​Founded in 1961 it was the first karate club of any in York. It has enjoyed a great deal of success under the tutelage of Keith Gullen Shihan, it's Chief Instructor since 1985 and a former National, European and World Champion. Members have formed part of the National Squad and have become World Champions themselves under his guidance. Despite this, it remains a friendly club where beginners are always welcome. We also have a collegiate spirit and we take part in regular social events as a club. We at the York Shotokan Karate Club retain a direct link to the development of karate at the highest level through our close contact with senior Japanese instructors. This helps to ensure that not only are we the oldest karate club in York but we maintain the highest standards of any club in York.