Don Smeltzer

 

5th Dan, Beikoku Shidokan Karatedo Association 

Background

Started and Shidokan Karate in Guelph in 2001.  
Joined Grand River Karate in 2022 after Shidokan Guelph closed.

 

Occupation

Senior Lab Tech for a lead recycler.
 

Why I Started

I’ve always been interested in martial arts, first trying judo as a child, then training in tae kwon do for a few years in my 20s. I had to give it up due to family responsibilities and costs. I always planned to get back into it and joined the Guelph dojo. Martial arts has really helped me with self-confidence and keeping active.  
 

Why I like Shidokan

What I really like about this style is that it’s all natural body movement, unlike other styles. I hope to keep training for as long as my health will let me. Whenever I’ve gone to other Shidokan dojos, I’ve always been made to feel welcome, like we are all one big family. 

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Other Interests

I like fixing things, fishing and riding my motorcycle.