About us

The GOWA RYU, which translated means “Five Ring System”, is located in Ashford, Kent. This martial arts school was founded by Jim Dempster, sandan in 2004.

Gowaryu Aikido is part of the Aikido Development Society. As a member of this association, the club enjoys a great wealth of knowledge and experience dating back over 50 years and regular seminars are held throughout England where the clubs can get together and share their experience of Aikido.

The style of Aikido taught is principly ‘Tomiki’, though Traditional and Yoshinkan styles are also explored during the training sessions. We have a fairly diverse level of ability ranging from beginner to Dan level. Everybody is welcome to join regardless of age, gender or fitness level.

All of the coaches are Nationally Qualified to teach Aikido and hold public liability insurance.

Training Time:

Every Fridays
6:30pm – 8:30pm

Fee: £5.00
(The first session is free)

The dojo is at the Mersham Village Hall, The Forstal, Ashford TN25 6NU

Coaches

Jim Dempster
Jim Dempster, Sandan (3rd Dan)
Senior coach and club founder
BAB Coach Level 2

Tom Davey
Tom Davey, Sandan (3rd Dan)
BAB Coach Level 1

Christophe Courtin
Christophe Courtin, Nidan (2nd Dan)
BAB Coach Level 1

Eoin Kerrigan
Eoin Kerrigan, Nidan (2nd Dan)
BAB Coach Level 1

Trevor Orman
Trevor Orman, Nidan (2nd Dan)
BAB Coach Level 1