Gichin Funakoshi,(the father of modern Karate) was born in 1868 in Okinawa.  He was a very humble man who taught Karate as a way of life.  His philosophy was that Karate should never be used to hurt anyone, only as a defense if there were no other choice. In 1922 he took Karate to Japan where he taught and trained until his death in 1957.

Born in Japan he began training under Master Funakoshi in 1937. Appointed Chief Instructor of the JKA in 1955. During his life he wrote more then 20 karate books.  He is credited with promoting karate world wide.

He began training in 1947 and studied under Master Funakoshi.  Since 1961 he has been in Philadelphia, Penn., U.S.A.  and is the Chairman and Chief Instructor of the International Shotokan Karate Federation.  Master Okazaki truly lives karate and is committed to excellence in technique and spirit.  He visited Port Hardy July 11 1998.

Master Yaguchi is Vice Chairman and Vice Chief Instructor of the International Shotokan Karate Federation. He earned his first and second degree black belts under master Funakoshi and has trained since 1950.  His Dojo is in Denver Colorado, he visits British Columbia often and inspires us with his dedication and passion for Karate.

World Cup Finalist Tokyo, Pan-American Champion, four time Woman's National Champion, two time Women's Team Champion, and four times best contestant.  Her charismatic energetic enthusiasm for Karate is an inspiration to all of us who are privileged to train with her.

Chief technical advisor for British Columbia, Sensei Dixon is a former Navy man with a deep understanding of technical as well as practical Karate.  His seminars are powerful and full of street wise self defense applications as well as correct performance and technique of Kata.

A real Gentleman, his Karate comes from his heart.  It can flow like water, and then turn into a Tiger in an instant.  He lives in Chile, and has visited Port Hardy twice.  Sensei Puchi is Sensei Ivan DeToro's first Sensei.

He came to Port Hardy in 1984 and founded Bushido Shotokan Karate-Do Academy.  Sensei DeToro is a very dedicated martial artist who lives Karate-Do.  He has a deep understanding not only of the physical side of Karate but also the psychological side.  He demands and teaches excellence to his students.