Our History

Texas IsshinRYU Founder

Known as Hanshi to his students, Soke Robert A. Kristensen founded Texas Isshinryu Karate Kai in 1991 after several years of training at the Jersey Judo Karate Kai under Shihan Dale Jenkins.  He also trained under Hanshi William H. Duessell and Master Toby Cooling.  He was a world champion competitor and Top 10 competitor in Texas for over 10 years. In 2005 he was inducted into the prestigious Isshinryu Hall of Fame and currently serves as a Board Member.  Soke Kristensen is a Judan (10th degree black belt), currently teaching eight classes each week at the Grapevine Main Dojo.  He also holds black belts in Goju-ryu and Judo.