Bedford West Shotokan Karate is dedicated to teaching traditional Japanese karate with an emphasis on the practical application of kata. Typical training includes kihon (basics), kata, (forms), kumite (sparring) and bunkai (kata application). Kata applications include kicks, punches, strikes, locks, and throws.
Andy Allen, 6th dan, is the chief instructor of BWSK and has been practicing Shotokan karate since 1990. His karate teaching experience includes instructing at Dal Tech (formerly T.U.N.S.) from 1994 to 1997. He also has been teaching an accredited martial arts course in the public school system since 2005.
Sensei Allen has competed provincially, nationally and internationally. He has been provincial kata and kumite champion for many years. Sensei Allen has also acquired numerous medals at the national level as well. Recently, He was a quarter finalist in senior men's kumite and won gold in senior kata at the ISKF World Championships in Cape Town, South Africa.
Jake Crawford, assistant instructor, holds the rank of 5th dan and has been training since 1994. Sensei Crawford has been teaching an accredited martial arts course in the public school system since 2006. He has won numerous medals at the provincial and national level.
