Chris Vetrisano

At the young age of 6, Chris embarked on his karate journey under the expert tutelage of Pat Drago Shihan in 2007, specialising in Goju Ryu. Throughout his karate career, Chris actively participated in numerous Koshiki tournaments, showcasing his skill and determination in locations such as Barrel and Picton.

In 2013, seeking further growth and challenges, Chris made the decision to join Seiwakai, under the guidance of the esteemed Glenn Stephenson Shihan. This new chapter in his karate journey opened doors to inter-club tournaments, allowing Chris to test his abilities against fellow practitioners from different dojos.

Chris’s dedication and hard work paid off as he progressed through the ranks, achieving his Dan grades under the watchful eye of Jessica Vetrisano Sensei. Her guidance and expertise have played a pivotal role in shaping Chris into the skilled karateka he is today. 

Chris qualified and competed in the JKF Japanese Karate Federation World Tournament held in Osaka in 2023 and in Okinawa in 2024. His participation in these prestigious tournaments highlights his high level of skill and dedication, as only the top karatekas from around the world qualify to compete. These tournaments are a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence, representing both his dojo and his country on the world stage.

Not content with solely focusing on empty-hand techniques, Chris has also delved into the art of Ryukyu Shimbukan Kobudo. Under the esteemed mentorship of Hiroshi Akamine Kaicho and Dell Hamby Kyoshi he is currently studying this traditional Okinawan martial art, enriching his knowledge and understanding of the martial arts world.

Chris’s karate journey serves as an inspiring testament to his commitment, perseverance, and thirst for continuous improvement. With each passing year, he has grown both as a practitioner and an individual, embodying the true spirit of karate.

As Chris continues to evolve in his karate pursuits, we eagerly anticipate the great things that lie ahead for him. His unwavering dedication and passion for the martial arts will undoubtedly lead him to even greater achievements in the future.