Meet Our Instructors
At GKA Leeds Karate, our instructors are highly trained professionals committed to fostering a supportive and motivating environment. Their passion for martial arts and dedication to student development ensure that every member achieves their personal best.
Remi Jurgilaitis
Train with One of Europe’s Top Karate Competitors
Reach Your Full Potential with GKA Leeds Karate
Sensei Remi Jurgilaitis began his martial arts journey in 1999 at a small dojo in his hometown in Lithuania. What started as a childhood interest quickly evolved into a lifelong pursuit of excellence—and today, he stands among Europe’s most accomplished karate competitors.
A certified 3rd Dan black belt under the prestigious Japan Karate Shotorenmei (JKS) England grading panel, Remi earned his 1st Dan in 2010, followed by his 2nd in 2019 and his 3rd Dan in 2022. Each milestone reflects a deep commitment to the art, tradition, and discipline of Shotokan karate.
In 2021, his elite skills earned him a place representing Lithuania at the Olympic qualification tournament in Paris, a testament to his international reputation and competitive pedigree.
Looking for Karate Near Leeds? Learn from a Champion.
At GKA Leeds Karate, students train under a coach who has not only mastered the technical foundations of traditional karate but also competed—and won—on the world stage.
Whether you're just starting out, aiming for your next grading, or preparing for competition, you'll benefit from Remi’s deep knowledge, dynamic style, and proven track record of helping students grow in skill and confidence.
Achievements
🏆 2024 British Champion (-84kg & -75kg)
🏆 2024 English Champion (-84kg)
🥋 2024 JKS World Championship – Silver Medal (Team)
🥉 2023 SKDUN World Championships – Bronze Medalist
🥇 2021 Lithuanian National Champion (-75kg)
🥇 2020 Lithuanian National Champion (-75kg)
🥈 2019 JKS World Vice-Champion (-75kg)
🥇 2019 Baltic States Champion (Open Weight)
🥇 2019 Lithuanian National Champion (-75kg)
🥇 2013 Funakoshi World Champion
🥇 2012 WKC World Champion
With deep roots in traditional karate and a fighting style honed through international tournaments, Remi brings world-class instruction to every class—blending discipline, passion, and competitive strategy.
Meet Eilidh Owens – Instructor at GKA Leeds Karate
Train with One of Europe’s Top Karate Competitors
JKS 2nd Dan Black Belt | National & International Champion
Eilidh Owens is a rising star in the UK karate scene and an integral part of the instructional team at GKA Leeds Karate. With a 2nd Dan black belt certified by the Japan Karate Shotorenmei (JKS), Eilidh combines technical excellence with competitive success on both national and international stages.
Eilidh’s Achievements:
🥋 JKS National Cadet Grand Champion
🏆 Current English Champion – Team Kata
🏆 Current British Champion – Team Kata
🏆 Current Commonwealth Club Champion – Team Kata
🥈 Silver Medalist – 2024 JKS World Championships, Japan
Student Feedback
The instructors are incredibly supportive and knowledgeable.
"The teaching methods are engaging and effective!"
"My child has grown in confidence thanks to the instructors."
"The instructors truly care about each student’s progress."
Meet Our Dedicated Instructors
Join us for a class and experience the passion and expertise of our instructors firsthand.
