I started Karate training 1972 in the wave of new recruits because of the popularity of Bruce Lee. This was in SKI Shotokan style at Stanford-le-Hope Essex. Trained for a couple of years and had a break until I found Goju Ryu in 1980 and was taught by sensei Gary Webber at Basildon Essex. This was with the English Goju Ryu Karate Association (EGKA) headed by Sensei James Rousseau affiliated to the International Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate Federation (IOGKF) headed by Sensei Higgaona Morio.
Keith Bishop is a 6th Dan Karate instructor. He began his Goju Ryu Karate training in 1986 at Chelmsford, Essex, under Sensei Gary Webber. The club was later taken over by Sensei Kevin Nason. At this time they were members of the IOGKF, training under Shihan Morio Higaonna, Shihan James Rousseau, Sensei Len Sim and Sensei George Andrews. In 1991 while still with the IOGKF he gained his Shodan.
I began my karate venture in 1997. This was at Trent Road under the instruction of Sensei Keith Bishop and Sensei Mick Fitzsimmons. My karate training has taken me to many places in the UK, Europe and South Africa and given me the opportunity to train under many senior instructors, including Shihan James Rousseau, Sensei Len Sim and Sensei Arnold De Beer.
Having introduced my twin sons to karate at the tender age of 5, I watched them develop and grow in confidence and ability really quickly. Under the careful supervision of Senseis Keith and Kevin, it was a proud moment to watch my children take part in competitions, gradings and represent the Chelmsford clubs at national events.
We practise traditional Okinawan Goju Ryu, which focuses on effective close-quarters fighting. We enjoy tournaments, but believe that the true heart of karate is self defence.
Our instructors include Police Officers who have used their skills on the streets many times.