Sempai Dionne began his Shotokan training in Oregon under Sensei Bob Graves in 1975. He then trained with Sensei Junki Yoshida of the Shinen Jinen Ryu until 1985 when he received his Sho Dan. Education, work, and family brought an extended interlude to his training. In 1994, he resumed training while living in Colorado Springs, CO with Sensei Gary Tsutsui. In 1996, job relocation brought him to sunny California where he chose to train at our dojo. He was very impressed with the courtesy and respect demonstrated by our students when he came as a spectator to our annual youth tournament. In 2003, Richard met all the requirements for the rank of Ni Dan at Camarillo Shotokan. He regularly competes in tournaments and seminars throughout Southern California. One thing this odyssey taught Sempai Richard is that once Karate is in your blood, it is very hard to give it up for the long term.
Sempai Richard has three children. His education earned him a BA in International Affairs.
