This month, Karate BC would like to profile Kitimat Karate Club. Thank you for being a member of Karate BC!
Club Name: Kitimat Karate Club
1St Head Sensei: Murray Johnson
Current Head Sensei: Paul Brais
Year Club was founded: 1974
Style Association: Shito-Ryu Renshikan
Number of Members: 50
The Kitimat Karate Club was formed in 1974 under the direction and instruction of RCMP Officer, Murray Johnson. The style of Karate taught was Shotokan. During 1978 to 1979, Sensei David Akutagawa moved to Kitimat, BC, and as chief instructor, adapted the club to the Chito-Ryu style of Karate.
In 1997, the Kitimat Karate Club officially became associated with Renshikan Karate-Do International Inc. This organization was founded by Sensei David Akutagawa (Shihan) and combines the styles Akutagawa (Chito-Ryu) Karate-Do Kenyukai: a combination of O’Sensei Dr. Tsuyoshi Chitose’s Chito-Ryu and Japan Karate Federation Kata.
At present, the community focussed club is under the guidance of Sensei Paul Brais (Godan) and while still members of Renshikan association, the club is training in the traditional style of Shito-Ryu karate. Sensei Paul Silvestre (Sandan), and Tanya Hickman (Sandan) instruct the youth classes.
When travel permits, the Kitimat Karate Club participates in a number of Karate BC sanctioned tournaments such as the Provincial Championships, BC Winter Games, and various invitational tournaments. Some local karatekas have also competed at the National and International levels.
The aim of the Kitimat Karate Club is to create strong, healthy individuals who can make a positive contribution to society. Also, through the study of Karate-Do, each karateka strives to build and co-ordinate a strong mind, body and spirit.
Training consists of Kihons, Kata, Kumite, self- defense, Bunkai and Kobudo. Efficiency and precision are stressed in all movements, and a calm, aware attitude in any situation is fostered.
Contact the Club:
Head Karate Instructor: Paul Brais
Dojo Contact: Paul Silvestre
Phone Number: 250-639-9322
Email: kitimatkarateclub@gmail.com
