This meant that Chris Thompson was one of the first breakaways and one of the first Englishmen to formulate his own style, training and grading syllabus.
With many of his senior students feeling the same way they officially left the Wado Ryu group in 1978.
The following is a quote from his first book 'Essentials of Wado Ryu Karate'
"I now went searching for a new home, which involved training with various senior instructors of different schools of karate. This period was invaluable as it broadened my horizons, giving me an insight into the different approach that other instructors had in teaching karate. I made many good friends. For over a year I continued with this programme whilst running several clubs. I admired many aspects of all the karate schools I trained with, but I felt that none could offer exactly what I was looking for. Unbeknown to me at the time I was following the step of Shu-ha-ri."
With five clubs spread over London a name to identify with was needed. Collectively they called themselves 'Wa-shin-kai' Wa - for harmony as Chris Thomspon's roots were with Wado-Ryu; Shin - for heart, mind and spirit as one, also truth; Kai - for group.
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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