The People of KRMA - Instructor Profiles

Grandmaster Lance Strong, 8th Degree Black Belt (Hanshi)

Lance has been involved in the martial arts for more than 50 years, and has been an instructor for 27 years. He currently teaches classes at the Thames Dojo as well as visiting other KRMA schools to teach both basic and advanced classes, seminars, and weekend camps.

“Lance is a visionary who sees martial arts as a continuous journey toward self improvement. He is a true teacher who is able to guide students to the door of knowledge and inspire them to enter and discover themselves.” Grandmaster Leo Fong

Grandmaster Ava Strong, 7th Degree Black Belt (Kiaido Ryu Masters Board)

Ava is the highest ranked woman in Kiaido Ryu Martial Arts, and also in Dillman Karate International (outside the USA). She has been studying the Martial Arts for over 26 years. In September 1996 Ava was awarded her 6th Degree Black Belt by a panel of Grandmasters in Reading Pennsylvania USA.

For five years Ava worked as a stunt person and stunt double on the well known television shows "Xena" and "Hercules" and also did stunt work on the movie The Last Samurai.

Ava has trained extensively in the USA and Canada in the field of Pressure Points, Jiu Jitsu, and Arnis Stickfighting under some of the worlds leading martial arts experts. In addition to instructing her martial arts classes Ava also teaches Cardio Kickboxing classes.

“Through our comprehensive martial arts training we bring women to the realization that being a woman is no longer a sign of vulnerability; it is a reflection of their inner strength.”

“Our self defence syllabus has a strong focus on removing the victims from society. And as a result of their training, it gives women and girls the real life skills, strategies, and inner strength they need to be able to live their lives unrestricted by fear or limitation.”

Kyoshi Paul Hinton
(Kiaido Ryu Masters Board)
6th Degree Black Belt (Rokudan)
A foundation member of the KRMA Masters Board Paul is a senior instructor for New Zealand. He operated and instructed the Thames and Remuera Dojo for many years, and has been responsible for managing the New Zealand organization. In addition to being a highly ranked martial arts and self defence instructor, Paul also runs his own highly successful home loans business.

Involved in the martial arts since he was a child, Paul has competed and studied in the USA, and has been a Martial Arts Instructor for over 17 years.

Paul comes from a policing background and has worked in the front line in the South Auckland Area, where he also served as a member of the Team Policing Unit.

Paul believes that, "Martial arts training must work in the real world." "Any art must teach real self defence skills for all range and types of combat." "If you don't teach students skills that will work under pressure then you are doing them a disservice." "It's important that our martial art is a vehicle for the student's personal growth, and that the lessons that come from the philosophy of our art help our students to succeed in all areas of their life."

Chief Instructor Australia
Shihan Mark Baxendine
5^th Degree Black Belt.
My life started as a martial artist in 1974, four years in to an amazing decade for martial arts, with people like Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris, Benny Urquidez, MuhammadAli, Leo Fong, Joe Lewis, Bill Wallace, Don Wilson, David Carradine, the Machado Brothers, Jackie Chan, and many more leading the way.
Starting in Judo with my dad, I trained 3 nights a week and have done so ever since; even managing to train on my wedding day much to the dismay of my lovely wife Karen. I have trained and fought in many styles over 40 years but none more complete than Kiaido Ryu, the people make the art. Today, training and living Kiaido Ryu in Australia, I also teach M.M.A and armed and unarmed combat, Fighting is a passion.When you first meet Lance Strong, you discover some people do martial arts, and some are martial artists, he is the latter.

My favorite quotes:

“This is the true joy in life; that being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one; that being a force of nature instead of a feverish, selfish little clod of ailments and grievances, complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy. I am of the opinion that my life belongs to the whole community and as long as I live, it is my privilege to do for it what ever I can. I want to be thoroughly used up when I die. For the harder I work the more I live. I rejoice in life for its own sake. Life is no brief candle to me. It’s a sort of splendid torch which I've got to hold up for the moment and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.” Sir George Bernard Shaw

“We must not cease from exploration. And the end of our exploring will be to arrive where we began and to know the place for the first time,” T.S. Elliot
“You are only ever as good as your last lesson, whether it be as Master to Student or indeed Student to Master.”
“The matrix of all marital arts is Kata, it alone allows you to train in all four worlds at once; physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual.” Shihan Mark Baxedine“
If you are ever in OZ come and train with us”

Renshi Allan Jamieson
4rd Degree Black Belt (Yondan)
Currently living in the Gold Coast in Queensland Australia, Renshi Allan started his training in Kiaido Ryu Martial Arts in 1994 in Thames under the systems founder Hanshi Lance Strong.

Allan excelled in his study taking on a very positive approach to all aspects of his life. He served in the New Zealand Army, based in Waiouru, training as a soldier as well as a chef. Allan left the Army in 1999 and became the senior Instructor at Greerton Dojo in Tauranga. Allan has an exceptional skill level and with his teaching and instructing aims to creates a positive enjoyable environment for his students to train in.

Having completed his studies and qualifications to work in social services Allan continues to be a part of the KRMA senor Instructors team, and teaches at various Dojo and at KRMA camps and seminars.

Renshi Ross Hill-Rennie
4th Degree Black Belt (Yondan)
Operates and instructs at the Coromandel Dojo.
Ross began his Kiaido Ryu training in Tauranga in 1990. After gaining his black belt in 1997 he opened the Cambridge Dojo and also took over running the Hamilton Dojo for a period of time. Ross gained his 3rd degree in 2000. After running the Cambridge dojo for many years he then handed the school over to Sensei Phil Murray. Ross now lives in the Coromandel and in July 2008 attained his 4th Degree black belt.

Ross has a strong interest in the Internal Arts including working with pressure points and meridians; with an emphasis on health and healing. He has trained in Qigong, Reiki Energy Healing, Massage and Sports Therapies. Ross is enthusiastic about working with young people to help build their self-confidence and self-esteem in a safe and dynamic environment.

Sensei Warren Gabb –
3^rd Degree Black Belt (Sandan)
Operates and instructs at the Helensville Dojo, West Auckland.
Warren has been training in Kiaido Ryu Martial Arts for 12 years. He graded to 3rd Degree Black Belt in December 1999. For the last 9 years Warren has been involved in Full Contact Karate Knockdown tournaments and has fought against some of the countries top fighters. Warren is the current NZ and Australian IKO1 Super Heavyweight Champion. In recent years he has competed in the USA, Japan, Russia and Australia. In his own words "This is It's a true test of technique, focus, power and spirit". Warren's Philosophy toward the martial art and life is to always have an open mind and show humility.

Sensei Amanda Tuarau
3^rd Degree Black Belt (Sandan)
Sensei Amanda operates and instructs at the Remuera Dojo in Auckland. Her philosophy is that anyone can participate, achieve and thrive given the positive, family atmosphere that is at the heart of Kiaido Ryu Martial Arts. Her aim is to provide this environment for all students so that they may better themselves in all aspects of their lives.

Starting her martial arts training in 1987, at age 13, Amanda attained her Brown Belt in 1989. She stopped training in 1991 when she went to the USA on a High School student exchange program, and returned to Kiaido Ryu Martial Arts at the end of 1993.

Moving to Auckland in 1994 Amanda recommenced training in the Epsom and Remuera schools. In 1997 she began more teaching, helping Junior students prepare for Black Belt. Amanda attained her 3rd Degree Black Belt and Sensei ranking in 2008, and continues her commitment to the growth and development of her students.

Amanda is also a strong role model for, and advocate of, women training in the martial arts.

Favourite quote. “When women and the martial arts combine the result is empowerment for women.”

Sensei Phil Murray
3rd Degree Black Belt (Sandan)
Phil started training with Kiaido Ryu in 1999 in Cambridge Dojo with Sensei Ross Hill-Rennie. At the start of 2005 he took over the Instructors role at the school, and in 2008 attained his 3^rd Degree Black Belt and Sensei ranking.

“I've always wanted to do martial arts ever since I was a small child.” “It always seemed like a great thing to get involved in; to be able to defend yourself and others.” “It wasn't until I got started that I realized it was so much more than that.” “It's all about family and responsibility and more than just punching and kicking; it teaches self control and is a great builder of sefl esteem.” “The students themselves have to be the biggest motivation for me; watching them grow and develop, especially the juniors, is a very rewarding aspect of teaching.”

“One of the biggest goals I have has to do with my students and developing them as martial artists.” “There is no higher compliment than being able to send someone to a grading and watch them do really well, and to see the smile hidden under all the sweat, when they walk off the floor with their new belt; it is tremendously rewarding.”

“So my goal is to make sure that they smile at the end of the grading and be proud of themselves.” “My second and personal goal is to carry on through the ranks and become the best martial artist that I can be.” “There's always something new to learn no matter what rank you are.” “It's important to me to take every opportunity for growth and learning that is thrown my way.”

Sensei Bradie Eyles
3rd Degree Black Belt (Sandan)
Operates the Dojo in Lancaster, England. Bradie started training in Thames in early 1991. Shortly after receiving his Second Degree Black Belt Bradie moved to England in November 1996. There he set up his own Dojo.

It is Bradie's aim to develop students to the very highest standards and to maintain a positive, friendly training environment.

Since moving to the UK, Bradie has had the opportunity to train with and learn from many world class martial arts experts such as George Dillman, Leon Jay and Peter Consterdine.

Renshi Michael Thompson
4th Degree Black Belt (Yondan)

I started my martial arts journey as a teenager in Country Victoria, moving to Melbourne in the early 90’s. Since that time my martial arts has grown and matured along with me.

I now run the Kiaido Ryu Dojo in Berwick and still enjoy helping students achieve goals that they thought could not be achieved.

For me the study of the martial arts is more than being able to defend oneself, it is a journey of self discovery that makes each of us a better person.

I endeavour to guide students through the journey of the martial arts, helping them rise to the challenges of training and bring those lessons learnt into their own lives.

I am fascinated by Kata and their applications. To me Kata hold the secrets of Karate and I enjoy the challenge of deciphering them and sharing that knowledge.

“I learn something new everyday”
“The only stupid question is the one not asked”
“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”

Sensei Les Scott
3rd Degree Black Belt
Instructor Otumoetai Dojo
Commenced training in 1992 and became a Black Belt in 1999.

“My first Instructor was Franshre Collerie and then Renshi Trevor Hope.” “I currently run Otumoetai Dojo and have done for the past four years.”

“My initial motivation for taking up the martial arts was because my son was involved, but I quickly realized that it was far more than just punching and kicking.” “Now I'm totally committed to my own self development using Kiaido Ryu as a vehicle to achieve this.”

“As an Instructor I really enjoy helping my students, both Juniors and Seniors, to attain their goals, both in the martial arts and in their lives generally.”

“Kata or Forms are the essence of the martial arts, and I believe that understanding and continually practicing them is great both for their self defence applications and also for their health and healing benefits.”

“The study of the martial arts provides a code of conduct, honour, and discipline for people to follow, and any contribution that they can provide for the community at large can only be of benefit.”

Favourite Quote “Whatever you can do or dream you can do begin it; Boldness has genius and magic in it.” Goethe

Dai Sempai Morgan Scott (Nidan)
2nd Degree Black Belt
Pakuranga
Morgan has trained with Kiaido Ryu since the early nineties. After taking time for travel and education, he achieved his second Degree Black Belt and opened the Pakuranga Dojo in 2006. Morgan has also spent several years in the Republic of South Korea. Here, he attained black belts in Tukkong Moosool and Hapkido.

"This experience has shown me how important it is to continue seeking information and making an effort to develop as a martial artist, teacher and person.”

Morgan is a school teacher and aims to create a positive atmosphere for learning in his dojo and his classroom. He has recently accepted a teaching position in Seoul, South Korea and has returned there for the next few years to live, work and train.

Students traveling through Asia are welcome to contact him. morgan@martialarts.co.nz

Dai Sempai Chris Poad
2nd Degree Black Belt (Nidan)
Chris Poad operates and instructs at the Kerikeri Dojo. “I started my training when I was 17 obtaining my black belt in July 1992.” “Then I obtained my second-degree black belt in November 1993.” “My first instructor was David Porter, and later as I advanced in my training I was fortunate to have Kyoshi Kim Larking as an instructor.”

”Before embarking on my 3rd Degree Black Belt, I decided to experience my OE in 1995. After many years of traveling around Europe, Canada, America and South Africa, I returned to New Zealand and moved to Kerikeri in 2004.” “I recently opened the Kerikeri Dojo and look forward to teaching and learning with my students.”

”My philosophy towards my Martial Arts is that you need to create balance in your life on the 4 levels; physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually; only then will you understand yourself and others, and reach your true potential.”

Dai Sempai Barry Riches (Nidan)
2nd Degree Black Belt
Hamilton Dojo
“I started training in March 1998 with Renshi Shane Wiki, as one of only five students.” “Eventually my next instructor Dai Sempai Andrew Wair and I established a new Dojo at the Hamilton YWCA.”

”In 2001 I completed my Shodan grading and had started my own Dojo in Hamilton.” “My confidence grew so much through Martial Arts that I started my own Painting and Decorating business, which became so busy that I had to give up training for a while.”

”I came back to Kiaido Ryu Martial Arts in 2006 and trained in the Cambridge Dojo with Dai Sempai Phil Murray.” “He has been a big inspiration for me to continue my training.” “I've now established my own Dojo in Hamilton at Rukahia Hall and also continue to train at theCambridge Dojo.”

”My renewed motivation has also come from my own children wanting to learn Kiaido Ryu Martial Arts.” “My two daughters and two step sons, plusa great bunch of new students, all give me great inspiration to keep advancing my own knowledge sothat I'm ableto give my students the best training I can.”

”Kiaido Ryu means to me, a better attitude towards life, improved self discipline, improved focus and the direction to make better choices.”

”I am greatly inspired by Hanshi Lance Strong and Kyoshi Ava Strong as role models, as they continue to show me the Kiaido Ryu way.”

”A big thank you to Dai Sempai Phil Murray forencouraging me to achieve my next rank.” “My ambition now is to get the Hamilton Dojo so big I can do it full time.”

Dai Sempai Neil Abbott
Nidan - 2nd Degree Black Belt

Originally from England I had been training in various martial arst on and off and decided to get serious with Kiaido Ryu in 1996.
I've had the privilege to train with a wide range of high ranking instructors including Hanshi Lance Strong, Kyoshi Paul Hinton and John B Will. I currently teach Junior and Senior classes in Hunua, just outside Papkura, Auckland: as I continue to develop my own skills and techniques.
Initially my motivation was purely for fitness and enjoting the physical side of training. But I discovered a love of teaching (particularly junior classes) and being able to give something back just as those before me did. I find that improving my skills and knowledge, and then being able to share that, ia as rewarding as it gets.
I draw inspiration from amny streams; from the skill and commitment of my fellow instructors, training partners and students, who are a contual source of inspiration in my training. Seeing students grow in skill and confidence as they progress gives me a great sense of self satisfaction. This drive is continually cultivated by fellow KRMA members; pushingme to be better for them. To all my coaches and Instructors thank you.
"The standard is not set when it is continually elevated".

Friends are the family we choose for ourselve's and Kiaido Ryu is a superb vehicle for the personal growth of every student. I feel privileged to be part of a system that has strong tradition of respect, discipline and honour, but at the same time is fun and family orientated.
I have many close amd trusted friends who Ihave met through Kiaido Ryu; in one woed family.
I aspire to continually leran and improve and to play my part in the continual evolution of the martial arts; therefore becoming a better book for my students to study from.

Favourite Quote:

"Failure is not the worst thing in the world; the worst thing is not to try."

Sempai Richard Harwood
1st Degree Black Belt (Shodan)
“I've been training with Kiaido Ryu since 2001.” “I currently teach Junior and Senior classes in Bombay twice a week, continue my own training at Hunua Dojo, and also attend as many camps and seminars that I can during the year.”

“I feel that there's a definite need in today's society to help children, and adults alike, to develop them into productive members of their communities.” “I believe that KRMA is an extremely effective system to help achieve this.” “With the promotion of healthy living, fitness and effective self defence it develops personal motivation, confidence, and self discipline that can be applied to all walks of life.” “I believe it also compliments any other sport or activity.”

“I'm ever conscious that people are relying on me for support to improve their own lives.” “So for the reasons above, and knowing my training is advancing my own development, I am determined to do the best I can for them.” “Being able to participate in an art form that includes all age groups is a rarity in many activities and sports.”

“I'm continually inspired by those around me who strive to succeed; those who are trying to change their lives for the better, and those who are humble in their success.”

“My children are both members of Kiaido Ryu and are also a great inspiration for me; as I aim to be for them, so it's a family affair.” “Watching them grow and develop as they achieve each new level has been a wonderful experience.” “They do very well at school, achieving many A's, and winning events in various school sports days.” “I put a lot of their success down to their Kiaido Ryu training and the ‘can do' attitudes that it develops.”

“Kiaido Ryu gives me a strong sense of purpose and belonging.” “I believe everyone strives for respect and to be a great role model.” “My Kiaido Ryu martial arts studies have helped me attain this, and will continue to do so during my life's journey.”
“I have an ambition to develop and grow my KRMA school into a very real and solid resource for my community.” “To do this I actively continue my own martial arts training to increase my skills and knowledge.”

Favourite quote: “Yes you can!”

Dai Sempai Darcy and Sempai Michelle Matthews
2nd degree Black Belt Shodan, Black Belt
”My journey began in 1996 at Katikati Dojo, then continued at Greeton Dojo under the teachings of Craig and Brinley Hunwick, Chris Waitare, and Renshi Allan Jamieson where I reached Brown Belt in 1998.” “After returning from overseas in 2005 my journey started again, back at Katikati dojo, guided by Dai Sempai Craig Mclean and Sempai Michelle Mita, where the hard yards needed to be done.” “I've been fortunate enough to have attended various classes at Greeton, Otumoetai, Omokoroa, Cambridge, and Thames, and have also attended high rank classes, seminars, and camps, meeting fellow warriors on their path. “I graded to Shodan in Dec 2006.”

”A big motivation for me is family; all family's are important it's who we are, and it's something that we need to protect.” “Getting balance and harmony in all aspects of our lives is something that we come to learn through our training.” “When we come to understand the martial way it makes for a truly happy and fulfilled life.” “And walking the warrior's path to self discovery is something that we can teach our families, and they can hand down to their families.”

”I feel very inspired by Grandmaster Hanshi Lance Strong, Kyoshi Ava Strong, Kyoshi Paul Hinton, and the Kiaido Ryu Masters Board.” They are positive, strong people making a difference to so many people's lives, and helping society as well; guiding people in a direction that helps them find themselves.” “They are Guardians and Protectors, people who give from the heart and enjoy doing so.”

”Kiaido Ryu has such a family feel to it that no matter where you train you always feel comfortable; no matter which dojo you walk into you know that you are respected as a person, and part of the warriors family.” “Student's backgrounds may be very different but we all share a common goal to help others on their journey to self discovery.” “Kiaido Ryu holds a lot of traditional aspects of the martial arts like, honour, respect, and discipline, plus a very modern syllabus is why I feel so strongly about the system Mana that should be recognised.” “I have met people through Kiaido Ryu who have become very good friends and in one word (RYU) family.”

”My aim is to become a (Sensei) teacher of great depth and knowledge, and pass on to as many people as I can the ‘Way of the Warrior,' and watch them grow as martial artists; to be people that transform themselves into warriors and help make a difference to as many people as they can.”

Favourite Quote "Our beliefs can blind us from seeing and being all that we truly can be." ( Hanshi Lance Strong)

Sempai Rose Dermer
Black Belt
“I've been training with Kiaido Ryu Martial Arts since 2005.” “My first instructor, Dai Sempai Les Scott, introduced me to a love of Martial Arts.” “Also early in my training I had an opportunity to train with Hanshi Lance Strong, Kyoshi Ava, Dai Sempai Shane, Dai Sempai Sam, Dai Sempai Morgan, Dai Sempai Amanda, Dai Sempai Mike, and Sempai Barry Murray.”

“I currently teach junior and senior classes in Kaitaia Dojo as I continue to improve my own skills.”

“Initially my motivation was purely for fitness, self defence, and to gain self confidence.” “But I have now grown to enjoy teaching classes and developing my ability.” “I find that improving my skills and knowledge and being able to share it is both a challenge and a big motivation for me in my training.”

“Training with my instructors and training partners is a continual source of inspiration in my training.” “Seeing junior and senior students grow in skills and confidence as they progress in KRMA gives me a great self satisfaction.”

“Kiaido Ryu Martial Arts means ‘Family.'” “I feel both pride and great joy to be part of a system that has a strong tradition of respect, discipline and honor, along with its friendly and fun loving atmosphere.” “I have gained many friends through all my years of training.”

“I aspire to continually learn and improve my skills and knowledge of training, and become a better resource for my students.” “My next major goal is to attain my 1st Degree Black Belt in the very near future and to open more Dojo and classes in Far North of New Zealand.”

Dai Sempai Dean Message
2nd Degree Black Belt

My story begins in a little town called Ngatea. I was 14yrs old and potentially destined for a life of crime and trouble. A friend introduced me to a Kiaido Ryu class where I met the man who would take me under his wing and change my life forever; Kyoshi Dale Speedy.

When I began my time training with Kyoshi Dale I was unaware that my thoughts on life were so negative, until I was asked to talk with a group of people who would also become massive influences in my life; Hanshi Lance Strong, Kyoshi Ava Strong, Kyoshi Paul Hinton, Kyoshi Keith and Kyoshi Dale Speedy. What an honor this was; they were asking me how I was, and that they wanted to help me in any way that they could.

So this is Kiaido Ryu for me, in my instructors, I have found compassion, love, friendship, loyalty, trust, and most of all, real guidance in an uncertain world where the odds are sometimes stacked against you. On a personal level Kiaido Ryu for me means hope.

Over the years I’ve had the privilege of learning from some of the most amazing people:
Kyoshi Dale Speedy from Ngatea, Hanshi Lance and Kyoshi Ava Strong from Thames,
Kyoshi Paul Hinton from Thames and Paeroa. (who was my inspiration to take up my favorite weapon, the Bo (staff). If you get to see him in action with this weapon, you’re in for a treat).
Dai Sempai Kerry from Thames was also one of my inspirational instructors.

I’m currently training under Dai Sempai Barry Riches from Hamilton. He’s been a key figure in my pursuit for my 2nd Degree Black Belt, and has a lot of knowledge to help me get there.

I’m now starting my own Dojo in a little friendly town called Raglan; who would have guessed?" I aim to bring the same influences that I gained from the people of Kiaido Ryu, to every student I encounter, in the hope that they too can see the world as their oyster, without barriers and limitations, and build the confidence and self respect to live their very best lives, and to share in a Martial art, that brings so much more to the table than to just be able to defend yourself.

"It is the way of the Warrior"

Kiaido Ryu founder Grandmaster Hanshi Lance Strong,

Sempai Daniel Jolly

My Kiaido Ryu journey began in July 2000 when I was 12 years old. I had moved here from England and my Uncle, Dai Sempai Neil Abbott took me along to a grading, and I was hooked instantly.
First I trained under Kyoshi Paul Hinton, at the Remuera Dojo, where I achieved my Yellow Belt. Within a few months however, Dai Sempai Neil opened the Hunua/Papakura Dojo so I started training there.
Watching my Uncle take the classes, and watching the club grow, is what initially inspired me to want to open my own Dojo one day. I can remember, even as a young Green Belt, helping to teach other students. I enjoy learning new Kata and techniques, but I can't explain the enjoyment I get from passing what I know onto other people: Juniors and Seniors alike.

Due to life getting in the way, I had to stop training shortly after achieving my Brown Belt in 2004. I was able to start training again in 2008: this time under Sensei Phil Murray at the Cambridge Dojo.
Training under Sensei Phil and Dai Sempai Barry Riches reignited something that was missing inside me: and helping out with the Juniors brought back my love of teaching.

My aim is to continue my own Martial Arts journey and progress through the ranks as much as I can, while constantly passing my knowledge onto others.

"Don't regret making mistakes. Regret not learning from them"

Dai Sempai Hamish Williams