Shihan Syndrome.. (UK Related)

Reza Kauzar (sanosuke) wrote: why not? but I haven't heard any 5th dan woman graded by Hombu Dojo.

Mutsuki Minegishi sensei 6th dan aikikai, currently head of aikido of Guam and Saipan. There's one for you. ooops off topic!

I only know of two official british Aikikai Shihan in the UK (both of whom have a certificate of Shihan from Hombu Dojo)

They are:

Mr. Ken Cottier 6th Dan

and Mr. William Smith MBE 6th Dan

However I have met a lot of "Shihan" over the years.

I only know of two official british Aikikai Shihan in the UK (both of whom have a certificate of Shihan from Hombu Dojo)They are: Mr. Ken Cottier 6th Dan and Mr. William Smith MBE 6th Dan

Do you know which Dojo's they teach at by any chance?

You can look up both of these fine teachers on the British Aikido Board website. BTW Mr Smith also has an O.B.E. for his services to the martial arts. I have trained under him on seminars at our club and he is an awesome teacher with a mean line in atemi. Nice man too.

Have fun.

Hi Steven,

Mr. Smith (UK Aikikai) teaches in Cradley, the dojo website is here - http://www.renshinkan.co.uk/

Mr. Cottier is (or was) the chief instructor for the Hong Kong Aikido Association however I think he may now be linked to the British Aikido Federation although I can see no mention of him on their site - http://www.bafonline.org.uk/ perhaps he links with them whilst he is over here in the UK?

Jim, I think Mr. Smith was awarded with M.B.E not the O.B.E.

Mr. Smith does indeed teach at Ren Shin Kan Old Hill West Midlands UK.

The dojo is open 7 days a week and all are welcome no matter what style.

If people want an extended stay contact the dojo beforehand and bring a sleeping bag.

P.S. Mr. Smith was awarded the MBE for his services to Aikido.

Sorry guys, I really should have checked. It was the MBE. Please accept my apologies.

Jim.