Shoto Rei Karate Kai

The Shoto Rei Karate Kai was founded by R.Wayne Taylor 9th Dan Hanshi, with the aim of fostering a martial spirit

of Mushin or non-ego mind

The association took its name from the pen name of Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of modern day karate, who used Shoto (whispering pines) as his signature when composing haiku (poetry). Rei, symbolising respect and etiquette by means of a salutation; Karate, meaning empty handed and empty in the sense of a clear, ego-less mind (mushin) and Kai meaning council or gathering.

The style of martial arts practiced by students of the association aims to build good character, encourage strength of spirit and develop Ki energy. Much emphasis is placed on traditional values including courage, honesty, humility, integrity, discipline, dedication and loyalty. The concept of the style is based on shotokai karate, originated by GichiFunakoshi then further developed by his son Yoshitaka (Gio) Funakoshi and Shigeru Egami.

Personal development is a priority and the objective is to control or if possible avoid any confrontation by total awareness. Competitiveness is discouraged as is ego, rather a unity of mind, body and spirit is sought. Ki energy of 'life force' is cultivated and focused. The power of relaxation and heaviness combined with kime (focus of energy) is the strength behind the style.

Wayne Taylor, was awarded his Shodan 1st Degree Black Belt, direct from Sensei Mitsusuke Harada, at Summer Camp, at warwick University, 1978, with other Yudansha from the Cwmbran club based at Fairwater Leisure Centre.

Sensei Harada, was awarded his 5th Dan direct from; Master Gechin Funakoshi

My Sincere respect to Sensei Harada

A special thank you to Mr Don Copeman, the Instructor at the Cwmbran club, for his teaching and guidance for many years, who I will alway's consider as one of the best teacher's of Shotokai Karate in UK, he set us on the path with the correct understanding of what was expected of a teacher and spirit of Budo. Mr Don Copeman, was never recognized for the development of Karatedo Shotokai, in Wales as he should have been. I trust the Dan Grades who was Guided by his instruction will not forget him.

Restricted to Tenshin Ryu Budo Kai

to be continued