A Fantastic Weekend of Karate
The International Spring Course 2026 proved to be an incredible celebration of karate spirit, learning, and international friendship, bringing together hundreds of Karateka from across the globe at K2 Crawley.
Day One opened with an outstanding turnout of more than 250 participants, led by an exceptional team of guest instructors including Osaka Sensei (8th Dan, Japan), Imamura Sensei (8th Dan, Japan), Nemoto Sensei (6th Dan, Japan), Sawada Sensei (8th Dan, Belgium), and Ohta Sensei (8th Dan, England). Students enjoyed high-level technical training and the opportunity to learn directly from some of the most respected instructors in JKA karate.
Momentum continued into Day Two, with attendance growing to nearly 400 participants. Alongside intensive training sessions, the course hosted a wide range of examinations and qualifications, including written assessments for JKA instructor, examiner, and judge certifications, as well as coaching licence assessments, Kyu gradings, and practical judge examinations. The evening concluded with a celebratory gathering at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, giving members the chance to relax and connect with fellow Karateka from around the world.
By Day Three, the event welcomed participants from 17 countries, creating a truly international atmosphere both on and off the dojo floor. The final day featured Dan grading examinations and qualification practicals, with competitors and candidates demonstrating tremendous dedication, spirit, and perseverance throughout the weekend.
A huge thank you goes to all instructors, officials, volunteers, and participants who helped make this year’s International Spring Course such a memorable success. We look forward to welcoming everyone again next year! 🥋
Dan Grade Passes
Rokudan
Bert Stewart - JKA Scotland
Claus Grønskov - JKA Denmark
Siro Castrodeza García - JKA Spain
Godan
Austin Biesty - Shiranamikai
David Kirsopp - Looe SKC
Yondan
Brian Williams - East London JKA Karate Club
Sandan
Sophie Brumm - JKA Scotland
Mcvin Celibio - East London JKA Karate Club
Folley Ogundele - Westminster SKC
Nidan
Elle Behari - East London JKA Karate Club
James Langridge - Yushikai Karate Academy
Oliver Sargood - Yushikai Karate Academy
Adrian Thomas - South London SKC
Shodan
Alexandra Albrecht - Beckenham SKC
Melanie Chang - Invicta Karate Academy
Gareth Dothie - Colchester JKA Karate Club
Hector Fortesa - The Budokwai
Jack Francis - TSKC
Luca Greenwood - Yushikai Karate Academy
Aubrey Greenwood - The Budokwai
Luci Holmes - Invicta Karate Academy
Renee Marquis - Beckenham SKC
Neha Sakthivel - East London JKA Karate Club
Lucas Visconti - The Budokwai
International Qualification Passes
Judge B
Marty Sommerville - JKA Scotland
Spiros Ventouras - Oxford University KC
Instructor B
Jason Ramsay - The Budokwai
Examiner C
Shahinaz Pelter - Bromley & South East London JKA Karate Club
Judge C
Eirunn Waatevik Saure - JKA Norway
Instructor C
Roy Harverson - Reading SKC
Francis Mussai - Oxford University KC
Judge D
Joseph Do - Ethos SKC
Cyrielle Maroteau - Shidokan
Brian Williams - East London JKA Karate Club
Tania Wright - Oasis SKC
Instructor D
Luis Bastidas - Sheffield Mu-shin JKA KC
Jean-Laurent Boissieres - The Budokwai
Man-Suen Chan - Oxford University KC
Thibaut Drai - The Budokwai
Jan Isager - JKA Denmark
Radoslaw Kawalek - JKA Germany
Aoi Nakamura - Shidokan
Tina Du Toit - Tilehurst SKC
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