Chief Instructor Profile

Sensei Richard Gregory

Grade History

Sandan            -           2007 (Seitou Ryu)
Nidan               -           2003 (Kenshukai)
Shodan            -           2001 (Kenshukai)
Shodan-Ho      -           2000 (Kenshukai)

Training History

Richard began his journey in karate at the age of 6 at a Wado Ryu club in West Wickham, Kent. He enthusiastically trained at the club for a brief period before moving home prevented him from continuing his training.

Several years later, after a few spells of training in judo and kung fu, Richard started training in Go-Kan-Ryu (GKR) Karate, a hybrid style of Goju Kai and Keishinkan (an offshoot of Shotokan). He initially trained under Jim Gurney, followed shortly by Bijal Wadher and then Rod Martin, who later became his main instructor and mentor. Richard reached the rank of 2nd kyu in GKR before he followed his instructors to a new organisation, Kenshukai. It was here that Richard received further training under the direct tutelage of Rod Martin and eventually went on to achieve 2nd Dan black belt.

In 2005, Richard followed his instructor to set up their own clubs. One in Australia (Ho Shin Do), and one in England (Seitou Ryu). Both follow a common strain of karate, but are taught independently of each other. Richard continued his training under various instructors who have since helped him further understand his roots of the base styles of Seitou Ryu. Some of these instructors include George Andrews and Leo Lipinski from Goju Ryu, and Steve Roberts, Ron Silverthorne and Shihan Kenneth Funakoshi from Shotokan. At the same time, Richard also started training in Iaido under Tom Grogen and later on Steve Boyle. He currently holds the rank of 1st kyu.

In 2007, at the first annual Seitou Ryu Gasshuku Training Camp, Richard was awarded the rank of 3rd Dan.

Achievements & Titles

Richard holds numerous titles in kata and kumite on regional, national and international levels (2001 – 2008) and is a regular competitor on the tournament circuit. He holds a national coaching certification from MASA (Martial Arts Standards Agency) and is a recognised senior instructor and grading examiner by the Shi Kon Martial Arts Association.
In 2008 Richard was awarded as ‘International Instructor of the Year’ at the Hall of Honour and Spirit Awards by Black Belt International & Self Defence Germany.