West Midlands Shotokan Karate Academy

I was thinking a great deal last night of Mr Kato Sensei, after seeing some of the great tributes on social media, and I thought of the great times I have personally spent with him over the years and some of the amazing stories he shared with me. I don't have access to many of the photos over the years, but here's a few of our students with Sensei.

This morning I heard the very sad news that Mr Kato Sensei 9th Dan has passed away.
He had an amazing personality, matched by his level of expertise in Shotokan Karate.
My personal journey with Karate began when I was 13 and met Mr Kato Sensei when I was 15 and was an invaluable influence on my karate journey.
I respected him so very much and will miss him immensely.
My condolences to Milena from all our members of our club. RIP.

Here's some more homework for you. See if you can master all these by the time we resume training. Feel free to send us photos of each stance. Ossu.

Whilst you are at home and self isolating, here's some homework for you. See if you can remember all these by the time we return to the dojo.

West Midland Shotokan Karate Academy has suspended training at our dojo due to the Coronavirus, until further notice. We will advise you once training resumes.

A great night for WMSKA with our Christmas meal last night at Himley Hall. Lots of food and laughter. I think everyone had a good time! Training continues in January 2020.

At what point did you not know there was a pool behind you?

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It is with very deep sadness Kato Shihan would like to inform all IJKA karateka that Hirokazu Kanazawa Shihan sadly passed away today 9th December 2019 at the young age of 88.
Hirokazu Kanazawa Shihan was a strong influence on Kato Shihan's karate and will be sadly missed by the worldwide karate family.
Kato Shihan's IJKA sends deepest condolence to all his family at this sad time.
Rest in peace Sensei.

Very sad news reaches us today of the death of an amazing karateka Samuel Chol. Samuel was one of my students in South Sudan. He lost his battle with an unknown illness a few days ago.
He reached 2nd Kyu and then moved over to Thai boxing. Samuel, you were an formidable martial artist and will be sadly missed. Condolences to your family. (Samuel is pictured in the front row with his arms folded).