Tsuru Budo-Kan is a martial arts club located in Newport, specifically in the Treowen Village Hall in Newbridge. The club is dedicated to teaching traditional Japanese martial arts, including Shotokai Karate-Do, Tenshin Ryu Iaido & Iaijutsu, and Jujitsu Self Defence. The club is led by Shihan Keith Hammett, a highly experienced martial artist with a 7th Dan Kyoshi ranking.
The name “Tsuru Budo-Kan” was chosen by Sensei Hammett to symbolise longevity, good fortune, fidelity, peace, and hope. In Japanese culture, the crane, or “tsuru,” represents these qualities. Sensei Hammett has been involved in training and teaching martial arts locally for over 40 years. After the Yodokan Budo Association and the Budokan Abercarn were dissolved and closed, Sensei Hammett opened Tsuru Budo-Kan to continue teaching Budo.
The club is fully insured, with both public liability insurance through MartialGuard Instructors and individual members covered by Martins Martial Arts. Tsuru Budo-Kan's dojo is located in Treowen Village Hall, Newbridge, where the club has been operating since May 2021 after the Covid lockdown. During the lockdown, training sessions were conducted through online Zoom meetings.
Tsuru Budo-Kan has a strong sense of community involvement and has been actively participating in local events. For instance, on the 50th anniversary celebration of Treowen Village Hall, Shihan Keith and other instructors were asked to present a demonstration of what is studied in their Budo class. They showcased Iaido and Iaijutsu to the committee and local residents, highlighting the club's dedication to preserving and sharing the traditional martial arts.
Shihan Keith Hammett has an impressive background in martial arts. He began his journey in 1978, learning Shotokai Karate and early on, Wado Ryu. Throughout his career, he has taught and trained at various locations, including Newbridge Karate Club, Oakdale Comprehensive School, and Cwmcarn Comprehensive School. Sensei Hammett has also participated in numerous martial arts courses and seminars, including the renowned Budo Council's multi-arts demonstration held in London.
In 2002, Budo-Kan Abercarn was opened, becoming the main training location for Tsuru Budo-Kan until 2020. The Rechabite Hall in Abercarn served as the Honbu Dojo Budokan, offering regular classes for adults in Karate-Do, Jujitsu, Iaido, and Judo. Children were also welcome to join classes in Karate-Do & Judo through the Saturday morning “Kids Club. ” Tsuru Budo-Kan had affiliations with Tokushima Budo Council International and Shoto-Rei-Karate-Kai, benefiting from the presence of regular visitor Hanshi Tudor Box.
Tsuru Budo-Kan is a reputable martial arts club in Newport, committed to preserving and passing on the traditions of Japanese martial arts. With Shihan Keith Hammett's expertise and the dedication of its instructors and members, the club provides a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals to learn and grow in their martial arts journey.