Disclaimer
Up to date at time of printing. The following information may be subject to
change without prior notice, and whilst every attempt is made to keep the Date
Section up to date, events may change at any time.
The collator of this information has no responsibility for the accuracy of this
information that has been given and all inquiries must be directed towards the
relevant Event Organiser shown.
Please confirm with the relevant event organiser before travelling.
23/08/09
Sensei Wataru Shibata 7th Dan (aka Bob Nash 7th Dan) Open Wado Karate Course.
Hosted by the British Wadokai Karate-do Federation (BWK). Date: 23rd August
2009. Venue: Tanbridge House School Gymnasium, Farthing Hill, Guildford Road,
Horsham, West Sussex. RH12 1SR. Time: Part 1 (all grades); 10am-1pm. Part 2 (3rd
Kyu & over); 1.30-4.30pm. Cost: `Pre-book Price'; Part 1, £20 (£25 on day), Part
1 & 2 £35 (£40 on day).
Bob Nash 7th Dan was born in Yokohama Japan of mixed parentage, his mother
being Japanese and his father American. He spent the first 18 years of his life
in Tokyo as Wataru Shibata. Nash Sensei started Wado at the age of six. He has
trained under the watchful eye of Hideho Takagi (8th Dan) for many years. Takagi
sensei is one of the leading karate technicians in Japan and is currently
serving as the Chairman of the JKF Wadokai Technical committee. Nash Sensei is
the Chief Instructor for Wado Guseikai USA, an organization tied to Dr Takagi,
and serves on the United States National Karate-do Federation Technical
committee. He holds the license of 2nd Kyu instructor. Bob Nash frequently gives
seminars in the US, Europe and the Middle East. He currently resides near
Seattle Washington, USA.
Seminars
The seminars are presented in a relaxed atmosphere. His aim is to transmit as
much information as possible. For this reason there isn't an emphasis on
physical exertion but he always guarantees that `your brains will be hurting'
after the seminar.
Note taking is encouraged because it is not possible to remember all the
material that is covered during the seminar. Techniques are explained in a way
that is relevant to practitioners of varying levels of expertise. Novices as
well as experienced black belts will find his seminars enlightening, informative
and challenging. JKF-Wadokai, founded by Hironori Ohtsuka 1934, is the largest
Wado organisation in the world.
For further details please contact: Paul Elliott 6th Dan. Tel: 01403-218327.
Email: semka@... Gary E Swift 7th Dan. Tel: 01752-493210. Email:
garyswift@...
This is an EKF Member/Sanctioned Event.
TO `GUARANTEE' A SPACE; THIS COURSE MUST BE BOOKED IN ADVANCE DUE TO LIMITED
SPACES.
To download an Application Form please visit: www.wadokai.co.uk
Confirmed applications received: Roger de Fries 4th Dan (Part 1 & 2), Radoslaw
Czop (Part 1), William Kern (Part1), Tony Smith (Part 1), Tom Nations (Part 1),
Joe Nations (Part 1), John Nations (Part 1), Martin Joy (Part 1), Dominik
Hildebrandt (Part 1 & 2/POD), Ilka Reimer (Part 1 & 2/POD), Martin Bockish (Part
1 & 2/POD), Andreas Heinrich (Part 1 & 2/POD), Paul Elliott (Part 1 & 2), Alex
McGregor (Part 1 & 2), Mandy Hounsell (Part 1 & 2), Jamie Davey (Part 1 & 2),
Steve Gray (Part 1 & 2), Paul Di Pietro (Part 1 & 2), Jamie Jewell (Part 1 &
2/POD), Alex Wickens (Part 1 & 2/POD), Ray Field (Part 1 & 2), Robin Olsson
(Part 1 & 2/POD), Henrik Hansson (Part 1 & 2/POD).
www.englishkaratefederation.com/calendar/courses.php

23/08/09
English Karate Federation KUMITE/KATA OFFICIALS COURSE/EXAMINATIONS.
Cancelled. Dear All, Please note that Mr Pottage has cancelled the course which
was booked for the 23rd August this was the referee/judge kata/kumite course. As
soon as we have more information regarding a new course we will inform our
members ASAP. Please cascade to your members. Regards, English Karate
Federation.
30/08/09
Last Date for Applications for British Wadokai Yudan Shinsa (Dan Gradings) on
26th September 2009. For details and Yudan application form please contact the
British Wadokai Administrations Officer Liz Legg. Tel: 01483 527973. Email:
admin@...
Forum; http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/BritishWadokai/

05/09/09
British Wadokai Yudan Shinsa Course. This course is dedicated to those who
wish to have a better understanding, and train through, 1st, 2nd and 3rd Dan
Grade Syllabus of the British Wadokai Black-belt Practical Examination. Also,
implications of the Written Examination will be advised and explained.
Instructor: Gary E Swift (7th Dan) Kyoshi. Time 10am-2pm. Price; £15 (BWK
Full/Honorary Licensed Members only). Venue: TBA. Open to British Wadokai
Licence Holders of 4th Kyu & above only. Tel: 01752-493210. Email:
garyswift@... Website: www.wadokai.co.uk Forum;
http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/BritishWadokai/
THIS EVENT IS FOR BRITISH WADOKAI LICENSED MEMBERS AND MUST BE BOOKED IN ADVANCE
DUE TO LIMITED SPACES.
To download an Application Form please visit: www.wadokai.co.uk

06/09/09
Sunday 6th S.E.M.K.A Black Belt and 1st Kyu Standardization Course. The course
is open to all S.E.M.K.A/BWK. Of 1st Kyu and above. All students of these grades
from S.E.M.K.A. must attend these courses. At Tanbridge School Guildford Road,
Horsham West Sussex.RH12 1SR.10.00am to 1.00pm price £12.00 Instructor Paul
Elliott 6th Dan Renshi For further details, please contact: Paul Elliott 6th Dan
01403218327 semka@...

13/09/09
Sunday 13th S.E.M.K.A.Pre Grading Kata Course. . Open to all Students covering
all the Katas. Ideal warm up for anyone taking grading this month and Black Belt
grading in the coming months. At Tanbridge School Guildford Road, Horsham
10.00am to 1.00pm price £12.00 Instructor Paul Elliott 6th Dan Renshi For
further details, please contact: Paul Elliott 6th Dan 01403218327
semka@...

13/09/09
EKF Squad Training. First Selections for the WKF Junior European Championship
in Istanbul 2010. Details: http://www.englishkaratefederation.com/

14/09/09
Hazlegrove House School Wado Course. Venue: Hazlegrove Karate-do. Hazlegrove
Preparatory School, Hazlegrove House, Sparkford, Somerset. BA22 7JA. Time;
4.15-5.45pm. Instructor; Gary E Swift (7th Dan) Kyoshi. Open to Hazlegrove
Karate-do members only. Contact Mr Peter Fawbert; pf@...

19/09/09
British Wadokai Hikki Shiken. British Wadokai Written Examination for all
Yudan Applicants who are intending to participate in the British Wadokai
Southern Region Yudan Shinsa on 26/09/09.
Venue: 70 Northbourne, Farncombe, Surrey. GU7 3SG. Time: Written Examination:
10:00-11:30 (prompt). (Applicants must have already completed the written
examination prior to attending the practical exam on 26/09/09). For details and
Yudan application form please contact the British Wadokai General Secretary, Liz
Legg. Tel: 01483 527973. Email: admin@... Applications to be returned
to Liz by 30th August 2009. Please contact Liz Legg for Written Examination
details.
Forum; http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/BritishWadokai/
THIS EVENT IS FOR BRITISH WADOKAI LICENSED MEMBERS ONLY AND MUST BE BOOKED IN
ADVANCE DUE TO LIMITED SPACES.
To download an Application Form please visit: www.wadokai.co.uk

20/09/09 UK Open Karate Championships 2009 September 20th 2009. For further
details you can also visit www.pckarate.co.uk or www.pckarate.net for additional
information and competition entry forms. Regards, Paul Campbell 6th Dan BA
(Hons). UK OPEN KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS. CRYSTAL LEISURE CENTRE, BELL STREET,
STOURBRIDGE. DY8 1AE. ENGLAND.
20/09/09
Sunday 20th S.E.M.K.A. Pre Grading Blocks Course. Open to all Students
covering Sanbon Gumite, Ohyo Gumite, Kihon Gumite SEMKA Blocks, Kumite Gata.
Ideal warm up for anyone taking grading this month and Black Belt grading in the
coming months. At Tanbridge School Guildford Road, Horsham West Sussex.RH12
1SR.10.00am to 1.00pm price £12.00 Instructor Paul Elliott 6th Dan Renshi For
further details, please contact: Paul Elliott 6th Dan01403218327
semka@...

26/09/09
British Wadokai Standardisation Course Part 3. Includes all British Wadokai
Tai-sabaki of Idori-no-kata kneeling defences), Tantodori-no-kata (knife
defences), and Mutodori-no-kata (sword defences). (Please bring Bokken, or 3'
length of broom handle, for Muto-dori training). Instructor: Gary E Swift (7th
Dan) Kyoshi. Venue: Shin Ichi Do Club, Hut 15, Tilgate Recreation Centre,
Crawley, Sussex. RH11 9LB. Time: 10am-2pm. Price; £15. Due to location, please
also bring packed-lunch. For further details, please contact the Event
Organiser: Gary E Swift (7th Dan) Kyoshi. Tel 01752-493210. Email:
garyswift@... British Wadokai: www.wadokai.co.uk
Forum; http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/BritishWadokai/
APPLICATION ONLY: www.wadokai.co.uk/documentation/index.php
This is an EKF Member/Sanctioned Event.
THIS EVENT IS FOR BRITISH WADOKAI LICENSED MEMBERS ONLY AND MUST BE BOOKED IN
ADVANCE DUE TO LIMITED SPACES.
To download an Application Form please visit: www.wadokai.co.uk

27/09/09
Clacton Sports Centre, Vista Road Clacton on sea Essex CO15 6DB. CLOSING DATE
Monday 21st SEPTEMBER 2009 CONTACT JOE: 01376502612 -07886097615 EMAIL:
toyakwaikarate@... web : toyakwaikarate.co.uk OR WEB: YOURBKCC.CO.UK
This is an EKF Member/Sanctioned Event.
27/09/09
unday 27th S.E.M.K.A. Kyu Grading at Horsham Karate Club Tanbridge School Open
to all senior grades and juniors grades taking green belt and above. 9.30am to
1.00pm. See you instructor to check if you are able to grade.
02, 03, 04/10/09 WadoExl – EVENT CANCELLED.
03/10/09
British Wadokai Kata Squad Training. Open to all British Wadokai Members.
Instructor: Gary E Swift (7th Dan) Kyoshi Venue: TBA. Time: 10am-2pm. Price;
£15. Due to location, please also bring packed-lunch. For further details,
please contact the Event Organiser: Gary E Swift (7th Dan) Kyoshi. Tel
01752-493210. Email: garyswift@... British Wadokai: www.wadokai.co.uk
APPLICATION ONLY: http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/BritishWadokai/files/
This is an EKF Member/Sanctioned Event.
THIS EVENT IS FOR BRITISH WADOKAI LICENSED MEMBERS ONLY AND MUST BE BOOKED IN
ADVANCE DUE TO LIMITED SPACES.
To download an Application Form please visit: www.wadokai.co.uk

04/10/09
Sunday 4th Black Belt and 1st Kyu Standardization Course. The course is open
to all S.E.M.K.A/BWK. Of 1st Kyu and above. All students of these grades from
S.E.M.K.A. must attend these courses. At Tanbridge School Guildford Road,
Horsham 10.00am to 1.00pm price £12.00 Instructor Paul Elliott 6th Dan Renshi
For further details, please contact: Paul Elliott 6th Dan 01403218327
semka@...

10 & 11/10/09
EKF International Open Championships London – details to follow. Website:
www.englishkaratefederation.com/

18/10/09
Sunday 18th Tonfa Open Weapons Course Level 2. This is the second course
teaching the student how to use the tonfa. This will cover Introduction of the
Weapon and the syllabus which includes Gripping, Stances, Blocks and StikesTime:
10.00am-1.00pm Cost: £12.00 Venue: Tanbridge House School Gym, Farthing Hill,
Guildford Road, Horsham, West Sussex.RH12 1SR.. You must bring a tonfa or have
order one, wood for Seniors rubber for Juniors. Instructor: Paul Elliott 6th Dan
Renshi You must book for this course . To book/more details please contact: Paul
Elliott 6th Dan Tel: 01403 218327 Mob: 07778 058482 Email: semka@...

25/10/09
Goresbrook Leisure Centre, Ripple Road Dagenham Essex RM9 6XW. CLOSING DATE
Monday 18TH OCTOBER 2009 CONTACT JOE: 01376502612 -07886097615 EMAIL:
toyakwaikarate@... web : toyakwaikarate.co.uk OR WEB: YOURBKCC.CO.UK
This is an EKF Member/Sanctioned Event.
25/10/09
Sunday 25th S.E.M.K.A. Black Belt Written Exam Course. Open to all SEMKA/BWK
members, all grades.Venue: Tanbridge School Guildford Road, Horsham. (NB: Course
will be held in the meeting room, which is in one of the mobile classrooms
between the gym and the main hall.)
Time: 9.30am to 1.30pm Price: £20.00 Instructor: Paul Elliott 6th Dan Renshi
This course is designed to help all students with their 1st, 2nd & 3rd Dan
examination, please bring pen & paper. You must book for this course please
contact: Paul Elliott 6th Dan Tel: 01403 218327 Mob: 07778 058482 Email:
semka@....
31/10/09
EKF Squad Training and Second Selections for the WKF Junior European
Championships in Istanbul 2010. Training will be in Dudley. Details:
http://www.englishkaratefederation.com/
This is an EKF Member/Sanctioned Event.
01/11/09
Sunday 1th Black Belt and 1st Kyu Standardization Course. The course is open
to all S.E.M.K.A/BWK. Of 1st Kyu and above. All students of these grades from
S.E.M.K.A. must attend these courses. At Tanbridge School Guildford Road,
Horsham10.00am to 1.00pm price £12.00 Instructor Paul Elliott 6th Dan Renshi For
further details, please contact: Paul Elliott 6th Dan 01403218327
semka@...

07/11/09
British Wadokai Kata Squad Training. Open to all British Wadokai Members.
Instructor: Gary E Swift (7th Dan) Kyoshi. Venue: Shin Ichi Do Club, Hut 15,
Tilgate Recreation Centre, Crawley, Sussex. RH11 9LB. Time: 10am-2pm. Price;
£15. Due to location, please also bring packed-lunch. For further details,
please contact the Event Organiser: Gary E Swift (7th Dan) Kyoshi. Tel
01752-493210. Email: garyswift@... British Wadokai: www.wadokai.co.uk
THIS EVENT IS FOR BRITISH WADOKAI LICENSED MEMBERS ONLY AND MUST BE BOOKED IN
ADVANCE DUE TO LIMITED SPACES.
To download an Application Form please visit: www.wadokai.co.uk

12 to 15/11/09
6th World Junior & Cadet Championships – Rabat, Morocco. Details:
www.englishkaratefederation.com

14/11/09
Last date for entry into the Traditional British Wadokai Kata & Gyo
Championships to be held on the 21/11/09.
Forum; http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/BritishWadokai/
This is an EKF Member/Sanctioned Event.
15/11/09
Sunday 15th S.E.M.K.A. Pre Competition Kata & Gyo Course. . Open to all
Students covering all the Katas. Ideal warm up for anyone taking BWK compitition
this month and grading in the coming months. At Tanbridge School Guildford Road,
Horsham 10.00am to 1.00pm price £12.00 Instructor Paul Elliott 6th Dan Renshi
For further details, please contact: Paul Elliott 6th Dan 01403218327
semka@...

21/11/09
Traditional British Wadokai Open Wado Kata & Gyo Championships. Open to all
EKF Membership. APPLICATIONS BEFORE 14th November 2009.
Venue: Tanbridge School, Guildford Road, Horsham, West Sussex. Book-in: With
Licence (for EKF Chit Number inspection), 9.30am. (No more bookings after
10.15am). Eliminations: 10.30am. Categories for all ages and levels. Events:
Individual Kata, Team Kata, Pairs Gyo. The official Kata List: Pinan Shodan,
Nidan, Sandan, Yodan, Godan. Ku-Shanku, Nai-Hanchi, Seishan, Chinto, Bassai,
Wanshu, Ni-Sei-Shi, Rohai, Ji-tte, Ji-han, Ji-in. Gyo requirements – last
between 60-70 seconds and possess no props/aids, etc. Due to location, it may be
advised to bring a packed-lunch/refreshments etc. Correct Dress Code:
Competitors must wear clean white Gi. Judges must wear blazer, white shirt/tie,
black trousers and soft footwear (no shoes), etc. For an Information Pack &
Application Form, please contact Paul Elliott Renshi. 54, Billingshurst Road,
Broadbridge Heath, Horsham, West Sussex. RH12 3LW. Email: semka@...
Forum; http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/BritishWadokai/
Open to all BWK Affiliations & EKF Licensed Members only.
This is an EKF Member/Sanctioned Event.
22/11/09
EKF Squad Training & Final Selections for the WKF Junior European
Championships in Istanbul 2010. Details: http://www.englishkaratefederation.com/
This is an EKF Member/Sanctioned Event.
29/11/09
unday 29h S.E.M.K.A. General Course. Open to all Students covering Sanbon
Gumite, Ohyo Gumite, Kihon Gumite SEMKA Blocks, Kumite Gata., Kata , Basics and
combinations Ideal warm up for anyone taking grading this month and Black Belt
grading in the coming months. At price £12.00 Instructor Paul Elliott 6th Dan
Renshi For further details, please contact: Paul Elliott 6th Dan01403218327
semka@...

05/12/09
Saturaday 5th S.E.M.K.A. Pre Grading Black Belt Training Session at Shin Ichi
Do Club, Hut 15, Tilgate Recreation Centre, Crawley 10.00am - 1.00pm. Price
£12.00
06/12/09
Sunday 6th S.EM.K.A Black Belt Grading at Horsham Karate Club Tanbridge School
Open to all senior grades and juniors grades taking 1st Dan & 2nd Dan 9.30am
onwards.. See you instructor to check if you are able to grade.
06/12/09
EKF Squad Training Session. Details: http://www.englishkaratefederation.com/
This is an EKF Member/Sanctioned Event.
12/12/09
Saturday 12thS.E.M.K.A. Pre Grading Training Session at Shin Ichi Do Club, Hut
15, Tilgate Recreation Centre, Crawley 10.00am - 1.00pm. Price £10.00
13/12/09
Sunday 13th S.E.M.K.A. Kyu Grading at Horsham Karate Club Tanbridge School
Open to all senior grades and juniors grades taking green belt and above. 9.30am
to 12.30pm. See you instructor to check if you are able to grade.
19/12/09
Friday 19th SEMKA end of year presentation Party Tanbridge School Guildford
Road, Horsham West Sussex.RH12 1SR.6.00pm to 9.00pm
2010
01/01/10
Club/Group Affiliation to British Wadokai for 2010. If you are already a
member of British Wadokai, and you would like to benefit from re-affiliation,
please contact the BWK President by email and confirm your intentions to remain
in membership. For new affiliations, please visit: www.wadokai.co.uk for an
Affiliation Application Form. Email: garyswift@...
Forum; http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/BritishWadokai/
This is an EKF Member.
03/01/10
EKF Closed Training Session for WKF Junior European Championships in Istanbul
2010. Details: http://www.englishkaratefederation.com/
This is an EKF Member/Sanctioned Event.
29/01/10 Today, on the 29th of January 1982, Ohtsuka-Hironori Meijin, the
founder of Wado-ryu Karate-do, passed away at the age 89; he had practised
martial-arts for 85 years.
06/03/10
British Wadokai Yudan Shinsa Course. This course is dedicated those who wish
to have a better understanding, and train through, 1st, 2nd and 3rd Dan Grade
Syllabus of the British Wadokai Black-belt Practical Examination. Also,
implications of the Written Examination will be advised and explained.
Instructor: Gary E Swift (7th Dan) Kyoshi. Time 10am-2pm. Price; £15 (BWK
Licensed Members). Venue: TBA. Open to British Wadokai Licence Holders of 4th
Kyu & above only. Tel: 01752-493210. Email: garyswift@... Forum;
http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/BritishWadokai/
THIS EVENT IS FOR BRITISH WADOKAI LICENSED MEMBERS ONLY AND MUST BE BOOKED IN
ADVANCE DUE TO LIMITED SPACES.
To download an Application Form please visit: www.wadokai.co.uk

04/04/10 Easter Sunday.
27/04/10 The Birthday of Tatsuo Suzuki (8th Dan) Hanshi on the 27th April 1928.
Principle Instructor of the Wado International Karate-Do Federation (Wado
Kokusai Karate-Do Renmei). Suzuki-Tatsuo was born in Yokohama, Japan on the 27th
April 1928. At 10 years old the family moved to Ushigome, Tokyo. At 13 they
moved to Hamamatsu, his father's original home town. His first style of Karate
was Shito-ryu, at his high school. He started training at the Yokohama YMCA
Wado-ryu Karate Club at the age of 17 under a student of Hironori-Ohtsuka, known
as Kimura. Kimura was reputed to be the best student of Ohtsuka-Hironori at that
time. Suzuki-Tatsuo trained regularly with Ohtsuka-Hironori, as he visited the
YMCA regularly.
Suzuki-Tatsuo was awarded 5th Dan in 1951 for outstanding courage and ability.
In 1965 he was awarded 7th Dan, the highest grade ever awarded, by the Zen
Nippon Karate Renmei (all Japan Karate Federation). In 1975 he was awarded 8th
Dan by the All-Japan Karate-do Organisations (Wadokai) and the title of
'Hanshi', which was awarded to him by a member of the Emperor Higashikuni
family.
In 1963, with the assistance of Arakawa-Toru and Takashima-Hajime, Suzuki-Tatsuo
introduced Wado-ryu Karate to the UK, Europe and the USA. In 1965 he returned to
England where he set up his European Headquarters. Amongst his titles he holds;
2nd Dan in Tenshin-Koryu Bo-jutsu and 1st Dan in Judo. He has also studied Zen
doctrine with the high priests, Genpo-Yamamoto and Soyen-Nakagawa.
01/06/10
The Birthday of Ohtsuka Hironori (10th Dan) Meijin on the 1st June in 1892.
The Founder & History of Wado-ryu Karate-do. Hironori-Ohtsuka was born in
Shimodate City, Ibiragi, Japan on the 1st June 1892.
He was the first son of Tokujiro-Ohtsuka, who was a doctor of medicine. 1892
was also the year that the Dai-Nippon-Butoku-Kai was established.
He started training under Chojiro-Ebashi, an uncle of his mother, in April 1897
at the age of four, a style of training he would continue with, even at Waseda
University in Tokyo.
In 1905 Ohtsuka-Hironori entered the Shimozuma middle school, where he started
Shindo-Yoshin-ryu Ju-jutsu under Tatsusaburo-Nakayama.
In 1910 Ohtsuka-Hironori entered Waseda University to learn commerce.
In 1917 he started work at the Kawasaki bank; at this stage he was learning
numerous styles of Ju-jutsu. Ohtsuka-Hironori met, and became good friends, with
the founder of Aikido, Morihei-Ueshiba.
In May 1919 he became master of 'bone-setting technique'.
On the 1st of July 1921 he received his Shindo-Yoshin-ryu Ju-jutsu licence from
Tatsusaburo-Nakayama, and so became the Highest Authority.
He started his Karate training with the famous Gichin-Funikoshi in July 1922, a
style known as To-de or Okinawan Karate-jutsu. Ohtsuka-Hironori met Funikoshi
Sensei during a martial-arts demonstration at the Sports Festival organised by
the Japanese Educational Department.
Funikoshi Sensei agreed to teach Ohtsuka-Hironori all he knew about Okinawan
Karate-jutsu, the lessons started that same day.
Within one year Ohtsuka-Hironori had studied all the Kata within the system.
Even after this time Ohtsuka-Hironori could see the 'shortfall' in the Kata-only
system. It was explained to him that all of the concepts of 'Budo' was within
Kata, and that was the only aspect to train.
In 1924 Ohtsuka-Hironori introduced Yakusoku-gumite to the system, this concept
of 'partner-work' revolutionised Karate-jutsu. He also developed Idori-no-kata,
Tachiai-no-kata, and Shirahatori-no-kata.
In 1928 he was 'Shindo-Yoshin-ryu Shihan', the Chief Instructor of his
Shindo-Yoshin-ryu; he also set up a 'bone-setting' practice at this time.
In 1929 he registered with the 'Nippon-Kobudo-Shinko-Kai', the Japanese
Martial-arts Federation.
In 1934 Ohtsuka-Hironori was recognised as an independent style, and started
teaching full-time. Due to his dedication to Karate he had to close his
'bone-setting' business.
In 1938 Ohtsuka-Hironori registered his new style as Shin-Shu-Wado-ryu.
In 1939 all Karate styles were asked to register their systems with the
'Dai-Nippon-Butoku-Kai', Ohtsuka-Hironori named his style Wado-ryu. Other styles
that registered were Goju-ryu, Shito-ryu, and Shoto-ryu (Shotokan-ryu).
In 1940 on May the 5th the 'All Styles Karate Demonstrations' took place at
Butoku-Den in Kyoto. All the major styles took part, these included Goju-ryu,
Keishi-Kempo, Nippon-Kempo-ryu, Shito-ryu, Shoto-ryu, and Wado-ryu.
In 1944 Ohtsuka-Hironori was promoted to Chief Instructor of all Karate under
the Dai-Nippon-Butoku-kai.
In 1945 the Americans, at the end of the Second World War, disbanded all
martial-arts.
In 1951 all martial-arts were reinstated, after the signing of the American
peace treaty with Japan.
In 1955 the first Karate tournament took place, organised by Ohtsuka-Hironori,
it was called the 'First All Japan Wado-ryu Karate Championships'.
In 1964 'The All Japan Karate-do Federation' (JKF) was established. This same
year Suzuki-Tatsuo, Arakawa-Toru, and Takashima-Hajime introduced Wado-ryu to
Great Britain, Europe, and the United States of America.
In 1966 Ohtsuka-Hironori was awarded 'Kun-Goto-Soukuo-Kyo-Kuju-jutsu-Sho'
(similar to the OBE in Great Britain) from Emperor Hirohito for his dedication
to Karate.
In 1972 he was awarded the title of Meijin from Higashino-Kunino-Miya (a member
of the Japanese royal family) President of the International Martial-arts
Federation the 'Kokusai-Budo-Renmei'. Ohtsuka-Hironori was the first man in
history to receive this highest honour in martial-arts. For his services to
Japanese martial-arts, and to honour his new position as the highest Karate
Authority in Japan, he was awarded the Shiju-Hoosho medal from the Japanese
Government, the only man in the history of Karate to be so honoured.
On the 29th of January 1982 Ohtsuka-Hironori Meijin died at the age 89, he had
practised martial-arts for 85 years.
"Buno-michi-wa Tada-aragoto-na-to-omohiso Wa-no-michi-kiwa-me Wa-o-motomu-michi:
The way to practise martial-arts is not for fighting. Always look for your own
inner peace and harmony, search for it." Ohtsuka-Hironori.

A style of Karate developed by Ohtsuka-Hironori 10th Dan Meijin (AD1892-1982).
Wado combines traditional Japanese Budo, Okinawan Shuri-te (To-de) and
Shinto-Yoshin-ryu Jujutsu, and was recognised as an independent style in 1934.
Wado-ryu is reputed to be one of the fastest and most efficient forms of Karate
in the world; emphasis includes the fundamental principles and concepts of
'Nagasu, Inasu, Noru, and Irimi'. The founder was responsible for introducing
partner-work routines to Karate. Wado-ryu was also the first style of Karate to
practise Jiyu-gumite (free-fighting) as part of the training.
There are estimated to be over 350,000 Wado-ryu members practising in Europe
alone.
Below is an adaptation from an open letter written by Ohtsuka Hironori (10th
Dan) Meijin to all Wado-Ryu students, sent out two-years prior to his death,
explaining the origins of Wado-ryu.
"At the age of five years old, I was in very poor health. It was then that I
began my training in Ju-jutsu at the school of my uncle, Sensei Chojiro-Ehashi,
the official martial arts instructor of the Tsuchiura Clan. Since this time I
have trained continuously until my present age of eighty-eight years. For this,
I can heartily thank the traditional Samurai education, which was both gentle
and strict. I also thank and pray for my dear mother without whom I could never
have succeeded in my deepest aims; I thank her sincerely for always being near.
On my thirtieth birthday, Master Nakayama, the third Grandmaster of Shinto
Yoshin-ryu Ju-jutsu, allowed me to learn the deepest and most secret doctrines
of our school. It was then that I succeeded him as the fourth Grandmaster.
Karate was becoming increasingly popular around this time, and I began to study
its techniques from several eminent Okinawan masters who had begun to teach in
Tokyo. It occurred to me that there were many fine attributes in the Okinawan
systems, and so decided to blend these with the finest elements of Shinto
Yoshin-ryu Ju-jutsu to create a genuine and original Japanese martial-art.
Through this process I developed Kumite, Gyaku-nage, I-dori, Tachi-iai,
Tanken-dori, and Shinken-Shirai-dori.
Every year, for purposes of promoting the Japanese martial-arts, the Butokuden
in Kyoto held a national festival. In 1938, the festival focused on the
originators of each martial-art; however, no originator of Japanese Karate had
been identified. I named the originator of the first true Japanese style of
Karate-Do as Shiro-Yoshitoki-Akiyama (the founder of Shinto Yoshin-ryu Jujitsu)
and named this new style of Karate-Do, 'Wado-Ryu' meaning: 'Japanese-way school'
or also 'Peaceful-way school' since the Kanji lettering for 'Wa' can mean both.
The fundamental meaning and original aims of martial-arts is the promotion of
Peace. To bring peace to society and to guard against its loss so that human
beings can enjoy a happy life. We must strive for peace in a world where it is
increasingly difficult to achieve. We must not simply rely on God's mercy to
achieve it but must strive as individuals, with all our will, to attain it.
Immense spiritual and physical power is required so we will not surrender to the
difficulties and barriers which lie before us on this journey The hard training
in martial-arts aims to foster this dauntless, indefatigable strength which is
why the beauty of martial-arts training is beyond the vicissitudes of mundane
affairs."

13/06/10
British Wadokai Siouthwest Open Kata Championships. Venue: Hazlegrove
Karate-do. Hazlegrove Preparatory School, Hazlegrove House, Sparkford, Somerset.
BA22 7JA. Book-in 9.30am. Eliminations 10am.

For Application Form, categories and information, please visit:
www.wadokai.co.uk or the British Wadokai Forum:
http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/BritishWadokai/

04/09/10
British Wadokai Yudan Shinsa Course. This course is dedicated those who wish
to have a better understanding, and train through, 1st, 2nd and 3rd Dan Grade
Syllabus of the British Wadokai Black-belt Practical Examination. Also,
implications of the Written Examination will be advised and explained.
Instructor: Gary E Swift (7th Dan) Kyoshi. Time 10am-2pm. Price; £15 (BWK
Licensed Members). Venue: TBA. Open to British Wadokai Licence Holders of 4th
Kyu & above only. Tel: 01752-493210. Email: garyswift@... Forum;
http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/BritishWadokai/
THIS EVENT IS FOR BRITISH WADOKAI LICENSED MEMBERS ONLY AND MUST BE BOOKED IN
ADVANCE DUE TO LIMITED SPACES.
To download an Application Form please visit: www.wadokai.co.uk

2011
01/01/11
Club/Group Affiliation to British Wadokai for 2011. If you are already a
member of British Wadokai, and you would like to benefit from re-affiliation,
please contact the BWK President by email and confirm your intentions to remain
in membership. For new affiliations, please visit: www.wadokai.co.uk for an
Affiliation Application Form. Email: garyswift@...
This is an EKF Member.
27/03/11
35 years Birthday Celebration Dinner. Venue: Golden Palace Restaurant, High
Street, Cranleigh, Surrey. Time: 7pm. All British Wadokai 3rd Dan & above
welcome. RSVP before 25/02/11. Details from GE Swift 7th Dan: Home 01752-493210
– Mobile 07719-773898 – Email Garyswift@... For information on FREE
British Wadokai Affiliation Membership; please contact the BWK President Gary E
Swift 7th Dan. Tel: 01752-493210/07719-773898. Email: Garyswift@...
Find us on: www.wadokai.co.uk Transport for BWK Southwest Members available –
Please contact BWK President.
THIS EVENT IS FOR BRITISH WADOKAI LICENSED MEMBERS ONLY AND MUST BE BOOKED IN
ADVANCE DUE TO LIMITED SPACES.
To download an Application Form please visit: www.wadokai.co.uk

2016
01/01/16
Club/Group Affiliation to British Wadokai for 2016. If you are already a
member of British Wadokai, and you would like to benefit from re-affiliation,
please contact the BWK President by email and confirm your intentions to remain
in membership. For new affiliations, please visit: www.wadokai.co.uk for an
Affiliation Application Form. Email: garyswift@...
This is an EKF Member.
27/03/16
40 years Birthday Celebration Dinner. Venue: Golden Palace Restaurant, High
Street, Cranleigh, Surrey. Time: 7pm. All British Wadokai 3rd Dan & above
welcome. RSVP before 25/02/16. Details from GE Swift 7th Dan: Home 01752-493210
– Mobile 07719-773898 – Email garyswift@... For information on FREE
BWK Affiliation Membership; please contact the BWK President Gary E Swift 7th
Dan. Tel: 01752-493210/07719-773898. Email: garyswift@... Find us on:
www.wadokai.co.uk Transport for BWK Southwest Members available – Please contact
the President.
THIS EVENT IS FOR BRITISH WADOKAI LICENSED MEMBERS ONLY AND MUST BE BOOKED IN
ADVANCE DUE TO LIMITED SPACES.
To download an Application Form please visit: www.wadokai.co.uk

2026
01/01/26
Club/Group Affiliation to British Wadokai for 2026. If you are already a
member of British Wadokai, and you would like to benefit from re-affiliation,
please contact the BWK President by email and confirm your intentions to remain
in membership. For new affiliations, please visit: www.wadokai.co.uk for an
Affiliation Application Form. Email: garyswift@...
This is an EKF Member.
29/03/26
50 Years 'Celebration Special' Wado Karate Course. Venue: Hakutsuru Karate,
Snoxhall Centre, Snoxhall, Knowle Lane, Cranleigh, Surrey. Time: 2-5pm.
Instructor: Gary E Swift 7th Dan. Please bring your up-to-date British Wadokai
Karate-do Federation Licence for proof of membership for free training.

Don't forget to bring your 'Course Attendance Record Card' for signing and
stamping. For information on FREE British Wadokai Full Membership, please
contact the BWK President Gary E Swift 7th Dan. Tel: 01752-493210/07719-773898.
Email: garygwift@... Find us on: www.wadokai.co.ukTransport for BWK
Southwest Members available – Please contact British Wadokai President.
This is an EKF Member/Sanctioned Event.
29/03/26
50 years Birthday Celebration Dinner. Venue: Golden Palace Restaurant, High
Street, Cranleigh, Surrey. Time: 7pm. All British Wadokai 3rd Dan & above (and
partners) welcome. RSVP before 29/02/26. Details from GE Swift 7th Dan: Home
01752-493210 – Mobile 07719-773898 - Email garyswift@... For
information on FREE British Wadokai Affiliation Membership, please contact the
British Wadokai President Gary E Swift 7th Dan. Tel: 01752-493210/07719-773898.
Email: garyswift@... Find us on: www.wadokai.co.uk Transport for BWK
Southwest Members available.