1970s: Robert Sidoli begins training under Shihan Hidetada Narumi, establishing a lifelong bond. For various reasons Robert was unable to train with Narumi Sensei for a yime, but communication continued.
Makoto Gima’s apprentices—Hidetada Narumi, Ikuo Higuchi, and Mitsunori Kobayashi—continue to preserve and transmit his teachings.
Expansion in the UK
2000s: Like‑minded Karate‑Ka in the UK gather under senior instructors graded 4th Dan and above, forming a dedicated group committed to open‑minded practice and unity beyond politics.
Formal Reinduction in Nagaoka
2010: The UK Branch is officially inducted into the Gima‑Ha group in Nagaoka, Japan.
Steven Edwards: Present in the centre back row, later appointed Chief Instructor for GIKF England.
Robert Sidoli: Seated in Seiza, front row, second from the left, alongside his childhood instructor Shihan Narumi.
Narumi, Higuchi, Kobayashi: The three senior apprentices of Makoto Gima, actively teaching and safeguarding his legacy.
U.K. Leadership Today
Steven Edwards leads as Chief Instructor for GIKF England.
Robert Sidoli leads as Shibu-Cho and Director in Chief; continues to honour his lineage through teaching and organizational guidance.
The UK Branch remains open to like‑minded Karate‑Ka, embracing shared learning and respect.
Legacy Preserved
The bond between past and present is embodied in the apprentices of Makoto Gima and their students worldwide.
The UK Branch stands as part of this living tradition, committed to carrying forward the spirit of Karate with openness, respect, and unity.
