Gary Grapentin this year celebrates 21 years as Head Instructor of East Cape Shotokan-Ryu (ECSR).
Gary Grapentin this year celebrates 21 years as Head Instructor of East Cape Shotokan-Ryu (ECSR).
ECSR has its origins in Port Alfred, and was formerly known as Kowie Martial Arts, which was established by then Port Alfred High School teacher, Johan Zweistra in 1992.
In 1995 Gary Grapentin assumed the duties of Head Instructor and, during that year, the dojo changed over to the Shotokan style of karate.
Today, ECSR has grown to become one of the leading karate schools in the Eastern Cape and includes dojos in Port Alfred, Kenton on Sea, Grahamstown, Fort Beaufort and at Rhodes University.
From a development perspective, ECSR also oversees the successful Alicedale Karate Project and has strong links to the Joza Karate Club in Grahamstown.
Over the years ECSR has seen hundreds of Kowie and Albany residents pass through its doors, including a number who have gone on to achieve various levels of black belt. ECSR has also produced a number of provincial and national champions in various age categories.
For further information about karate in Grahamstown and Port Alfred, Gary Grapentin may be contacted on 073 346 0059 or at garg@geenet.co.za.
See the full story in Friday’s edition of Grocott’s Mail
