Tadashi Narita

Narita Sensei started his Yoshinkan Aikido under Andy Hobday sensei in 2006. Although there was an initial hesitation to learn Japanese martial art in UK, with a great guidance and teaching from Andy Hobday sensei, his doubts quickly disappeared.

Having previous martial art experience like Karate and Kendo, during his teen years, it didn’t take Narita sensei long to start taking Aikido seriously.

He traveled extensively to train in Japan, Europe and Australia. He has trained in Hombu dojo under Inoue hanshi, Chida shihan, Ando shihan, Jaque Payet shihan, Robert Mustard sensei, and many other Yoshinkan practitioners.

But his main influence has come from Joe Thambu shihan from Aikido Shudokan in Australia.

Narita sensei was tested to Shodan in 2009 under Joe Thambu shihan, and the following year, he decided to become his unchideshi for 5 months to further his learning. During this time, he participated in Aikido Shudokan’s 30th Anniversary demonstration, and won the Jiyuwaza competition. In 2011 he went again to Australia for a month and he was tested and awarded the 2nd dan in Aikido, and also attended the Aikido Shudokan’s 31st Anniversary demonstration as a “Guest Instructor”

Following his return from Australia, he made the decision to dedicate himself full time to Aikido and took over the Shoshinkan from the founder Andy Hobday sensei. He is currently a full time student of Aikido and also the chief instructor of the club teaching most of the adult and junior classes.

He strongly believes in the motto (Sho shin : Beginners Mind) of the club set by the founder Andy Hobday sensei, and strives to maintain these values.