Black Dragon School of Kinjite Karate

It takes dedication, discipline, perseverance and hard work to achieve your black belt. Each Dan grade then asks more of you, requiring continuous improvement.

There is now a physical register (traditional nafudakake) of current and historical Kinjite 1st Kyu and Dan grade students, with more to be added as historical records are collated.

Respect and honour to those who are on, or have been on, the journey. Gemma Newman / Leo Farmershee / Gemma Driver / Bobbie Dutton / Ami Beesley / Jessie Comerford / Gary Mcclenaghan

Sensei Ryan

BDK Kinjite Ryu has completed their 4th Year of supporting the Dean Close Senior School (Y7) Development / Real-World Skills Programme.

We've taught over 400+ students simple, accessible and practical skills to keep them more aware of danger and how to react in self-defence situations.

We also continue to be one of the most highly rated activities by students - also gaining very positive feedback from the supervising teachers (who have also learnt some new skills!)

To support your own school development programme or organise self-defence sessions, please contact Sensei Ryan.

BDK Kinjite Ryu Karate is running three classes - 2 in Malvern and 1 in Cheltenham.

Karate is an ideal method to devleop self-confidence, mental and physical mastery and perseverance. Martial arts are a deeply personal journey and we're here to help your realise your goals and bring out your potential.

Please contact Sensei Ryan for further details.

Our head and founder, Alexander 'Mac' Gilmour has passed away on the 21st January 2026.

Those who have had the pleasure to know him will understand how impactful he has been in teaching, training and mentoring so many people through his passion and love of martial arts over the 60+ years.

We have attempted to call and contact as many people as possible before posting this - for those who may be finding out via this post, we understand this may be shocking. For those who know Mac's wife and family, please be mindful of their grieving when offering condolences and support.

I've known Mac for over half of my life. He was my friend and no words can describe the hole that has now appeared. I can't even begin to imagine how others may be feeling who have known or trained with him far longer.

Our thoughts and support to all those who are affected by this loss.

Sensei Ryan.

Dean Close Personal Development Session Success (2022-2023)

Last year in August of 2022, Sensei Ryan Renard was approached to teach Self-Defence to new starters at Dean Close School, supporting their Personal Development programme.

We are pleased to say the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive with 95% of the pupils who were present for the sessions ranking it as either 4/5 or 5/5 for enjoyment and Self-Defense being rated as the 2nd most valuable session just behind First Aid.

BDK wishes all of the students well in their ongoing studies and look forward to supporting the programme next year.

Thankyou to all our students for thier dedication and hard work over the years. 🥋🥋

We are now inviting new students to begin your mastery of body and mind in Kinjite Ryu
🥋🌟👊

Feel free to enquire below or through the contact info provided for more information.

Wado Ryu and Kinjite Ryu Seminar - 17th July

Self-Defense seminar using Wado and Kinjite Ryu techniques at Castlemorton Parish Hall, Church Road, Castlemorton, Malvern, WR13 6BE.

Call 07917 685805 or 07554526002 for more details.

All ages welcome, including non-martial artists.

Enquire below for spaces and availability to begin your mastery of body and mind in Kinjite Ryu.

Congratulations to Gemma Newman on successfully achieving her Black Belt. A significant milestone in your training - now the work really begins!

A thoroughly enjoyable opening night. We are still enrolling new students so there is still an opportunity to join.

Please be quick and call or message for details and / or to confirm a place. Membership will be limited to 10 people. At the time of this post, there are places available.

We look forward to seeing you.