The beginnings of San no Ya were in a fledgling karate club in Bristol, south west England in 1965 when Reg, Philip and Fred began training. Robert followed suit in 1967.

Regular visits from Suzuki Sensei as well as all of the 'young' Japanese instructors resident in the UK, ensured that the Bristol club (later known as Kyu Do Kan) flourished. Names like Shiomitsu, Sakagami and Fuji, or Maeda, Furukawa, Kobayashi and others all had an influence on the Bristol brand of Wado Ryu karate. We were also fortunate enough to gain knowledge directly from the source, Ohtsuka Sensei, when he came to the UK at that time.

Reg, Fred and Philip...about 1969

After some four or five years all of the brothers had 'graduated' to dan grade level and had represented Wado in both national and international competition. Philip achieving the most success being All Britain Wado Champion and European runner up in 1969.

1969 - the Bristol team at the 1st West of England Championship. (From L-R, Kim Chin, unknown, Reg, Mike Deakin, Philip, Robert, and Brian Gonzalves,)

March 1971 - Kyu Do Kan, Bristol. (From L-R, Brian Gonzalves, George Grimes, Kim Chin, H.Fuji Sensei, Robert, Philip, and Fred)

In the early seventies Robert, Philip and Reg migrated to Australia, leaving Bristol in the care of Fred. Sadly, Freddie passed away suddenly in 1976, leaving behind some fine students as examples of his instruction. They have continued the tradition begun in 1965, keeping a strong Wado presence in the the West of England.

Meanwhile 'down under' the Wado Federation of Australia was formed, spreading the Wado gospel right across this large country.The training continued with the same focus and determination as before in England. Maintaining continuous contact with Suzuki Sensei through frequent teaching tours and return trips to Bristol. The wheel has now turned full circle, with many Australian students travelling overseas to Japan and Europe and representing Australia at international events on a number of occasions.

In 1990, along with over thirty other countries, Australia proudly became a member of Suzuki Sensei's new organisation, the Wado International Karate Federation (WIKF). At this time of affirmation, it was decided that the name given by Suzuki Sensei should be formally adopted for the Australian federation. So San no Ya came of age.

The Principles of the Wado International Karate Do Federation

The way of karate is the cultivation of the spirit and the perfection of technique through karate training. Karate must never be exploited for political purposes. We should adhere to the teachings of Ohtsuka Sensei, the founder of Wado Ryu, and faithfully practice kihon, kata, and kihon gumite. These techniques will become the foundation, which through improvement, we can use to pursue the mysteries of free fighting. As karate is a fighting art, the aim is to overcome your opponent, but the ultimate goal is to achieve an innermost sense of peace.

In attendance at the WIKF inauguration ceremony in Tokyo.
Suzuki Sensei, demonstrating Ryusei 1st WIKF World Championship - Athens 1993