The Founder

Image of Shihan LewisShihan Lewis is the founder of Busho Kai Martial Arts & Fitness and is a former Kumite and Kata Grand Champion.  Shihan Lewis is one of the most respected martial arts instructors in the United States.  He has over 40 years experience in the Martial Arts and is presently a sixth degree black belt and certified Shihan (master instructor) in Shito-Ryu.  He also holds a 6th degree in Goju-Ryu, a black belt in Shotokan and a black belt in JuJitsu.

Shihan Lewis began his martial arts training in the U.S. Virgin Islands under the direction of Grandmaster Frank Ruiz, the founder of the Nisei Goju-Ryu Karate System.  He later moved to New York City to instruct classes at the Nisei Goju-Ryu Headquarters. In 1995 Shihan Lewis received his 6th degree black belt, the same year his instructor, Master Frank Ruiz passed away.  In 1997 Shihan Lewis turned to Hanshi Del Saito, a Shito-Ryu Master and Director of the Traditional Karate-Do Organization for instruction.  His other instructors include Sensei Toyatoro Miyazaki and Hanshi Wilfredo Roldan.

Shihan Lewis is currently the President of the Southwest (AAU) Amateur Athletic Union of the United States and District Chairman for the AAU Karate Program.  Shihan Lewis has an International Degree from the Ministry of Education, Culture and sports at the Budo Academy, Certified Coach for the American Sport Education Program and holds a National AAU Referees license.  Shihan Lewis is a is also a member of the AAU Hall of Fame committee and holds a Martial Arts Congress teaching license.

Shihan Lewis most memorable accomplishments include:

  • 2000-2005 - Traditional Karate League Instructor of the year
  • 1998 - Inducted into the Texas Martial Arts Hall of Fame
  • 1991 - Inducted into the USA Martial Arts “Who’s Who” Elite
  • 1989 - Inducted into the Nisei Goju-Ryu Hall of Fame
  • 1989 - Nisei Goju-Ryu Instructor of the Year
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