GKR Stories – Allan Redpath

Allan Redpath, Australia

Determined to change the direction of his life, Allan started karate at the age of 17 and hasn’t looked back, in this week’s GKR Stories Allan shares some of his proudest moments.

I started karate at the age of 17, determined to change the trajectory of my life. Twenty years later, I am still training and proud of how far I have come, my achievements and the fact that I have indeed changed my life for the better.

Training with GKR keeps me centered and I never feel the need to prove myself. When I am out with family and people’s emotions start to get heated, I am able to take the heat out of the situation with words over physicality. I still remember being told, you should always try and talk your way out of a situation and I have not had to use the physical aspect of karate for self-defense since starting with GKR in 2004.

I have suffered setbacks due to injury but have always come back stronger. I have competed on the tournament circuit, winning a World Title in 2009 for Kata as well as State Titles too. I now assist with tournament team training and love watching students develop and grow. I enjoy being able to mentor students and hopefully inspire them like Renshi Jan Lopez did for me in the early years in Western Australia.

In 2023, one of my students wanted to nominate me for the inaugural ‘Rockingham Indigenous Sports Star Award.’ I was hesitant at first but eventually agreed to being nominated. I won the award, much to the delight of the student who nominated me and was honoured to be presented the Rockingham Indigenous Sports Star Award for 2023.

As a proud indigenous man, I want others to know that there is always a way to change the direction of your life. Any sport or social activity can help you become more centered and teach you valuable life skills, just as karate has done for me.

We want to hear your story

We’re inviting members to reach out to us and share how joining GKR Karate has been instrumental in crafting their personal tales of inspiration, transformation, or courage.

If you wish to share your story or that of a friend or family member, please click here.

Why GKR Karate?

GKR creates the right environment for our members to train in. Although we promote self defence and fitness, our style also fosters positive values, confidence, discipline, focus and well being. GKR teaches you not only how to punch and kick, it teaches you to be a better person.

We encourage students of all ages, from all walks of life to join our club and be part of the supportive ‘family’ that is GKR Karate.

Self Defence

Synonymous with martial arts, self defence and inner self confidence are one of the key takeaways from regular training. From the age of 5 GKR teaches basic self defence and extraction moves, continuing right through to our senior grades.
Weight Loss

Karate is a great way to lose or maintain a healthy weight, with most classes consisting of aerobic, stretching and toning activities. For those who may not have exercised in some time, GKR provides a supportive environment where students can train at their own pace and physical ability. Our classes are a mixture of men, women and children of all ages.
Focus

Many parents are keen to see their children develop greater focus and discipline through their martial arts training, and GKR’s classes provide the perfect environment. Instructors teach in a respectful and supportive atmosphere through karate inspired games, activities and drills.

Family

GKR promotes a family environment, encouraging kids, parents and relatives to all train in the same class. Staying a few karate grades behind your children, will encourage them to continue a regular training program.
Respect

As a traditional Japanese martial arts, karate promotes respect to our instructors, our club, each other and most importantly ourselves. This is a key part of your learnings as a student of GKR karate.
Friendships

Although karate is considered a solo sport, it is still the foundation for many life long friendships. Classes include games and partner work where children and adults alike take the opportunity to learn about and bond with their fellow class mates.

Have a question or require further information? Contact us today.

About GKR

GKR Stories – Allan Redpath

Allan Redpath, Australia

Determined to change the direction of his life, Allan started karate at the age of 17 and hasn’t looked back, in this week’s GKR Stories Allan shares some of his proudest moments.

We want to hear your story

Why GKR Karate?

Membership Enquiry