Bermudian martial arts students kicked off the summer by representing the island at a karate gala in Canada.

Now teacher Bobby Smith, who was invited to be a guest instructor at the 29th Miyagi Chojun Festival in Burlington, Ontario, has found his skills in demand and has been asked to take part in a seminar in New York City next year.

He said: “It seems that I’ve now become internationally recognised for my efforts.”

The gashuku — or gathering — in Canada was hosted by the International Okinawan Goju-ryu Karate Federation’s world chief instructor, Sensei Tetsuji Nakamura.

Mr Nakamura, ranked as a seventh dan out of the ten levels of proficiency, was joined by the IOGKF’s chief adviser, Sensei Bakkies Laubscher, a ninth dan.

Mr Smith was a guest instructor throughout the four-day event.

He said: “I dedicate myself to the promotion of alternatives to physical violence and to teach others how to use restraint and control tactics.”

Adult students Carlos Ferreira, Lester Pun and Gavin Bishop accompanied him, along with juniors Zachary Bishop and Stella Cupidore.

Mr Smith’s Academy of Martial Arts holds classes twice a week and offers traditional karate and self defence to adults and children, as well as “exotic” weaponry such as the Japanese sword, staff and cane.

The Academy of Martial Arts has classes twice a week. For more information, see www.tamadojo.com or call Mr Smith on 292-5715.