"I am sure
the tradition of dedication to training, synonymous with Backwell
SKC, will continue for many years to come." - Sensei Bryan Gideon
Bryan Gideon was born in Bristol on the 19th August 1950. He started training in 1973 when he was asked by his brother-in-law if he would go along and try it out. It was at the Bristol Shotokan Dojo that he took his lessons from his instructor, Sensei Bill Winfield, the instructor known for introducing Karate to the Bristol and former Avon area.
Sensei Gideon started Backwell SKC in 1978 with Bob Padfield on the invitation of two teachers at Backwell Secondary School where the club still trains. It was in 1984 that he was awarded his shodan by Sensei K Enoeda after 11 years of hard training. Throughout his time teaching he has helped many of his students improve their karate considerably. He has now taught many of them from beginner to black belt.
Bryan was proud to become one of the KUGB's long standing members in 1995 with over 20 years of training within the KUGB. This was presented to him at the National Championships in the NIA, Birmingham.
The highlights of Sensei Gideon's karate career have been various. In the past he has enjoyed organising and taking part in karate training weekends in Backwell School's holiday home. More recently seeing his students entering both local and national events has been something that he has taken great pleasure in.
When asked about the club he said, "During my long association with Backwell Shotokan Karate Club I have met some exceptionally talented Karateka and have had the pleasure of helping them achieve their goals, but more than this they have become life-long friends."
