A NEW karate club in Jersey will encourage more islanders to take up the discipline.
Integrity Kenpo Karate plans to offer low-cost lessons which will make the art of Kenpo Karate accessible to a wide range of people. Kenpo Karate was introduced to Jersey in the early 1970s and, together with Ireland, became the main hub for the art outside of America. The sport’s Senior Grand Master Ed Parker came to the island many times during the 1980s to test and promote islanders who are now Associated Masters of the Art (8th degree).
“Kenpo is a system of learning self-defence with Chinese origins but has been modernised for today’s environment using circular and liner movement and is designed to continue to develop rather than relying on historical traditions and training methods which may no longer be relevant. Jersey has always had a strong following in Kenpo and so Integrity Kenpo will work with other clubs in Jersey to promote and expand the teachings,” said Nigel Romeril, one of the founders.
“Our focus is to provide a structured self-defence system for adults and children of all abilities, particularly in the east of the island. The advantage of our system is that all abilities and ages are able to practice Kenpo, which can be adapted to the individual rather than the individual adapting to the art and this makes Kenpo a standout system against other martial arts.”
Mr Romeril said there were many benefits to taking up Kenpo.
“Kenpo is a martial art that combines elements of karate, boxing, and jujitsu. It involves a lot of movement which is great for cardiovascular health, the emphasis on kicks, strikes and blocks improves muscle strength, flexibility and balance and the combination of movements benefits coordination. We also want to encourage members to meet new people and socialise at organised events in Jersey and other Kenpo hubs throughout Europe.”
The club has been supported with its establishment by investment management company Titan Wealth, which rebranded from Ravenscroft earlier this year.
“Titan Wealth have been an invaluable support to Integrity Kenpo. Start up costs is a major obstacle for any new venture, Titan Wealth have provided Integrity not only in monetary terms but have also provided administrative assistance and advice in a professional and friendly manner,” said Mr Romeril.
Kevin Boscher, managing director of Titan Wealth in Jersey, said the company’s community support over the last 20 years had covered many different sports.
‘We’re passionate about supporting sporting clubs, individuals and community events including JS Juniors, triathlete Jack Kennedy, the Swimarathon and the Titan Wealth Relay as part of the Jersey Marathon. We want to ensure that islanders of all ages can be involved in sport and what impressed us about Integrity Kenpo Karate was its focus on offering classes to adults and juniors, whether they have experience or are new to martial arts.”
Kenpo Karate Club will offer junior sessions on Monday from 4.30pm – 5.30pm and on Thursday from 5pm – 6pm at St Nicholas Church, St Clement. The adult sessions will be Monday and Wednesday from 5.30pm – 6.30pm at Caldwell Hall, St Clement. More information is available from Dawn on 07797 719 298 or Nigel on 077977 61499.
