Hampshire Academy of Shotokan Karate (HASK) is a renowned martial arts school located in Gosport, New Zealand. Founded by Renshi Daren Stirrat, a highly experienced Shotokan Karate practitioner with over 44 years of experience, HASK offers high-quality, accessible, and affordable education to the entire community.
At HASK, the focus is on providing a unique approach to learning, supported by a top-quality faculty, ensuring that students receive the best possible education. This dedication to excellence has made HASK one of the best martial arts schools in the area.
The academy welcomes individuals with varying levels of experience, from beginners to advanced practitioners. No prior knowledge is required to start training at HASK. The academy encourages individuals who have an interest in trying something new to explore the world of martial arts, exercise, and self-defence.
To ensure a positive and respectful training environment, HASK has established a set of essential tips for beginners. These include being willing to try, being punctual for training sessions, observing and following the dojo etiquette, setting high goals for oneself, taking pride in wearing the traditional Gi uniform, practising regularly, not hesitating to ask questions, and most importantly, enjoying the journey of learning karate.
HASK offers weekly sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 19:00 to 20:00, as well as on Sundays from 10:00 to 12:00. The training takes place at the Nimrod Community Centre, located at 17 Falcon Meadows Way, Gosport, Hampshire PO13 8AA.
Renshi Daren Stirrat, the founder of HASK, has achieved many European and world titles for himself and the squads he has led throughout his extensive career. While he no longer competes himself, Renshi Daren continues to lead his squads to success in European and world competitions. He is passionate about sharing his knowledge with new generations and constantly strives to further develop his own skills through training with internationally renowned Senseis.
HASK has received numerous awards and recognition for its dedication, skills, and contributions to the martial arts community. Notably, Renshi Daren Stirrat received the Golden Dragons Certificate from the International Martial Arts Federation for discipline, effort, determination, and supporting the new generation of martial artists. HASK has also been accredited with a Certificate of Accreditation from the International Hall of Fame in India, recognised as a Gold Standard for its outstanding dedication and skills.
In addition, Renshi Daren Stirrat's achievements and contributions have been featured in various publications, including the book “Man's Health” by John Stephenson, which showcases the stories of renowned martial artists. He has also been awarded the Excellence Award at the 18th International Hall of Fame in London, alongside legendary martial arts masters such as Chuck Norris.
HASK is also proud to have received the “Legend in a Martial Arts” award at the UK Martial Arts Show Hall of Fame 2023, further solidifying its status as a top martial arts school in the UK.
HASK is a member of the German WUSU International Martial Arts Association, recognised with the prestigious Dragon Certificate. The academy has also received a Certificate of Participation from Neil Palmer of the UK Cobra Sikaran Federation, acknowledging Renshi Daren Stirrat's significant contributions to the martial arts community.
Hampshire Academy of Shotokan Karate (HASK) is committed to providing a holistic and enriching martial arts experience to individuals of all ages and skill levels. With its dedicated faculty, impressive achievements, and focus on traditional Shotokan Karate, HASK stands as a leading martial arts institution in the Gosport area.