean Smith Ikkyu and myself attended the open Wado course at Bristol on the 21st of September. Once again hosted by George grimes Kyoshi 8th Dan we also had the pleasure of training with guest instructor Tony Heap Shihan 7th Dan. (pictured with Dean).
Once again a knowledge packed three hours a lot was covered including Ido Kihon, Kaisetsu from Pinan Shodan and Kumite Gata.
The next course with these two eminent Wado Sensei who have near on a hundred years of training between them is at Heap sensei's Dojo in West London of the 2nd of November. I will be attending, further details on our calendar page.
G.Chuck
Dean Smith Ikkyu and myself attended the open Wado course at Bristol on the 21st of September. Once again hosted by George grimes Kyoshi 8th Dan we also had the pleasure of training with guest instructor Tony Heap Shihan 7th Dan. (pictured with Dean).
Once again a knowledge packed three hours a lot was covered including Ido Kihon, Kaisetsu from Pinan Shodan and Kumite Gata.
The next course with these two eminent Wado Sensei who have near on a hundred years of training between them is at Heap sensei's Dojo in West London of the 2nd of November. I will be attending, further details on our calendar page.
G.Chuck

Dedication award.
Wadoryu Karatedo Kenkyukai's chief instructor Graham Chuck Renshi 7th Dan
presents Dean Smith Ikkyu with a certificate to mark his ten years membership
on the 1st of June 2013. Dean originally started at our Kajuen Dojo in Gunnislake, Cornwall.
But after that Dojo sadly had to close he then continued his training at
the Kashi Besso Hombu Dojo in Plymouth. During those ten years Dean has been one of
Kenkyukai's most loyal and dedicated members.

Congratulations
to Charlotte Rockey on passing her 4th Kyu on the 27th of May 2013.
Charlotte's dedication & loyalty is well respected, as are her efforts in being Kenkyukai's press & publicity officer.
Well done Charlotte!

Instructors (seated)
with course members
Bristol Wado course March.
On the 10th of March Kenkyukai instructor Graham Chuck & Kenkyukai member Adel Gibson attended a course hosted by George Grimes Kyoshi 8th Dan with guest instructor Tony Heap Shihan 7th Dan.
We learnt a lot in just three hours, and definitely had a lot to take away and digest on the journey home. These two gentlemen have well over 80 years between them in Wado and have so much to teach. The next course with them both is on the calendar page, and I cannot recommend it highly enough for anyone who wishes to learn more about good Wado karate.
On the 10th of March Kenkyukai instructor Graham Chuck & Kenkyukai member Adel Gibson attended a course hosted by George Grimes Kyoshi 8th Dan with guest instructor Tony Heap Shihan 7th Dan.
We learnt a lot in just three hours, and definitely had a lot to take away and digest on the journey home. These two gentlemen have well over 80 years between them in Wado and have so much to teach. The next course with them both is on the calendar page, and I cannot recommend it highly enough for anyone who wishes to learn more about good Wado karate.
2012

Congratulations
To Dean Smith on passing his 1st Kyu on the 20th December 2012.
Dean is Kenkyukai's longest serving member, having originally started
at our Gunnislake Dojo in May 2003 aged seven & a quarter!
From all the members of the Wadoryu Karatedo Kenkyukai- Well done Dean!
Kenkyukai Anniversary Course Report- 23rd September 2012

Instructors & students on the course.
There are not many occasions that you can say that as a Kyu grade Karateka, you have witnessed your sensei taking his 7th Dan! Black belt gradings tend to be closed occasions, students waiting with baited breath outside of the dojo to hear the result of much hard work and spirit. This year, I feel very privileged to say I was there when Graham Chuck took his 7th Dan grading on the 23rd of September 2012.
The grading represented two and a half years of study, dedication and training to make the milestone, and it was a very emotional moment for us all. Filming the grading on a camcorder, I was lucky enough to see Sensei perform Kata and Yakosoku gumite, Kihon gumite, as well as Idori (kneeling defense) and Tantodori (knife defense). Watching him make his way through these techniques reminded me of just how much determination and focus he had; qualities that can be transferred to everyday life as well as inside the Dojo. This is one of the many life lessons karate can teach us as students: with great effort and spirit, much can be achieved.
Our arrival at the Dojo was tinged with excitement; not just with knowing that the grading would take place soon but that we would be working with some very interesting instructors and would no doubt be learning a great deal.
It was also a special occasion as the day also celebrated Kenkyukai's 16th anniversary, and ten years to the day since the opening of the Plymouth Dojo.
Joining us that day were Sensei Chris Thompson 8th Dan, and Sensei Nick Smith 7th Dan; Sensei Smith, a regular visitor to the Plymouth Dojo for courses was welcomed back, and we were privileged to welcome Sensei Thompson, whose reputation was known to us all at the club and we were very eager to meet him. With a good turn out and some familiar faces to greet, we began the course.
Sensei Smith really got us thinking and gave us some excellent knowledge to apply in our lessons. One of the things Sensei Smith knows well is competition kumite, and introduced us to some of the rules and techniques that are prevalent in that area. This is one of the excellent things about training with Sensei; you can really delve into the competition side and see the application of techniques from another perspective. He also took us through application of Kata. In pairs, we broke down the Kata and examined specific elements; for example, in Pinan Sandan we used the movement where the uke takes the wrist from behind you, meaning you pull the wrist back against you (jerking the uke forward) and turn into them and execute a dropping block against their attacking arm. This was just one example of what we did, but we looked in depth at principals of the Kata, and how we use the space between ourselves and the opponent. I really enjoyed this, as the Kata was then taken out of its usual structure and made you identify its main components. When we practiced a move from Pinan Yondan for instance, the opening move had a much greater emphasis, and we were encouraged to practice with the intention of a block, rather than just raising the arm without covering the face.
Sensei Thompson’s karate history is an extraordinary one, having trained with many Japanese instructors including Suzuki and Kobayashi and spent over forty years of training. He introduced himself and told us about his Karate background, explaining that he wished to show us some of the main principals of Wado Ryu. These principals included Sen-no-sen, with simultaneous block and counters against both kicking and punching techniques. We also looked at moving off center to avoid a technique, allowing us to take advantage of an out of position or off balance opponent (with some kuzushi thrown in for good measure). We also looked at using an attack to incidentally block an opponent (Kobo-ittai). Many of the pair-work finished with the uke being disposed of on the mats, which everyone enjoyed and allowed us to continue practicing our break falling. Sensei Thompson made us think on our feet with these techniques, trusting ourselves to measure distance and timing until it was just right. It was good fun to throw each other around, and I could feel my confidence building with break falling, as it isn’t my strong point. But there is always something to expand and learn more on, and I certainly took a lot away from my time learning under Sensei Thompson.
When Sensei Chuck left to get ready for his grading, I know I for one was excited! The Dojo was swiftly transformed to accommodate space for Tantodori and Idori defense and we all settled down to watch the exam take place.
It felt slightly surreal watching a Dan grade exam, particularly one to 7th Dan, especially as no one in the UK had ever attempted taking this grade before.
It was a great drawing together of months of extra training and hard work from Sensei, and it made me feel very proud of his determination and drive to succeed. It was also very interesting to watch Tantodori and Idori defense at such a high level, as the attacks from Richard House Sensei were dynamic and flowing. I was asked to film the grading for Sensei Chuck, and there were moments when I was so drawn in to what was going on I nearly let the action get too wide of the camera! I expect it must have been good to watch back (though my camera work should be excused!)
Waiting for the exam to be finalized was quite nerve-wracking, as we were all anxious to hear the result. As Sensei Chuck was called forward to receive his certificate, there was a tremendous buzz of positive energy as both Sensei Thompson and Sensei Smith congratulated him for his efforts and announced he had reached 7th Dan. It must be mentioned that Chris Thompson is a member of the English Karate Federation technical board, and that this grade is homologated by the EKF, and in turn ratified by the European and World governing bodies, what a fantastic achievement!
Appreciation and thanks are duly given to Kenkyukai members Joshua Brown 1st Dan and Tom Paul 3rd Kyu as well as BWK’s Richard House 3rd Dan for helping Sensei Chuck with his paired Kata.
I felt really buzzed by the end of the course; not only did we enjoy making new friends and socializing with old ones, we also managed to raise a fantastic £350.00 for St Luke’s Hospice, Plymouth. It always feels so good to give something back to the local community, and raise money for causes that need our support. It feels like so much more than a learning experience at every course, and I often look back on the courses I have attended with fondness. I know this one will stick in my memory for a unique reason! J
With the end of the year creeping steadily nearer, the Kenkyukai club has had much to look back on with pride for 2012. With all the very best to you all for 2013, we look forward to seeing you at our Plymouth Dojo again. I would like to thank our instructors for taking the time to come and teach us, and to Sensei Chuck for his good example and spirit that has driven us all onward in our Wado journey. Long may it continue!
Charlotte Rockey
5th Kyu
Wadoryu Karatedo Kenkyukai Hombu Dojo, Plymouth.
The grading represented two and a half years of study, dedication and training to make the milestone, and it was a very emotional moment for us all. Filming the grading on a camcorder, I was lucky enough to see Sensei perform Kata and Yakosoku gumite, Kihon gumite, as well as Idori (kneeling defense) and Tantodori (knife defense). Watching him make his way through these techniques reminded me of just how much determination and focus he had; qualities that can be transferred to everyday life as well as inside the Dojo. This is one of the many life lessons karate can teach us as students: with great effort and spirit, much can be achieved.
Our arrival at the Dojo was tinged with excitement; not just with knowing that the grading would take place soon but that we would be working with some very interesting instructors and would no doubt be learning a great deal.
It was also a special occasion as the day also celebrated Kenkyukai's 16th anniversary, and ten years to the day since the opening of the Plymouth Dojo.
Joining us that day were Sensei Chris Thompson 8th Dan, and Sensei Nick Smith 7th Dan; Sensei Smith, a regular visitor to the Plymouth Dojo for courses was welcomed back, and we were privileged to welcome Sensei Thompson, whose reputation was known to us all at the club and we were very eager to meet him. With a good turn out and some familiar faces to greet, we began the course.
Sensei Smith really got us thinking and gave us some excellent knowledge to apply in our lessons. One of the things Sensei Smith knows well is competition kumite, and introduced us to some of the rules and techniques that are prevalent in that area. This is one of the excellent things about training with Sensei; you can really delve into the competition side and see the application of techniques from another perspective. He also took us through application of Kata. In pairs, we broke down the Kata and examined specific elements; for example, in Pinan Sandan we used the movement where the uke takes the wrist from behind you, meaning you pull the wrist back against you (jerking the uke forward) and turn into them and execute a dropping block against their attacking arm. This was just one example of what we did, but we looked in depth at principals of the Kata, and how we use the space between ourselves and the opponent. I really enjoyed this, as the Kata was then taken out of its usual structure and made you identify its main components. When we practiced a move from Pinan Yondan for instance, the opening move had a much greater emphasis, and we were encouraged to practice with the intention of a block, rather than just raising the arm without covering the face.
Sensei Thompson’s karate history is an extraordinary one, having trained with many Japanese instructors including Suzuki and Kobayashi and spent over forty years of training. He introduced himself and told us about his Karate background, explaining that he wished to show us some of the main principals of Wado Ryu. These principals included Sen-no-sen, with simultaneous block and counters against both kicking and punching techniques. We also looked at moving off center to avoid a technique, allowing us to take advantage of an out of position or off balance opponent (with some kuzushi thrown in for good measure). We also looked at using an attack to incidentally block an opponent (Kobo-ittai). Many of the pair-work finished with the uke being disposed of on the mats, which everyone enjoyed and allowed us to continue practicing our break falling. Sensei Thompson made us think on our feet with these techniques, trusting ourselves to measure distance and timing until it was just right. It was good fun to throw each other around, and I could feel my confidence building with break falling, as it isn’t my strong point. But there is always something to expand and learn more on, and I certainly took a lot away from my time learning under Sensei Thompson.
When Sensei Chuck left to get ready for his grading, I know I for one was excited! The Dojo was swiftly transformed to accommodate space for Tantodori and Idori defense and we all settled down to watch the exam take place.
It felt slightly surreal watching a Dan grade exam, particularly one to 7th Dan, especially as no one in the UK had ever attempted taking this grade before.
It was a great drawing together of months of extra training and hard work from Sensei, and it made me feel very proud of his determination and drive to succeed. It was also very interesting to watch Tantodori and Idori defense at such a high level, as the attacks from Richard House Sensei were dynamic and flowing. I was asked to film the grading for Sensei Chuck, and there were moments when I was so drawn in to what was going on I nearly let the action get too wide of the camera! I expect it must have been good to watch back (though my camera work should be excused!)
Waiting for the exam to be finalized was quite nerve-wracking, as we were all anxious to hear the result. As Sensei Chuck was called forward to receive his certificate, there was a tremendous buzz of positive energy as both Sensei Thompson and Sensei Smith congratulated him for his efforts and announced he had reached 7th Dan. It must be mentioned that Chris Thompson is a member of the English Karate Federation technical board, and that this grade is homologated by the EKF, and in turn ratified by the European and World governing bodies, what a fantastic achievement!
Appreciation and thanks are duly given to Kenkyukai members Joshua Brown 1st Dan and Tom Paul 3rd Kyu as well as BWK’s Richard House 3rd Dan for helping Sensei Chuck with his paired Kata.
I felt really buzzed by the end of the course; not only did we enjoy making new friends and socializing with old ones, we also managed to raise a fantastic £350.00 for St Luke’s Hospice, Plymouth. It always feels so good to give something back to the local community, and raise money for causes that need our support. It feels like so much more than a learning experience at every course, and I often look back on the courses I have attended with fondness. I know this one will stick in my memory for a unique reason! J
With the end of the year creeping steadily nearer, the Kenkyukai club has had much to look back on with pride for 2012. With all the very best to you all for 2013, we look forward to seeing you at our Plymouth Dojo again. I would like to thank our instructors for taking the time to come and teach us, and to Sensei Chuck for his good example and spirit that has driven us all onward in our Wado journey. Long may it continue!
Charlotte Rockey
5th Kyu
Wadoryu Karatedo Kenkyukai Hombu Dojo, Plymouth.