Trainers: Karate

Kyoshi Kane Freemantle

Introduction:

Kyoshi Kane Freemantle is a highly respected martial arts instructor and one of the founding members of the renowned Four Dragons Martial Arts association. With an extensive background in various martial arts styles, Kyoshi Kane brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his teaching.

As the head instructor of Four Dragons, Kyoshi Kane is responsible for overseeing the training and development of students in the dojo. He is known for his ability to strike an excellent balance between fun and variety, while maintaining a strong emphasis on tradition and respect within the martial arts community.

With over 25 years of training in martial arts, Kyoshi Kane has dedicated a significant portion of his life to honing his skills and mastering different styles. His training journey has encompassed various disciplines such as Go-Kan-Ryu, Zen Do Kai, BJC Muay Thai, Green Gloves Boxing Club, and his current focus, Zennin Martial Arts.

Beyond his role as an instructor, Kyoshi Kane is also a founding member of Four Dragons in Upper Hutt and Zennin Martial Arts. His dedication and leadership have contributed to the growth and success of these organizations. Additionally, he serves as a representative within the Zennin Martial Arts NZ committee, where he actively participates in decision-making processes and contributes to the development of martial arts in New Zealand.

Kyoshi Kane Freemantle is highly regarded for his commitment to martial arts and his ability to inspire and guide his students. Through his vast experience, he strives to instill valuable life skills, discipline, and self-confidence in his students, empowering them both in & out of the dojo. Whether teaching beginners or advanced students, Kyoshi Kane’s dedication to the martial arts community is evident in his approach and the positive impact he has on his students’ lives.

Other Interests

Spending time with my family of 6, working out at the gym, playing golf, watching rugby “well actually most sports”, socializing with family & friends, nutrition & anything that involves physical fitness in general.

Training Strengths

Kyoshi Kane has a strong reputation as a Kata “Form” specialist within the Four Dragons martial arts ranks. This has led to several junior & senior national champions over the last 25 years. Another major strength of Zennin martial arts through “Four Dragons dojo” is the ability to provide its students with a real opportunity to apply modern principals with traditional martial arts values.

How did you get into Martial Arts training?

I’d always been interested in martial arts as a young boy, but I never had the opportunity to train until I was in my early twenties. I first started Go-Kan-Ryu in 1996 but ended up converting over to Zen Do Kai in 1998 after Sensei Andrew Gibson an old employer of mine suggested that I check out the local Upper Hutt club… Well, it’s 28 years later & I’m still training in Upper Hutt & a founding member of Four Dragons Dojo & Zennin martial arts, with over 100 students.

Any advice for new students or anyone interested in joining?

Don’t wait until everything is just right. It will never be perfect. There will always be challenges, obstacles & less than perfect conditions. So, what. GET STARTED NOW. With each step you take, you will grow stronger & stronger, more & more skilled, more & more self-confident & more & more successful – Mark Victor Hanen

Teaching Philosophy:

“When you see a worthy person endeavor to emulate them – when you see, and unworthy person then examine your inner self.”

Renshi Quiz

Introduction:

Renshi Quiz is a highly accomplished martial artist and a dedicated instructor at 4 Dragons Dojo. With a martial arts journey spanning over several years, Quiz has honed his skills and knowledge to become a respected figure in the martial arts community.

Quiz’s journey began in 2006 when he joined 4 Dragons Dojo. His commitment and dedication to his training quickly became evident, as he achieved his Blue Belt at the National grading and was awarded a Gold Medal, showcasing his exceptional skills and determination. From that point on, Quiz consistently displayed remarkable performance, receiving Gold Medals in all subsequent gradings leading up to his Black Belt in 2009.

In 2010, Quiz embarked on a significant milestone in his martial arts career by traveling to Melbourne to grade for his 1st Dan Black Belt. He exceeded expectations during the grading, representing 4 Dragons Dojo with unwavering dedication and maintaining the high standards he sets for himself.

Currently holding the rank of 4th Dan Black Belt in Zennin martial arts and 1st Dan in Zennin Thai Kickboxing, Quiz possesses a wealth of knowledge and expertise in these disciplines. As the senior instructor of the little dragons and junior karate classes, he assumes a leadership role in guiding and mentoring young martial artists.

What truly sets Quiz apart is his exceptional attitude and commitment to traditional values. He consistently strives for excellence in both him and his students. Quiz finds joy in assisting others in achieving their goals, helping them grow stronger in confidence and skills. His passion for martial arts is contagious, inspiring those around him to push their boundaries and reach their full potential.

In summary, Renshi Quiz is an outstanding martial artist and instructor, with a rich history of achievements and a strong commitment to traditional martial arts values. His dedication, knowledge, and excellent attitude make him an invaluable asset to 4 Dragons Dojo, and he continues to inspire and empower his students to excel in their martial arts journey.

Other Interests

Family, Surfing, Cycling, Golf, the Outdoors, pretty much anything that keeps me active.

Training Strengths

Renshi Quiz leads by example, he gets stuck in and gives 100% to everything he does. He sets high standards for himself, which cascades down to fellow students.

How did you get into Martial Arts training?

I have always been interested in Martial Arts since childhood but to whatever reason, never actually got around to joining. It wasn’t until I had children that I thought that it would be a good sport for kids to be involved in, so in 2006 I joined 4 Dragons dojo with my daughter who is also a 2nd Dan, my son has since joined and is currently a Black Belt.

Any advice for new students or anyone interested in joining?

It takes courage to act upon thoughts of new a venture and learning journey. Walking through the Dojo door for the first time is a challenge. Returning the second time, is the beginning of that journey.

Teaching Philosophy: The Dojo is an environment away from the world outside, where students can discover so much about themselves. I encourage my students to challenge themselves to set and reach their own personal goals, to grow in confidence, and build relationships with peers of equal mindsets in a safe space. 

Dai Sempai Stephen Garwood

Introduction:

Dai Sempai Stephen Garwood, a highly skilled and experienced martial arts instructor with over 20 years of training in both He Toa and 4 Dragons clubs. With a diverse background in various training styles, including He Toa Muay Thai, Zen Do Kai, BJC Muay Thai, and currently Zennin Martial Arts, Steven brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role as an assistant instructor.

Other Interests

Spending time with family, speedway, outdoors, camping, cooking and being active.

Training Strengths

One of Stephen’s notable training strengths lies in his Muay Thai pad holding skills.

Through his precise and effective pad holding techniques, he can provide invaluable support to students during their training sessions. Whether it’s guiding them through striking combinations or helping them refine their techniques, in sparring or grappling, Stephen’s students receive optimal training and development.

How did you get into Martial Arts training?

During the early 2000’s a workmate got me to tag along with them in a Muay Thai class. I enjoyed my time and continued to train at the He Toa club in Petone under Martin Stirling & Dean Stirling who now runs it. At one time, I had stopped for a couple years then found a flyer for 4Dragons Martial Arts in my letterbox, which made me decide to go along and I haven’t left since then. Occasionally stopping by He Toa as a casual to train. I had got my son involved in karate two or three years later under Zen Do Kai and now under Zennin Martial Arts since the clubs change in style.

Any advice for new students or anyone interested in joining?

Don’t wait until you think you’re ready, as that time will never come. You will never be ready for what’s approaching, just get into it and do it. As it is a lifetime process building confidence and skills, you will always be learning.

Teaching Philosophy:

“I prioritize students individual needs, fostering an environment where they take responsibility for their own learning journey”.

Dai Sempai Grahame Cobbum

Introduction:

Dai Sempai Grahame is a dedicated martial artist who has been training with the 4Dragons Dojo in the Zennin system since 2016.

With a passion for martial arts, Grahame has honed his skills in various disciplines such as Wado Ryu karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), and escrima.

Having recently achieved his 2nd degree black belt in Zennin karate, Grahame has proven his commitment and perseverance in his martial arts journey. As a dedicated student, he actively assists the instructors in various capacities, lending a helping hand in both the adult and children’s classes. Grahame’s willingness to contribute to the dojo showcases his strong sense of community and his desire to give back to the martial arts community that has shaped him.

Beyond the physical aspects of martial arts, Grahame recognizes and values the mental and character-building benefits that come with the practice. He embraces the discipline, confidence, and self-control fostered through martial arts training. Grahame understands that these attributes are essential not only in the dojo but also in everyday life, and he strives to instill these qualities in his students.

Other Interests

Spending time with my family, travel, tramping, reading, and listening to music.

Training Strengths

One of Grahame’s notable strengths lies in his diverse training background. With experience in multiple martial arts styles, he brings a unique perspective to the training environment. This breadth of knowledge allows him to adapt and incorporate different techniques and principles into his teaching approach, providing students with a well-rounded martial arts education.

Grahame’s enthusiasm for martial arts is evident in his training style. He actively participates in training sessions, leading by example, and motivating others to push themselves beyond their limits. His dedication to personal growth and self-improvement serves as an inspiration to his fellow students, encouraging them to strive for excellence and become the best versions of themselves.

How did you get into Martial Arts training?

While at university in 1992, I joined the Wado Ryu karate club with a friend. I’d always had a fascination with karate after watching Jean Claude van Damme films in my youth. I trained on and off for about 8 years but had to stop when my wife and I emigrated to NZ. It wasn’t until 15 years later that I joined my son for his first karate class at 4 Dragons. 

Any advice for new students or anyone interested in joining?

Don’t put it off or let anything stop you. You are never too young, too old, or not fit enough. Walking through the door and bowing in is your only obstacle, by far the hardest step.

Dai Sempai Troy Harris

Introduction:

Troy has been training with 4Dragons for 15 years, starting with Zen Do Kai.

Troy enjoys helping others to develop a foundation of the basics, and watching people advance to more interesting applications.

Troy hopes others will find the benefits that training can bring to their life such as health, wellbeing and community.

Other Interests

Spending time with the family, Golf, NFL and NBA, Board games, Hunting and anything outdoors

Training Strengths

Troy willingly puts himself in the line of action to help senior instructors demonstrate and teach self-defense techniques. He understands the value of hands-on experience and is eager to contribute to the learning process of others.

Troy excels in practical self-defense techniques that are highly effective in real-life situations.

He understands the importance of training techniques that work in the real world, rather than relying solely on flashy or impractical moves. His strength, endurance, and agility provide a solid foundation for his training.

How did you get into Martial Arts training?

I have always had a passion for martial arts, admiring the likes of Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan. I started my martial arts journey in Judo in my early teens, before giving it up due to time commitments. In 2007 I saw an ad for 4Dragons in the local newspaper and went along to check it out. I enjoyed the training style and the people and haven’t looked back since

Any advice for new students or anyone interested in joining?

Don’t expect to get right on the first time, the movements will feel weird, you may look silly, but with time and practice, it will fall into place and become second nature.

Teaching Philosophy:

Martial arts is like a mountain. You see the top. And you hike and you climb, and you finally reach the peak, and you realize it was a false summit, and in front of you lies an entire new mountain range – Robert Owens

Troy willingly puts himself in the line of action to help senior instructors demonstrate and teach self-defense techniques. He understands the value of hands-on experience and is eager to contribute to the learning process of others.