Rooksdown Shotokan Karate Club, based in Basingstoke, is a karate school offering classes for all ages and levels of experience. The club is affiliated with TISKA (The Traditional International Shotokan Karate Association), one of the largest associations in the UK. Led by Chief Instructor Gursharan Sahota, an 8th Dan black belt, the club provides a supportive and inclusive environment for students to develop their balance, coordination, self-confidence, and discipline.
Gursharan Sahota's passion for karate began at the age of 14 when he joined a local Bedford club. Four years later, he achieved his black belt 1st dan (shodan) and eventually progressed to an 8th Dan. Throughout his career, Gursharan has competed in numerous kata and kumite events at national and international levels. However, his most significant experience came in 1984 when he had the opportunity to train in a Japanese dojo under the instruction of Sensei Hirokazu Kanazawa.
This transformative journey inspired him to dedicate his life to training and teaching karate.
In 1981, Gursharan opened his first club in Luton/Dunstable, which has now become the headquarters of TISKA. In 1993, he founded TISKA as his own karate association, and it has since grown to become one of the largest associations in the country. Gursharan's commitment to teaching karate extends beyond the dojo. He continues to teach over 35 classes per week in the UK and conducts master classes internationally.
He has guided countless students to achieve black belt standard and beyond, instilling in them the values and principles of martial arts.
Outside his karate endeavours, Gursharan is actively involved in charity work. He helps subsidise trips for surgeons to third-world countries, where they operate on underprivileged children. Additionally, he has funded various projects in India and is presently supporting the construction of a new school. Gursharan resides in Buckinghamshire with his family, including his son and daughter, who are already following in his footsteps.
Rooksdown Shotokan Karate Club can be found on social media platforms such as the TISKA Facebook Group and Instagram, where students and enthusiasts can stay up to date with news, events, and class schedules. The club welcomes beginners of all ages, offering a free trial to introduce them to the world of Shotokan Karate. Whether individuals are looking to learn self-defence, improve their fitness, or simply develop their martial arts skills, Rooksdown Shotokan Karate Club provides a nurturing and enriching environment for all.
