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 Gichin
Funikoshi, born in Okinawa in 1868 is
considered the father of modern karate. He studied karate from childhood
before introducing it to Japan in 1922. In 1936, the Shotokan School was
established. In 1955, the Japan Karate Association was established with
Funikoshi as its Chief Instructor.
 Master
Masatoshi Nakayama,
born in Japan 1913 became the successor of Funikoshi and the 2nd
Chief Instructor of the JKA. Master Nakayama is recognized for introducing
karate to the world and popularizing karate competition. Master Nakayama is
the author of over 20 books on Shotokan Karate.
 Master
Teruyuki Okazaki is a 10th Degree
Black Belt and Chief Instructor of the ISKF. He is a former student of
Funikoshi and Nakayama. In 1961, the JKA sent Master Okazaki to the US where
he has founded one of the largest Shotokan organizations outside of Japan.
Master Okazaki visits Vancouver annually to conduct clinics and Black Belt
exams.
 Master Yutaka
Yaguchi is a 9th Degree Black Belt, Vice Chief Instructor of
the ISKF and Director of the Mountain States and Western Canada. He has
trained in Japan as a student of Nakayama and Okazaki before moving to the
US in 1965. master Yaguchi visits Vancouver twice per year to conduct
training clinics and Black Belt exams.
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