Club History
The club was founded in 1979 by Sensei Paul Preece then a 4th dan. He began aikido in Birmingham aged 22 under Ralph Reynolds instruction. Before starting aikido, Sensei Preece had practised both judo and karate for many years. Our club has a direct link with the first aikido practised in the UK. In 1956 Kenshiro Abbe was sent by Morihei Ueshiba to teach aikido to a judo club in London. Amongst the first group to eventually receive their black belts was Ralph Reynolds, who returned to Birmingham to spread aikido. Graiseley aikido club prides itself on its success over the years. Many students have achieved black belt status, and such is the friendly atmosphere that these high-grade students tend to stay. |