About Ishinryu Karate
Ishinryu karate was founded in 1973 when David ‘Ticky’ Donovan opened his first club at Wood Lane in Dagenham near London. Ishinryu is a unique style that was formed using Sensei Donovan’s acquired knowledge of other karate styles including Kyokushinkai, Wado-ryu, and Shotokan.
Ishinryu has a strong record in competition, both in Kumite and Kata, and has produced English, British, European, Commonwealth, and World champions. Many of these successful students went on to open their own Ishinryu clubs.
As well as competition success Ishinryu places great emphasis on traditional karate with basic training and the correct understanding of technique being recognised as the foundation for good karate.
Originally based in and around East London and Essex where this style still thrives, Ishinryu has spread far from these roots and is now taught across the country and around the world including clubs in Australia and New Zealand.
Ishinryu continues to be led by Sensei Ticky Donovan O.B.E. who is currently a 10th Dan.