Lineage of Aikido
Master Shigeho Tanaka 9th Dan - Emeritus Shihan
Master Tanaka trained from an early age in Judo, Karate and Kendo. He initially studied Yoshinkan Aikido, under Master Gozo Shioda, in the 1950's. He also trained with Morihei Ueshiba O'Sensei the founder of Aikido and trained in Kashima Shinryu Swordmanship under Master Kuni Zen'ya. He was president and chief instructor at the Shiseikan Dojo at the Meiji Jingu Shrine and now holds a rank of Honorary instructor there. He teaches and travels in Japan, Europe and has taught Aikido seminars in the UK since 1992.
Sensei Chris MacDonald 6th Dan (AMA) - Vice President of the Aikido Union England (1960-2008)
Sensei Chris MacDonald began his study of Aikido in Nottingham in 1985. After attaining his 1st Dan he set up the Derby Aikikan Dojo in 1990. The club moved location over the years and Sensei Chris had a very successful following of students. He attended many Aikido courses, and due to his dedication rose through the ranks. In 1996 he became Vice President of the Aikido Union England, a position which he held unitl his untimely death in November 2008. He was a well respected, and liked member of the martial arts fraternity and he will be sadly missed.
Sensei Barry Gibson - 5th Dan
Barry began his Aikido practice in 1992 under Chris MacDonald. He attended Derby Aikikan Dojo, and through the years eventually became Assistant Coach there. He also has had several bouts of Cancer, and has overcome them due to his strong spiritual nature. His Aikido is dynamic, but practical. Over the years Barry has run Dojos at Melton Mowbray and currently teaches at Isshin Dotai Aikido. He also teaches courses at various locations throughout the U.K.
Sensei John Shields - 5th Dan
John began his study of Aikido in 1988 at Nuneaton Aikido Club under Sensei Pip Mahony and Sensei Mick Hammonds. He attained his first Dan in 1992, and attended many courses held by Pat Stratford. He moved to Derby in 1995, and trained at Derby Aikikan Dojo under Chris MacDonald. He was Assistant Coach from 1996-1999. He is interested in weapons study, and helps coach at Isshin Dotai Aikido. He also teaches courses at various locations around the U.K.
Aikido Kanji