A BRIEF HISTORY OF GOYARARU

Goyararu was said to have been originated in Tibet, by the late Master Mr. T. Oyama who, after formulating basic ideas of the Arts and philosophy, passed on his studies to a variety of people. Each applied their own interpretation and approach to develop and teach their particular version or 'style' of Goyararu, each representing different aspects, concepts and techniques. This was a contradiction to Mr. Oyama's beliefs for he said, "A true Art form should teach the basic principals and not an instructor's interpretation of them, for the students needs and capabilities may be different to those of the instructor". To teach students a set reaction to a situation is flawed, because everyone is an individual and should, if guided correctly, be able to deal with it according to there own strengths and weaknesses.

Mr. John Williams started training in the early seventies in Nottingham. Together with many other distinguished practitioners began formulating what is now recognised as, the basics and Kata of Goyararu. Various Kata and techniques where tried and tested over the years before being accepted or rejected. John was instrumental in forming the British Goyararu Association (BGA) where he became one of its senior instructors and leading figureheads, teaching and establishing Goyararu throughout the country.

The original teaching format of Goyararu produced many practitioners and instructors of the highest quality. Unfortunately a few leading figureheads wished to dramatically change this proven formulae, and steer away from Master Oyama's beliefs. John Williams decided he could no longer give his support to the B.G.A. and removed himself, together with other senior Black belts, to continue studying Goyararu under the new name of the Goyararu Martial Arts Association (G.M.A.A.). Now that the foundation stones had been weakened the BGA soon collapsed. Many other Goyararu associations established themselves throughout the country and still train to this day, in the noble Art of Goyararu.

To truly understand the 'PATH' of Goyararu John decided to examine all his past teachings, so he put aside his Black belt and wore a White belt to signify a new beginning - thus the seeds of the Goyararu Martial Arts Association where sown. Over the next twenty years he intensely studied all aspects of Goyararu; the techniques, Kata, concepts and philosophy etc. Physical, intellectual and emotional aspects where broken down and re-evaluated in an effort to determine the best method to teach students so they could also benefit from learning the art of Goyararu.

John Williams with over 40 years in the Martial Arts has become a highly respected teacher and practitioner. Due to his relentless study, dedication and determination he is looked upon by many as being a leading authority in the Art of Goyararu.