Irvine karate club moves to new dojo which ‘could benefit the whole community’ – Ayrshire Today

Kenshin Shukokai Karate has been operating in the city for nearly a decade, with the not-for-profit club providing training to both children and adults from across the area.

Back in May of this year, owner and head instructor Martin McCall began the process of moving the club to a new home – vacant premises on Eglinton Street.

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While the club was thriving at Towerlands Community Centre, Martin felt that a new dojo would allow the club to continue to grow further.

After months of hard work, the project is now complete – with the official opening of the new premises at the end of last month.

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The 4th Dan admitted that “the building was a mess inside” when he took over – although he is more than happy with how the club’s new home looks now.

After installing new learning elements, lighting, safety equipment, a security system, heating and hot water – Martin believes a space has been created that can benefit all of Irvine.

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It’s also a project that means a lot to the Irvine man, who spent two months dedicated to the renovation, spending £4,000 of his own money.

He said: “We hope this can benefit the community and be somewhere where children, teenagers and adults can meet, exercise and have a good time.

“There is an even reception if anyone wants to come in just for tea or coffee.

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“The whole process was very challenging as I volunteer for Kenshin Shukokai Karate and have my own job.

“However, with the support of my existing members, family and friends, we got there – which I’m very proud of as I can’t think of a karate dojo like this in the area.”

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While the facility will primarily be used as a karate dojo, Martin sees no reason why it can’t be expanded in the future.

He continued: “My long term plans are to attract other martial arts or like minded people to train and build my club for the future for my members.

“My next project is a defibrillator for the club and community and building changing rooms and showers.

“One thing I hope to have is to eventually go from teaching karate part time to full time – then I can put everything I can into the members and the community.”

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Those interested in learning more about the club can do so through the Kenshin Shukokai Karate KS Karate Facebook page.

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