Tora Shintai Martial Arts

Happy Fathers Day to all the Tora Dads 🥋

RIP Sensei Richard 🙏🏻🥋

You were my first karate coach, my first club, and the reason I pursued my black belt, competed under the AKF, and took on whatever other event you threw my way. Some of my most favourite years and memories come down to being at Goshin Ryu Liverpool and the camps at Blackheath.

You taught me to strive, to try, to achieve — and eventually, to earn that black belt (finally, in 2000!) after being a 1st Kyu for five years 😂. You also inspired me to become a coach and encouraged me to open a dojo in Bonnyrigg.

Then, my wings spread and I took my own path.

Looking back, you were a good Papa Bear when I was a teenager, looking after us cheeky girls, keeping us on track and always encouraging us to do better.

So much of who I became in karate began with you. The legacies you created, the paths you paved, and the lives you influenced will always be remembered.

Thank you for believing in me, pushing me, and giving me the foundations to find my own path.

May you rest in peace, Sensei. You will never be forgotten.

Lots of love, Alex 🥋🙏🏻🥋