Sonchō Karate Club on the roads
We train with everyone and anyone!
Follow our karate travels here or even better share your training opportunities with us.
We love learning and are always on the lookout for more events with great instructors.
Course with Bob Rhodes Sensei and Kevin Thurlow Sensei
Where: Faversham
When: 25/05/2025
Instructors: Sensei Bob Rhodes, Sensei Kevin Thurlow
Fantastic seminar with Bob Rhodes Sensei and Kevin Thurlow Sensei in Faversham today!
2 excellent kumite and kata sessions,
Natalie and Hazel learned loads and took away some brilliant tips and ideas from both sessions.
Thank you to Canterbury Shotokan Karate Club for having us join the seminar!
Picture courtesy of Steven Beard
Bo Staff Training
Where: Basingstoke
When: 23/05/2025
Instructors: Sensei Mark Lutman
One of those sessions you’ll never forget!
Superb teaching by Mark Lutman Sensei.
Thank you to Ridgeway SKC for organising,
and to Dave Sensei for letting Natalie use the Japanese Oak Bo Staff, what an honour!
A fantastic evening
Welsh Karate League Championships
Where: Wales
When: 12/05/2025
Instructors:
Great to see Natalie Sensei in her referee uniform at the Welsh Karate League!
It’s an honour to work alongside referees from different associations, and see athletes from various clubs perform their best!
HDKI GB National Kata Squad Training
Where: Basingstoke
When: 04/05/2025
Instructors: Julie Nicholson Sensei, John Holdsworth Sensei
A very educational and inspiring kata squad training, thank you to Julie & John Senseis for sharing their knowledge with us.
Great to see Natalie and Marius travel to Basingstoke today, loads of good karate conversations and future goals discussed.
We highly recommend making the most of such opportunities, learning from the squad coaches. Squad sessions give us the tools that we can take away and use in the dojo, not just competitions.
Black & Brown Belt Course
Where: Guildford
When: 05/04/2025
Instructors: Stuart Amos Sensei, Simon Bligh Sensei
Brilliant detailed Shodan focussed session with Stuart Amos Sensei, followed by kumite session with Simon Bligh Sensei.
Everyone took loads away from both sessions and from the Dan grading too. Talking to Elif & Yingtai after the course it was fantastic to hear how much they both learned today,
A fantastic day, big thank you to all working hard behind the scenes to make it happen!
Seminar with Shinji Nagaki Sensei
Where: Liverpool
When: 23/03/2025
Instructors: Shinji Nagaki Sensei
A fantastic day full of karate with Shinji Nagaki Sensei.
Brilliant to see Natalie, Isaac, Hazel, Laurel and Maryse join the line and train hard.
All grades session followed by a very intensive black and brown belt session, there was so much we covered - excellent day.
Thank you to Randori Shotokan Karate Club for organising. Grateful for this opportunity.
HDKI GB Black and Brown Belt Course
Where: Liverpool
When: 22/03/2025
Instructors: Sensei Matt Pain, Sensei Paul Uren
Great to see Maryse train at the B&B course in Liverpool today.
Two very inspiring sessions, loads to take away and work on in the dojo.
Congratulations to all who passed their grading, very well done.
Play Their Way / UNICEF Workshop
Where:
When: 19/03/2025
Instructors:
It’s great to see Natalie attend the workshop with Play Their Way and UNICEF UK, where coaches and local sports organisations dived deep into children’s rights in the context of sport, and explored ways these can be embedded in organisational practices.
Great to have a conversation with Active Gloucestershire how Sonchō Karate Club can actively support local individuals and families. Looking forward to working with them closely.
HDKI GB National Kumite Squad Training
Where: Dudley
When: 16/03/2025
Instructors: Sensei Julie Nicholson and John Holdsworth
Fantastic to see Natalie, Leah, and Maryse train hard at the HDKI - GB National Kumite Squad Training.
So much to take away from the session, we worked on body movement, feints, and tactics on the theme ‘it’s not what you do but how you do it’.
Lovely to see everyone and meet new friends too. Thank you to John and Julie Senseis for a fantastic session.
Training with Neil Jerome Sensei
at Blackwater Valley Shotokan Karate Club
Where: Blackwater Valley
When: 13/03/2025
Instructors: Sensei Neil Jerome
Brilliant night at Blackwater Valley Shotokan Karate with Sensei Neil Jerome.
Natalie managed to fit in an extra training and what an inspiring session this was!
We looked at how the form evolves into functional, dynamic karate. We removed the tension often created during kihon/kata practice and allowed the energy to flow beyond the form.
Thank you to Steve Bailes Sensei for hosting.
HDKI GB South East Squad Training
Where: Basingstoke
When: 26/01/2025
Instructors: Natalie Böttcher Sensei, Amelia Senft Sensei
Great way to kick off 2025 squad training!
South East Squad training held in Basingstoke today, led by our own Natalie Sensei and Amelia Sensei. Two excellent, very well thought out sessions.
Working on explosive starts and body coordination for kata together with explosive kumite attacks and defence drills. Nice to see tubes and agility ladders being used in the sessions for body development.
HDKI GB Christmas Course
Where: Birmingham
When: 15/12/2024
Instructors: Senseis Tom Kompier, Julie Nicholson, John Holdsworth and Scott Langley
2 days of training, 6 brilliant sessions.
Natalie and Maryse joined the group of senior grades on Saturday and thoroughly enjoyed the challenging sessions, taking the basics to another level.
Very educational and thought provoking second day focusing on the importance of correct execution of techniques and ideas that can be applied in regular training. We finished off with Kakuyoku Shodan and applications.
HDKI Ireland Christmas Course with Takenoshita Shinichiro Sensei
Where: Dublin
When: 08/12/2024
Instructors: Takenoshita Shinichiro Sensei
A fantastic Christmas course in Ireland with Takenoshita Sensei!
Maryse and Natalie travelled to train with Takenoshita Sensei, took away loads from all sessions and made many great memories too!
Congratulations to Natalie and Maryse on passing their Sandan grading with Sensei Scott Langley, Sensei Takenoshita Shinichiro and Sensei Ross Stewart.
Fantastic achievement, congratulations from everyone at Sonchō Karate Club
Special Promotion Seminar
Where: Faversham
When: 24/11/2024
Instructors: Bob Rhodes Sensei
It was a real privilege for Natalie and Maryse to have been invited to the special seminar today to see Sensei Bob Rhodes being awarded his 9th Dan.
Congratulations to Sensei Bob Rhodes,
from everyone at Sonchō Karate Club. As a club we are very lucky to have had Sensei Bob visit us and teach in the club on a couple of occasions, some very lucky members even graded under Sensei Bob.
We are very honoured to have been part of this special day!
Autumn Camp 2024
Where: La Roche sur Yon (France)
When: 25-27/10/2024
Instructors: Scott Langley Sensei, Guy Brodeur Sensei
Maryse travelled all the way to France to train at the Autumn Camp 2024 with Scott Langley Sensei and Guy Brodeur Sensei in La Roche sur Yon.
Always a lot to take on and practice in the dojo, thank you!
Thank you so much for organising Emmanuel Etienne and Sylvaine!
Watanabe Sensei - seminar and kumite masterclass
Where: Bristol
When: 26/10/2024
Instructors: Daisuke Watanabe Sensei
What a fantastic day it was for Natalie, training hard, learning loads, meeting new karateka and catching up with old friends too.
Absolutely awesome seminar and kumite masterclass with Watanabe Sensei at Bristol Karate Academy! 4 hours of training, Natalie paired up with karateka who challenged her and had the best time training with Sensei Watanabe who came to teach all the way from Japan. Thank you to Tim Sensei and everyone else for organising. Brilliant seminar
HDKI National Championships
Where: North Solihull
When: 12/10/2024
Instructors:
Fantastic results for everyone from Sonchō Karate Club at the HDKI GB National Open Championships 2024.
Congratulations to every single one of you,
you did the club and your families proud today! Natalie spent the day coaching, jumping and screaming with joy, seeing others do so well today
Thank you to everyone working incredibly hard behind the scenes who organised the championships and to all the referees and table officials for all their hard work!
HDKI International Cup
Where: Dublin
When: 22/09/2024
Instructors:
What a weekend!
Fantastic results for the HDKI - GB team in the HDKI International Cup, congratulations to every single one of you, from competitors and officials, to parents and friends.
We were honoured to be part of such a good team and all of us in our category achieved something special and unique to each of us, these are the best wins! The support and encouragement, understanding and a bit of fun are the best prizes we can get and give.
HDKI International Seminar with Guy Brodeur Sensei and Scott Langley Sensei
Where: Dublin
When: 20-21/09/2024
Instructors: Guy Brodeur Sensei and Scott Langley Sensei
We travelled all the way to Dublin this time!
Such a brilliant seminar, 2 fantastic days full of karate with superb instruction from Scott Langley Sensei and Guy Brodeur Sensei.
Wonderful to meet and train with karateka from different countries, make new friends and catch up with the old friends!!
With over 100 participants from 12 different countries this truly was a fantastic weekend!
GB Open Karate Championships
Where: Birmingham
When: 15/09/2024
Instructors:
Natalie travelled to Birmingham and with Eden Sensei they both got lots of practice ready for the HDKI International competition next weekend.
Natalie was pushed on the area gaining more experience and was even invited to be centre referee which shows how well she is doing. Very lucky to have Doru Sensei as a mentor.
Thank you for the opportunity!
Laurel and Hazel in London!
Where: London
When: 10/09/2024
Instructors:
Congratulation to Laurel who won our Soncho Karate on the roads trophy for the best karate photo from their travels during summer holidays!
That mawashi geri is pretty awesome!
Well done ladies and thank you to everyone who sent us their photos this summer.
Seminar with Rick Hotton Sensei and Scott Langley Sensei
Where: Basingstoke
When: 08/09/2024
Instructors: Rick Hotton Sensei and Scott Langley Sensei
Natalie, Maryse and Marius travel to Basingstoke!
A fantastic day at the seminar with Rick Hotton Sensei and Scott Langley sensei.
Maryse, Natalie and Marius took away loads of brilliant ideas and tips from both sessions.
Great to catch up with Paul and everyone else!
Thank you for organising, and we look forward to seeing many friends in Dublin later this month!
Natalie and Maryse at the Welsh Karate League
Where: Merthyr
When: 01/09/2024
Instructors:
Natalie and Maryse changed their karate suits for the judge uniforms today!
Getting lots of practice and mentoring in the Welsh Karate League as judges. The day was a fantastic experience where Natalie and Maryse have been mentored and guided by some fantastic WUKF referees.
Having fast reactions, being fully focused and in control providing athletes with great experiences on the day is a lot of hard work!!
Tividale Shotokan Karate club hosts Mandie and Dan Sensei from Dudley Shukokai Karate Club
Where: Tividale
When: 30/08/2024
Instructors: Mandie Read Sensei, Daniel Read Sensei
We’re very lucky to have been able to train with Mandie Sensei & Dan Sensei, who came to teach at Tividale Shotokan Karate Club!
Mandie and Dan Senseis are both AKA Squad Coaches and their sessions are always full of energy and great atmosphere!
Super sweaty session and brilliant atmosphere! Thank you to Lesley and Steve Senseis for having Natalie and Maryse train with you all.
Shogai 10th Anniversary Summer Camp
Where: South Leverton
When: 16-18/08/2024
Instructors: Andrea Carbon Sensei,
Julie Nicholson Sensei, John Holdsworth Sensei, Paul Uren Sensei, Justin Beatie Sensei
We packed our tents and headed to Shogai Karate Dojo for the Shogai 10th Anniversary Summer Camp.
With Nijushiho being this year’s camp kata Natalie and Maryse have been spoiled for the amount of details and applications that this kata offers. Both ladies had an opportunity to do another mock grading with feedback from the panel of senior instructors.
Thank you to Simon Bligh Sensei for organising, great to see everyone too!
Bob Rhodes Sensei at Bushido Kai Karate Club
Where: Liverpool
When: 10/08/2024
Instructors: Bob Rhodes Sensei
Brilliant day training with Bob Rhodes Sensei at Bushido Kai Karate Club today.
Thank you to Geoff Sensei for having us, it was great to join the line with other local karateka, working on kata, kumite and bunkai of Gojushiho Dai.
Brilliant challenge today, thoroughly enjoyed both sessions! Fantastic to see everyone and what an honour to train at Sensei Geoff's club. Thank you
Tividale Shotokan Karate club hosts Amy Davis Sensei from Shouri Karate Club
Where: Tividale
When: 09/08/2024
Instructors: Amy Davis Sensei
Thank you to Tividale Shotokan Karate Club for having us train with you all, a fantastic kumite session by Amy Sensei!
Amy Sensei is one of the AKA Squad Coaches and in this 2hr kumite session we explored different kumite drills. Everyone was pushed out of their comfort zones and enjoyed getting stuck into those kumite drills!
Shobu Ippon rounds with different partners was a great experience. Brilliant session!!
B&B course with Ross Stewart Sensei and Stuart Amos Sensei
Where: Liverpool
When: 03/08/2024
Instructors: Ross Stewart Sensei and Stuart Amos Sensei
Brilliant day in Liverpool at the open course with Ross and Stuart Senseis.
It was fantastic to see Hazel and Laurel train hard and learn loads. They faced the challenge of partnering up with senior karateka from different clubs and received plenty of support and encouragement. With this being their first course outside the dojo, such commitment deserves a recognition.
Maryse and Natalie keep training hard in and out the dojo, learning loads, bringing training tips and ideas back to the dojo to work on.
No Child Left Behind
Where: Cheltenham
When: 02/08/2024
Instructors: Natalie Sensei and Maryse Sensei
What a fantastic day we have had at the No Child Left Behind Party in the Park today!!!
Such a brilliant atmosphere with loads of fun and laughter!
Hundreds of children and families came together to enjoy all sorts of activities.
It was busy, loads of children had a go at karate using punch bag, pads, Jo staff, agility ladders, resistance tubes and they absolutely loved it!
Thank you to all organisers and other NCLB partners for such a fantastic family fun day!
B&B course with Simon Bligh Sensei and Stuart Amos Sensei
Where: Jersey
When: 21/07/2024
Instructors: Simon Bligh Sensei and Stuart Amos Sensei
Maryse travelled to Jersey Shotokan Karate for an extraordinary day with Simon Sensei and Stuart Sensei. Their expertise and passion for karate were truly inspiring, providing invaluable insights and advanced techniques that left everyone motivated and eager to improve.
The engaging and dynamic sessions not only enhanced our skills but also deepened our appreciation for the art. We're grateful for the opportunity to learn from such esteemed instructors.
Open Course and Dan Grading with Scott Langley Sensei
Where: Liverpool
When: 13-14/07/2024
Instructors: Scott Langley Sensei
A brilliant weekend full of karate at the Open Course and Dan Grading with Scott Langley Sensei (7th Dan).
So much to take away from all sessions that we can apply in our training.
Congratulations to all who passed their grading. Thank you for organising, such a brilliant weekend catching up and training with our friends.
More karate adventures!
National Kumite Squad Training
Where: Dudley
When: 07/07/2024
Instructors: Julie Nicholson Sensei, John Holdsworth Sensei
Fantastic day at the HDKI GB National Kumite Squad Training today!
Julie and John and Paul Senseis put everyone through their paces. A challenging session, loads to take away that we can work on in the dojo. Great to see Maryse, Sandy and Natalie train hard.
Brilliant atmosphere with everyone else getting stuck in and challenging each other!
Thank you for another fantastic session!
Busy weekend for HDKI GB!
Brown and black belt course and dan grading
Where: Portsmouth
When: 06/07/2024
Instructors: Simon Bligh Sensei, Paul Uren Sensei
Maryse travelled to Portsmouth today to train at the brown & black belt course.
Tubes, Empi, kumite, the course was a great opportunity for everyone to train hard and get sweaty.
Maryse paired up with a Nidan candidate for kumite and received a very good feedback from the grading panel.
Fantastic to see Maryse's hard training is paying off as she's preparing for her Sandan!
Brilliant day at the GB Open International and what an experience this was!
Where: Birmingham
When: 30/06/2024
Instructors:
We are beyond proud of everyone who had the courage to step on the tatami today!
Congratulations everyone, absolutely brilliant work today!!! Be proud of yourselves, whether you medalled or not, the experience you gained today is worth so much more!
Competitions expose us to different opponents and styles and highlight areas for improvement. We learn to adapt, perform under pressure, improve our focus and resilience.
Maryse and Natalie have travelled to Greater Manchester to perform at the EKA Open
Where: Leigh
When: 23/06/2024
Instructors:
Maryse and Natalie have travelled to Greater Manchester to perform their grading kata “under pressure” at the EKA Open today.
The aim was to learn from the experience and recognise that when performing a kata under the watchful eyes of the referees, audience, and later grading examiners, you need to believe in yourself and trust your training.
It was a great experience, well done ladies!
Another early start to the day,
our 6th trip to Greasby Shotokan Karate Club
Where: Greasby
When: 16/06/2024
Instructors: Stuart Amos Sensei
Yet again we made our way to Greasby Shotokan Karate Club to train with and learn from Stuart Amos Sensei.
Fantastic to have Tony Chin and Christine Donnelly join in at kumite training to challenge us and really push us.
We have been asked to explain application of selected sections of our grading kata in front of everyone at the club and received some valuable feedback from Stuart Sensei.
National Kata Squad Training
Where: Dudley
When: 09/06/2024
Instructors: Julie Nicholson Sensei, John Holdsworth Sensei
Another productive day at the HDKI GB National Kata Squad Training looking at the details of all Heian Katas for elimination rounds, followed by Nijushiho and Gojushiho Sho.
Great to see Maryse, Sandy and Natalie train together today.
Thank you to Julie & John Senseis for all their support and brilliant session.
Kata and Kumite Course with Bob Rhodes Sensei and Jason Cunningham Sensei
Where: Faversham
When: 26/05/2024
Instructors: Sensei Bob Rhodes, Sensei Jason Cunningham
Thank you Senseis Bob Rhodes and Jason Cunningham for two great training sessions today.
Tekki Nidan with bunkai,
kumite and work on mawashi geri and ushiro mawashi geri followed by self defence techniques.
Brilliant morning full of karate!
HDKI
Ireland Open Championships
Where: Dublin
When: 19/05/2024
Instructors:
Spirited performances today from squad members representing HDKI GB at the HDKI
Ireland Open Championships. Congratulations to Aleena who won silver in the 12-15 Mixed Kata and Girls Kumite events.
Thank you Natalie, Jonathan, Chris and Aleena for stepping up and leaving everything on the mat, you did yourselves proud and brought home a silver medal each. Fantastic to see the team spirit and support for each other.
On the roads again to Greasby Shotokan Karate Club for more karate training
Where: Greasby
When: 12/05/2024
Instructors: Stuart Amos Sensei
Absolutely brilliant training at Greasby Shotokan Karate Club. Advanced Kata worked on Nijushiho form, and those grading this year explained their kata applications.
Kumite Session worked on competition and grading kumite. Stuart Sensei covered an enormous amount of detail with us, as well as different tips. Challenging kumite class but what a fantastic opportunity to practise.
Thank you to Stuart Sensei for his help.
Northern Squad Training
Where: Liverpool
When: 04/05/2024
Instructors: Stuart Amos Sensei, John O'Neill Sensei, Ivor Thomas Sensei
Had the most amazing day at the HDKI GB Northern Squad Training with such well planned sessions, each one covering different elements, yet all of them equally challenging.
Training opportunities like these are always worth travelling to as they offer so many great tips and ideas that can be applied in the dojo.
Thank you to all Senseis, absolutely superb squad training, loved every minute!
Sonchō Karate Club
Where: Cheltenham
When: 23/04/2024
Instructors: Natalie Böttcher Sensei
When Sanjo meets Sonchō magical things happen!
Our friend Claire from Sanjo Karate - HDKI Preston paid us another visit and brought loads of great energy with her!
Wonderful to see you again Claire!
National Kumite Squad Training
Where: Dudley
When: 21/04/2024
Instructors: Julie Nicholson Sensei, John Holdsworth Sensei
A brilliant day at the National Kumite Squad Training in Dudley with Maryse and Sandy joining the training.
Thank you to Julie & John Senseis for all the support and organising.
National Kata Squad Training
Where: Guildford
When: 17/03/2024
Instructors: Julie Nicholson Sensei, John Holdsworth Sensei
Brilliant day at the kata squad training with Julie and John senseis.
Loads to take away and some great tips that we can apply in our regular training too.
Both Maryse and Natalie had a chance to work on their grading kata and learn from the best.
Thank you for organising.
The Legend Open Championships
Where: Guildford
When: 16/03/2024
Instructors:
Great experience at The Legend Open today.
Had one goal, that was to get through to the next round in kata so I can test my grading kata under pressure.
Over and above what I had hoped to achieve.
3rd in kata
1st in kumite
Fantastic to see HDKI referees do a great job and to catch up with Alice from Kanshin Karate Club.
Natalie and Maryse visit Greasby Shotokan Karate Club for the 3rd time this year
Where: Greasby
When: 10/03/2024
Instructors: Stuart Amos
Another brilliant morning training with our friends at Greasby Shotokan Karate Club.
Maryse and Natalie have stepped up their training as they are both preparing for their grading. We are very lucky to have such fantastic instructors who share their knowledge and experiences with us.
A very productive day, loads to take home and practise over the next month.
Thank you!
HDKI GB Brown & Black Belt seminar
Where: Basingstoke
When: 03/03/2024
Instructors: Julie Nicholson, John Holdsworth, Paul Uren
A few of us travelled to the HDKI GB Brown & Black Belt seminar.
Great spirit and attitude by all who attended. The focus of the seminar was freedom, flow and fluidity across the Nidan syllabus and above.
Congratulations to those who passed Shodan, including Charlie from our Cheltenham dojo.
Well done!
AMA International Karate Championships 2024
Where: Sheffield
When: 17/02/2024
Instructors:
A challenging weekend at the International Karate Championships 2024, with athletes from different countries competing against each other.
Natalie has been working on her grading katas and her goal was to test them under the watchful eyes of the referees. Not only she got through to the final round in both kata events, she even managed to bag a silver medal. Over and above what she had hoped to achieve.
Natalie and Maryse visit Greasby Shotokan Karate Club once again
Where: Greasby
When: 11/02/2024
Instructors: Stuart Amos
Brilliant morning at Greasby Shotokan Karate Club. Advanced Kata and Kumite Sessions excellently taught by Sensei Stuart Amos.
Yet again, Maryse and Natalie have travelled to train with and learn from our friends at the Greasby Shotokan Karate Club where Sensei Dave Goodall presented them with t-shirts for the FairFight Foundation.
Fantastic day, as always, loads to take home and practise. Thank you!
Natalie & Sensei Robert Rhodes
teach at Canterbury SKC
Where: Faversham
When: 28/01/2024
Instructors: Robert Rhodes,
Natalie Böttcher
Brilliant morning at Canterbury Shotokan Karate Club. It was a great honour for Natalie to teach alongside Sensei Bob Rhodes.
Technical and challenging session with Sensei Bob going over details and bunkai of Nijushiho kata. Learned loads and great to partner up with Sensei Debbie and receive so much attention.
Natalie led a high energy, fast paced kumite session in the second hour.
1st squad training of the year
Where: Dudley
When: 21/01/2024
Instructors: Julie Nicholson, John Holdsworth, Paul Dowell
Great to see Maryse, Natalie and Smaira train hard who travelled together to the HDKI GB National Kumite Squad Training.
Brilliant teaching by Senseis John, Julie and Paul with plenty of great tips to take away from the training and practise in the dojo.
Thank you for organising, it’s great to be back training with the squad.
Natalie & Maryse travel to
Greasby Shotokan Karate Club
Where: Greasby
When: 15/01/2024
Instructors: Stuart Amos
First of the many trips this year for Natalie and Maryse as they are both preparing for their grading.
Fantastic morning training with and learning from our karate friends at Greasby Shotokan Karate Club. Advanced Kata took Nijushiho apart and worked on form. Kumite Session worked on fast drills.
Thank you to Stuart Sensei for his help.
HDKI GB 2023 Christmas Course
Where: Dudley
When: 9-10/12/2023
Instructors: Julie Nicholson, John Holdsworth, JD Swanson, Scott Langley, Rick Jackson
Brilliant weekend full of karate at the HDKI GB 2023 Christmas Course!
Fantastic instruction, so much to take away from all sessions and apply in training. Thank you to everyone involved in organising the course, it was great to see everyone.
HDKI Squad Training with the national coaches
Where: Blackwater
When: 19/11/2023
Instructors: Julie Nicholson, John Holdsworth
Fantastic day at the HDKI Squad Training with national coaches , loads to take away and work on.
Thank you Julie & John Senseis for your time
and thank you to Steve & Amanda sensei for organising
Open seminar with Sensei Matt Price at Bristol Karate Academy
Where: Bristol
When: 05/11/2023
Instructors: Matt Price
What a fantastic seminar with Sensei Matt Price at Bristol Karate Academy today. Thank you so much Matt Sensei for all the great tips and inspiration.
Thank you also to Tim Sensei for hosting and having me and Maryse join the seminar, we really appreciate it and will keep an eye on the next opportunity to join in.
Kumite & Kata Course with Bob Rhodes & Stuart Amos
Where: Faversham
When: 22/10/2023
Instructors: Bob Rhodes & Stuart Amos
Always learning, always improving!
A brilliant morning training with Senseis Bob Rhodes and Stuart Amos in Faversham.
Learned loads, fantastic atmosphere, great challenging partners, and a lovely company in the car, great time!
Peak Performance Seminar
Training & Lecture
Where: Chelteham
When: 21/10/2023
Instructors: John Holdsworth
& Julie Nicholson
We had a fantastic day with Julie & John Sensei in Cheltenham today. John and Julie Sensei gave a brilliant lecture that provided everyone with loads of ideas on how they can improve their/their students’ performance. We covered brown/black belt kata in details which we can apply in our training. Thank you so much to everyone who joined us and a colossal thank you to Julie and John Sensei for the inspiration and support
HDKI GB National Open Championships
Where: Dudley
When: 15/10/2023
Instructors:
Thank you to all the organisers, referees/judges and helpers who worked so hard to make HDKI GB National Open Championships such a successful event.
Loads of fantastic feedback received from Sonchō Karate Club members for whom this was their very first time they competed in front of such a great audience.
Massive milestones have been reached and everyone went home happy with what they achieved! Couldn’t ask for more!
Brown & Black Belt Training
Where: Winchcombe
When: 30/09/2023
Instructors: Simon Bligh, Paul Uren
Great day at the B&B training with Paul Uren + Simon Bligh Senseis in Winchcombe.
Great to see everyone and super proud of Marius, Jakub and Oliver who yet again pushed themselves out of their comfort zones.
Congratulations to those who passed their Dan grading, fantastic attitude!!!
Kumite & Kata Course with Bob Rhodes Sensei 8th Dan
Where: Faversham
When: 24/09/2023
Instructor: Bob Rhodes
Thank you for a great Kumite & Kata Course with Bob Rhodes Sensei.
Enjoyed the kumite combinations and a detailed Kankudai kata session. As always, plenty to take home from the course and apply in our regular training.
Lucky boys getting some extra attention from Bob Sensei.
Thank you, really appreciate it all.
Kata Buddies Mini Championships in aid of FairFight
Where: Cheltenhan
When: 23/09/2023
Instructors: Maryse, Natalie, Tamsin, Eden
We held the Kata Buddies Mini Championships, giving young martial artists the chance to showcase their kata skills while raising awareness about FairFight. We surpassed our fundraising goal and raised a total of £270 in support of FairFight!
Thank you so much to everyone who participated, and especially to Sensei Natalie Böttcher and FairFighter Maryse Degbegni for organising such a fun and successful competition. Thank you to Eden and Tamsin for their support and fantastic referee skills.
GB Open Karate Championships
Where: Birmingham
When: 09/09/2023
Instructors:
Fantastic day at the GB Open Karate Championships! It was great to see all our old and new friends again who have come together from all corners of the country to compete at such a well organised championships. Thank you to all the organisers, you have done a brilliant job as always.
Matthew Last Memorial Seminar - with Ken Hori & Scott Langley
Where: Cambridge
When: 26/08/2023
Instructors: Ken Hori & Scott Langley
I always enjoy training with instructors from different clubs and associations, karate is a lifelong study and I’m very grateful for all those opportunities to learn.
Very much enjoyed today, the atmosphere was brilliant, people from different towns/cities, countries and associations - such a wonderful day with wonderful people and an honour to meet Sensei Ken Hori who organised the memorial seminar.
2023 WUKF World Karate Championships
Where: Dundee
When: 14/072023
Instructor:
What an experience!!!!!!!!
I have enjoyed the whole process, the preparation, the support, the advice, the time spent training, even my early morning runs!
My medal will remind me of the brilliant time we, the HDKI GB Squad team, had together in Dundee, the support, the laughter, the excitement, the atmosphere, absolutely brilliant, loved every moment!
Strategy Kumite Training
Where: Dundee
When: 12/072023
Instructor: Christophe Pinna
Train with the best and learn from them!!!
Absolutely fantastic session with the one and only, karate legend, Christophe Pinna !
Thank you to Kanzen Karate for such a fantastic opportunity and Mandie Read for being my partner.
Scott sensei and Ru Sensei training course
Where: Basingstoke
When: 01/072023
Instructor: Scott Langley, Ru Mew
An absolutely brilliant day training with Scott sensei and Ru Sensei in Basingstoke today! Thank you 🙇♀️
Thank you to Steve, Amanda and Dave Sensei for organising, and my wonderful friend Maryse for joining me.
All Grades Course and Dan Grading with Scott Langley Sensei
Where: Liverpool
When: 25/06/2023
Instructor: Scott Langley
Today has been brilliant!
Really enjoyed learning a new kata - Hakuhachi Ho.
It was wonderful to see all the hard work has paid off and new Dan grades have been awarded - congratulations to you all!
Dave Sensei from Greasby Shotokan Karate Club has surprised me with the most beautiful gift from Japan - thank you sooo much, I shall treasure that 😊
Wales Open Championships
Where: Neath
When: 11/06/2023
Instructor:
Always wonderful to see HDKI GB referees in action at the competitions.
Great day at the Wales Open Championships, well run event, thank you to all organisers and officials for all their hard work.
Tried 2 new tokui kata (silver medal) and explored new things in kumite (gold medal).
Great to get more mat experience before the WUKF World Championships in Dundee this July.
Ladram Bay
Where: Devon
When: 28/05/2023
Instructor:
Well there's no rest for the wicked, as someone told me, right?
Early morning training by the sea during the bank holiday weekend working on stamina, form, loads of kihon repetitions and of course kata!
HDKI Ireland Open National Championships in Dublin
Where: Dublin
When: 21/05/2023
Instructor:
A good day in Dublin, grateful for all the support from HDKI - GB team and absolutely fantastic to have our squad coaches Julie Nicholson and John Holdsworth with us!
The day finished with a spirited kumite event between chosen competitors to represent HDKI International against another association. Natalie brought home 3 medals from the championships - 2 golds and 1 bronze (individual kata, HDKI international team kumite, individual kumite)
Sanjo Karate Preston student Claire visits Sonchō Karate Club
Where: Cheltenham
When: 16/05/2023
Instructor: Natalie Böttcher
Wonderful to have a special visit from our lovely friend Claire from Sanjo Karate - HDKI Preston! Always great to have our friends join us and we have been very fortunate to have such a great circle of friends visiting us recently!
HDKI Squad coaches come to Cheltenham to give 2 on 1 session
Where: Cheltenham
When: 14/05/2023
Instructor: John Holdsworth, Julie Nicholson
They say train with the best and learn from them. Well that’s what I did today!
A wonderful opportunity arose and I grabbed it with both hands!!
Incredibly grateful to have Julie and John Senseis come and share their feedback, tips and experiences with me today.
Learned loads, now to apply it all in my training.
Open Training and Kyu grading with Bob Rhodes Sensei (8th Dan)
Where: Cheltenham
When: 13/05/2023
Instructor: Bob Rhodes (8th Dan)
It was a great honour to have Sensei Bob Rhodes come and teach at Sonchō Karate Club today. A fantastic, challenging first session followed by a technical second session. Congratulations to everyone who successfully passed their first grading at Sonchō under Bob Rhodes Sensei.
GB Open Karate Championships
Where: Birmingham
When: 07/05/2023
Instructors:
Such a good day at GB Open Karate Championships, enjoyed it, tried new things and learned loads.
Great to see all karate friends and this time I have brought some students with me to spectate.
HDKI GB National Squad Training
Kumite Only Session
Where: Dudley
When: 23/04/2023
Instructors: Josh Holdsworth, Julie Nicholson, Nick Keys
Brilliant day at the HDKI GB National Squad Training - Kumite Only Session
Loads of great tips from John, Julie and Nick Senseis
Fantastic to see everyone as always.
Seminar and Dan Grading with Sensei Scott Langley, 7th dan
Where: Guildford
When: 16/04/2023
Instructors: Scott Langley
Brilliant day at the seminar today.
Fantastic seminar as always, a real treat to have Scott Sensei come and teach in Guildford today, thank you to Kanshin Karate Club for organising. Wonderful to have my lovely friend Maryse join me too, just like the old days
HDKI GB Northern Black and Brown Belt Course and Dan Grading
Where: Liverpool
When: 01/04/2023
Instructors: Simon Bligh, Daniel Broudie
An absolutely brilliant day at the HDKI GB Northern Black and Brown Belt Course and Dan Grading. Thank you for the opportunity to train with such a great spirited group and congratulations to all who passed their grading.
All Grades Course
Where: Guildford
When: 26/02/2023
Instructors: Bob Rhodes, Neil Jerome
A good day in Guildford, I really enjoyed the precision and accuracy training with Neil Sensei and it was great to see Bob Rhodes Sensei today, too.
Loads to take home and work on.
Thank you for organising this fantastic training opportunity.
EKA Open Karate Championships
Where: Leigh
When: 29/01/2023
Organiser: English Karate Academy
Thoroughly enjoyed the EKA Open Karate Championships, really good day, lots of lessons learnt and even got to join the EKA kumite team.
Fantastic to see everyone and have support from friends from Ronin Washington SKC.
A massive thank you to the organisers and all the judges/referees for all their hard work.
Two silver medals in kumite events with some very strong performances.
HDKI GB National Squad Training
Where: Dudley
When: 22/01/2023
Instructors: Julie Nicholson, John Holdsworth, Nick Keys
A wonderful day training at the HDKI GB National Squad Training - Kumite Only Session today. I had a pleasure of being joined by my superhero Yingtai who worked super hard (and punched me every time when we partnered up!)
Thank you to our amazing squad coaches for all their advice, it was yet another very informative session with loads to take home and work on.
Where: Oldbury
When: 10-11/12/2022
HDKI GB Christmas Course
Whole weekend full of karate training and karate talks.
Instructors: Scott Langley, Bob Rhodes, Felipe Martins, Simon Bligh
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Where: Faversham
When: 16/10/2022
Sunday Training
Absolutely fantastic sessions, small group with big budo attitude! Kata and Kumite
Plenty to take home and work on.
Instructor: Bob Rhodes
Where: Cheltenham, Balcarras Sports Centre
When: 25/09/2022
HDKI GB Southern Squad Training
What a great morning full of training, competition kata and kumite practice,
agility training, referee talks
Instructor: Becky Cox Symmonds
Where: Faversham
When: 11/09/2022
Kata and Kumite Course
Lovely day at Canterbury Shotokan Karate Club, we looked at details and bunkai applications of Heian Nidan and Sochin kata and had a good challenging kumite session.
Instructors: Bob Rhodes, Natalie Böttcher
Where: South Leverton
When: 19-21/08/2022
Shogai Summer Camp
An absolutely smashing weekend full of karate training and talks. Massive thank you for all the fantastic sessions.
Instructors: Julie Nicholson, John Holdsworth, Andrea Carbon, Justin Senseis
and Simon Bligh Sensei
Where: Dudley
When: 24/07/2022
HDKI GB Squad Training
Yet another fun and sweaty day at the squad training, kata, kumite, great atmosphere and a fantastic coaching.
Instructors: Julie Nicholson, John Holdsworth, Nick Keys
Where: Plymouth
When: 03/07/2022
Seminar & Dan Grading
What a fantastic session, technical, full of details, challenging and absolutely awesome.
Thank you to Plymouth Karate Club
Instructor: Scott Langley
Where: Basingstoke
When: 12/06/2022
Rick Hotton Sensei Seminar
Brilliant day full of karate and aikido
at the Rick Hotton Sensei seminar in Basingstoke.
Instructor: Rick Hotton
Where: Dudley
When: 08/05/2022
HDKI GB National Squad Training & Selections
Fantastic sessions today led by our squad coaches, concentrating on elements of kata and kumite performance together with what the referees are looking for. Great to see and train with everyone again.
Instructors: Julie Nicholson, John Holdsworth, Nick Keys
Where: Cheltenham
When: 02/04/2022
Interclub Karate Competition
A massive congratulation to all competitors who took part in our friendly Inter-club competition between Cheltenham and Shotokan Tora Winchcombe.
What a great little introduction to competition with some brilliant performances. Well done all, you made us all very proud!!!
Organiser: Natalie Bottcher
Where: Sheffield
When: 05/03/2022
AMA International Karate Open 2022
They say train with the best and learn from them! Well this is exactly what I did today!
Incredibly grateful for all the advice and experience Shelly Collinson has shared with me today. We even got to fight in the finals, can’t wait to see you again Shelly
Oh and I arrived late so missed my kata event 😣
Where: Chipping
When: 20/02/2022
HDKI GB Open competition training
An energetic HDKI GB Open competition training today with Nick Keys Sensei and John and Julie Sensei. Brilliant kata and kumite sessions, plenty covered and great to be able to catch up with our karate friends.
Instructors: Nick Keys, John Holdsworth and Julie Nicholson
Where: Guildford
When: 09/01/2022
HDKI GB Open Competition Training
Cracking HDKI GB Open Competition Training with Becky Sensei. Great atmosphere and full dojo!
Instructors: Becky Cox-Symmonds
Where: Leigh
When: 24/10/2021
EKA Open Karate Championships
It was a good day at EKA Open Karate Championships today! Great to be back and see all those fabulous people again.
Plenty of brilliant advice from Lucie Marsh and it was so good to catch up with Andrea Carbon. Congratulations ladies, you were AMAZING.
Where: online
When: 19/09/2021
Online kata competition
I like to spice things up. I got inspired at Shogai karate summer camp a few weeks back and toyed with this new idea that was planted in my head by Andrea Sensei.
So I entered an online kata comp with a goju-ryu kata and placed 2nd!
Not bad considering last time I competed with this kata was 21 years ago
Where: Birmingham
When: 05/09/2021
GB Open Karate Championships
It’s been a great day with karateka from all corners of the country and beyond. I got to meet some brilliant people, had the most amazing coach for the day Lucie Marsh who gave me tons of advice and was an absolute superstar. I am ever so grateful for all the support from the one and only, awesome Shelly Collinson. Thank you so much, your support is very very much appreciated.
Great experience at today's GB Open, 2 shiny medals made their way back to Cheltenham. Natalie Bottcher
Where: South Leverton
When: 20/08-22/08/2021
Shogai Summer Camp 2021
Dreaded morning run followed by karate training sessions and karate talks. Fantastic weekend full of karate. Referee training with Nick Keys and Paul Uren Senseis, followed by a mock dan grading for all those hoping to grade for Shodan to Sandan within the next year or so. Everyone was tired but it was such a good opportunity to put ourselves under pressure a bit, learn something and step out of our comfort zones.
Instructors: Paul Uren, Simon Bligh, Justin Beattie, Andrea Carbon
Where: Lancaster
When: 27/06/2021
North HDKI GB Kata Squad Training
Brilliant day training with both seasoned and novice competitors alike, the training helped raise the overall standard of everyone's kata performance. The aim was to develop potential, widen access and encourage aspiration at all levels.
Instructors: Julie Nicholson,
John Holdsworth
Where: online
When: 25/04/2021
Black and Brown belt training
I really enjoyed this online session all the way from South Africa, some fantastic advice and another great opportunity to train while in lockdown.
Instructor: Sandra Louw
Where: online
When: 24/03/2021
JKS online training
Superb online session with Matt Price Sensei tonight! Sweaty, aching but happy - another brilliant lockdown training
Instructor: Matt Price
Where: online
When: 13/03/2021
Kumite Seminar with Leonie Kersey
A totally awesome Kumite Seminar with Leonie Kersey, proper sweaty workout and very interactive training.
Instructor: Leonie Kersey
Where: online
When: 06/03/2021
Open Seminar with Christophe Pinna
Fantastic online training with the kumite champion Christophe Pinna Sensei. Thank you Kanzen Karate for organising.
Instructor: Christophe Pinna
Where: online
When: 21/02/2021
Online Open International Course
Such brilliant sessions this weekend, fantastic online training. Thank you Traditional Shotokan Karate UK for organising.
Instructors: Sensei Asuka Sasa
Sensei Ayano Takaki
Sensei Aidan Trimble
Where: online
When: 29/12/2020
10k Karate Clash
An absolutely brilliant killer session, thank you JT
Instructor: Jordan Thomas
Where:
When:
More travels to be added soon
Watch this space for more karate travels from the past, there's loads to come...
Where: Dudley
When: 30/10/2022
HDKI GB National Squad Training
4 energetic hours of competition training, we looked at elements of kata and kumite
Instructors: Julie Nicholson, John Holdsworth, Nick Keys
Where: Birmingham
When: 08/10/2022
HDKI GB National Open Championships
Fantastic day, outstanding performances.
Congratulations everyone!!!
Where: Bury Castle
When: 18/09/2022
AMA Northern Open Championships
Great atmosphere and some fantastic performances, very successful day for many. We brought home 2 medals,
gold for kumite and silver for kata.
Where: Liverpool
When: 06/11/2022
HDKI GB Northern Squad
Absolutely brilliant afternoon full of hard work and loads of feedback.
Instructor: Stuart Amos
Where: Online
When: 08-11/08/2022
Shidoin Geiko
A busy, hot, sweaty penultimate session of Shidoin Geiko. We joined these fantastic people online for 4 days of training.
Where: Guildford
When: 16-17/07/2022
JSKA European Championships
A phenomenal weekend, plenty of medals between the squad members in team and individual events, including our very own Natalie - 2x gold, 1x bronze.
Where: Guildford
When: 26/06/2022
HDKI GB Open Competition and Southern Squad Training
Great sessions and plenty of feedback from Eden Sensei which I’m always super grateful for.
Instructor: Becky Cox Symmonds
Where: Exeter
When: 29/05/2022
Nijushiho session
Totally awesome session at Dokuritsu Karate Club in Exeter, loads of details and applications. Thank you for having me
Instructor: Chrissie Howard
Where: Cheltenham
When: 07/05/2022
Open seminar with Simon Bligh Sensei
Gohon kumite, 2 against 1 reaction kumite, kicking kumite, 2 tough but excellent sessions hosted here in Cheltenham. Thank you for coming down to teach Simon Sensei.
Instructor: Simon Bligh
Where: Leigh
When: 27/03/2022
EKA Open Karate Championships
We had fun at the EKA Open Karate Championships today. Especially pleased with the kata performance. Colossal thank you goes to Lucie Marsh for all the advice she shared with me again. Fantastic to see Shelly Collinson as always. Natalie brought home 2 bronze medals for kata and kumite.
Where: Guildford
When: 26/02/2022
Seminar with Sensei Chrissie Howard
We really enjoyed this fantastic seminar with Chrissie Sensei hosted by Kanshin Karate Club, Guildford.
Encouraging lots of thoughts about where our energy, strength & power come from.
How to best use our bodies to deliver, the best of ourselves and how to use your opponents intention against them.
Instructor: Chrissie Howard
Where: Blackwater & Hawley
When: 13/02/2022
Karate workshop
What a a fabulous day training with these wonderful people. Well done everyone who attended and trained, sweated, worked hard and laughed.
Instructors: Rangan Ravindran, Steve Bailes, Amanda Gisby, Angela Gasperini & Avi Wolfsthal
Where: Dudley
When: 11/12-12/12/2021
HDKI GB Christmas Course 2021
Such an honour to spend the weekend with these amazing senseis who so passionately shared their knowledge at the HDKI GB Christmas Course 2021. A massive thank you to HDKI GB for organising the event!
Instructors: Scott Langley,
Bob Rhodes, Ricardo Galina
Where: Guildford
When: 26/09/2021
JSKA championships
I love a good challenge and today was no exception at JSKA championships.
2 beautiful trophies have just made their way to Cheltenham. But there’s so much more to competing than winning, something that can’t be won, something that can’t be awarded….. I really enjoyed today and that’s what it’s all about! Natalie Bottcher
Where: Basingstoke
When: 12/09/2021
Scott Langley and Christian Øygarden Seminar
Another fabulous seminar and a great opportunity to learn. This felt like a special treat today as I’ve been wanting to take Nijushiho apart for ages and this was an absolutely fantastic opportunity.
Instructors: Scott Langley and
Christian Øygarden
Where: Chipping
When: 29/08/2021
HDKI GB competition training and WUKF rules course
So glad I went to the HDKI GB competition training and WUKF rules course today,
soooo much information regarding the rules, great to see some familiar faces and meet new people.
There’s always something that I find extra special at these events, today it must have been training and a friendly spar with Shelly Collinson.
Thank you for organising, Natalie Bottcher
Instructor: Nick Keys
Where: Exeter
When: 31/07/2021
Open Female Shotokan Karate Training
Wonderful day in the Dojo full of training, fitness, flexibility, karate chatter + more.
Thank you for a fantastic day
Instructor: Chrissie Howard
Where: South Leverton
When: 05/06/2021
Black and Brown belt training
HDKI dan grade syallbus for 1, 2 and 3rd Dan candidates, kihon, kumite and kata practice with feedback
Instructors: Simon Bligh, Justin Beattie
Where: online
When: 10/04/2021
1m² Karate - Hombu Dojo Sensei
Online training with the HDKI Headquarter instructors. Each instructor taught for 30 minutes each, with a short break between. Great experience of the eclectic mix that makes up the teaching team of the Hombu Dojo.
Instructors: Scott Langley, Ross Stewart,
Audrius Janusauskas, Ru Mew
Where: online
When: 21/03/2021
Scottish Karate Seminars
Fantastic online seminars with Kanzen Karate. Very informative and brilliant lockdown training, thank you to all instructors!
Instructors: Roy O'Kane, Kevin Slaney, Gordon Mathie
Where: online
When: 10/03/2021
Sensei Rick Jackson online meditation session
Really grateful for these sessions. A phrase that caught my attention tonight was: "Don't think too much, you'll create a problem that wasn't even there in the first place."
Instructor: Rick Jackson
Where: online
When: 27/02/2021
SKDUN International Online Seminar with Brett Halliday & Colin Putt
Excellent morning at SKDUN International Online Seminar with Brett Halliday & Colin Putt Sensei going over Gogushiho Sho and kumite
Instructor: Brett Halliday & Colin Putt Sensei
Where: online
When: 07/02/2021
Tividale Shotokan Karate Club TV
Hosts Tommy Joe Moore
Thoroughly enjoyed this class, incorporating the hand pad for self practice drills was excellent and I’d definitely like to do more. Thank you Tommy for taking the time this morning sharing your experience and thank you Tividale Shotokan Karate for hosting this fantastic opportunity for everyone.
Instructor: Tommy Joe Moore
Where: Bristol
When: 17/10/2020
Sensei Matt Price - face-to-face seminar
What a fantastic afternoon, loved every minute of the seminar, even the endless painful shiko dachi squats followed by punches in kiba dachi. Learned Junro Godan, had a quick go at Yondan as well, kumite drills, met some lovely people and lots & lots more. Loved it, thank you Bristol Karate Academy.
Instructor: Matt Price