kathy gangemiInducted into the A.M.A.H.O.F.(Inc) for 2015
Junior Development & Support of the Martial Arts

Inducted into the W.K.U.H.O.F. for 2015
Junior Development & Support of the Martial Arts

I started training in 1984 with Sensei Richard Bradford in Goshin Ryu Karate and have participated in specialized seminars with Bill “Superfoot” Wallace, Fumio De Mura, Sensei Tadashi Yamashita, Sifu Chen Chuck Fay and Antonio Oliver, Spanish National coach.

From 1989 to 1992 I was Chief Instructor and coordinator for the Macarthur Adult Education classes. I designed and taught Self Defence classes for women.

Following a move to Tasmania I opened a branch of Les Elliott’s Karate and Kobudo Academy at South Arm. As I had previously practiced Goshin Ryu the change to the Shito Ryu system was challenging, but the club is now in its 10th year and has a loyal group of students. We are proud to have achieved our first Black Belt at the club this year, doubly so because she is my daughter (and Shihan Les’ granddaughter).

I have developed a comprehensive program for children 4 to 8 years old as part of the Honbu Dojo curriculum – Basic Karate, anti bullying using protocols and strategies, discipline, coordination, respect and teamwork.

Our club holds many community fund raising events which I coordinate including Kickathons for the Make a Wish Foundation, Heart Foundation and Breast Screen Tasmania.

  • 3rd Dan in Shito Ryu Karate with the title of Uchi Deshi Sensei.
  • Member of the AMAHOF Event Organizing Committee 2015
  • Event coordinator and fundraising administrator for Les Elliott’s Karate and Kobudo Academy.
  • Level Two comprehensive Karate Instructors Course.
  • Chief Instructor South Arm Dojo – Les Elliott’s Karate and Kobudo Academy
  • Hunter Valley Champion – Kata
  • Australian Open – Kumite Bronze medallist
  • Goshin Ryu 20th Anniversary Championship – Kata Gold Medallist.
  • Western Sydney club competition – Kata Silver medallist & Kumite Bronze medallist