It was in late 1977 that Chris Thompson came to the conclusion that due to be being disillusioned and dissatisfied with the Wado-Ryu organisation in the UK that it would be best if he severed all connections with them.(Note: More Text After Pictures!)
Chris Thompson felt that a specific growth programme for Washinkai had to be created. This was important if the group was going to survive as an independent group and there were to be no contradictions in teaching methods or technique.
Two Japanese instructors, Hironori Goda, a Goju stylist and Takao Yamamoto, a Shito-ryu stylist, stayed and trained with Washinkai for long periods. Over the next few years a grading syllabus was established that took the student from beginner to shodan level (black belt).
Both of these Japanese men continued with the Washinkai teaching programme on their return to Japan.
Washinkai's growth was not rapid as they specifically adhered to the policy of growth from within, a policy still in force 25 years later.
Over the years Washinkai evolved in to a Wado-Ryu based style, becoming more than just a collective name the association was called Washinkai Karate Do Renmei.
In 1997, for many reasons the association changed it's name to the British Traditional Karate Association, who still practice Washinkai Karate.
Today the BTKA has many clubs throughout the South of England and in countries such as Norway, Spain and the USA. All still adhere to the original ideas of Washinkai Karate.
The BTKA is a respected member of the karate world and many groups have styled themselves on the original concept of Washinkai and the BTKA.
The BTKA celebrated 25 years of Washinkai Karate during 2003, View the Slideshow to see some of the highlights from the last 25 years and we look forward to the next 25!
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