Shotokan Karate International Australia (SKIA) was established in 1971 and has numerous registered Clubs in Australia. SKIA is affiliated with Shotokan Karate International Federation (SKIF) with its headquarters in Tokyo, Japan. The International Chief Instructor is Master (Kancho) Hirokazu Kanazawa, 10th Dan who visits this country on a regular basis. Kancho Kanazawa was a student of Gichin Funakoshi the founder of modern day Karate.
The purpose of Karate and its training systems from the "early days" has seen the emphasis in many Karate styles move toward it being viewed as a competitive sport. As we are all aware competition (especially at the elite level) is for the young thus, limited. However, Master Kanazawa's training methods approach Karate as a Martial Art which allows men, women (young and old) and, children to progress within their individual capabilities. The development of mind, body and spirit in the 'martial art' attracts and benefits individuals from all walks of life and promotes longevity. Our primary focus is the "Martial Way" (Budo) which is training for self defence against one or more assailants in real life situations and applying the principles/philosophies learned in the Dojo into our daily lives. Training is structured around a strict syllabus incorporating Basic Techniques (Kihon), Patterns/Forms (Kata) and Sparring (Kumite).
This does not mean that the sport aspect of Karate is ignored - Shotokan Karate includes training in fundamental techniques for the development of a good competitor in both Competition Kumite and Kata. We consider the role of competitions to be beneficial in ones overall development as it places one in an arena where they can test their acquired skills against different opponents in a pressure situation and be better prepared to cope with a real life threat.