Regional Instructor Christopher Smaby

Sensei Christopher Smaby is a 7th degree black belt registered with the International Traditional Karate Federation. He received his Schichidan ranking from Nishiyama Sensei.

(source:Japan Karate Association of Iowa)

Mr. Smaby has been in the Martial Arts for over 44 years.  He has been formally trained exclusively by Japanese Instructors and is one of the most senior students of world renowned Hitetaka Nishiyama, 9th Dan, JKA International.  Mr. Smaby  is a certified International Instructor and Judge for the AAKF, ITKF, and JKA-US; and National Examiner for the US, AAKF, ITKF, and JKA-US.  He is also trained and qualified to instruct Kyusho-Jitsu/Daito Ryu Jujitsu.

Mr. Smaby received his first formalized training from Sensei Sugiyama in Chicago.  Instruction also included two years with Master Enoeda in England while in the Air Force, and in 1975 Mr. Smaby began his constant training with Master Nishyama.

Mr. Smaby  also received instruction from the following high ranking masters.  Senseis Nakayama, Kanazawa, Shirai, Yamguchi, Kase, Ueki, Oishi, Kawazowe, Iida, Okazaki, Mikami, Obata, Tanaka, Yaguchi, Kato, Asano, Katsumata, Iwakabe, as well as Master Mabuni for Shitoryu style, and Master Seiu Oyata from RyuKyu Kempo Okinawan Karate.  Mr. Smaby is also trained in Judo, Bojitsu, Kendo, Iiado, and Aikido