Shihan Lyle Abel
5th dan

Shihan Lyle Abel began practicing Goju-ryu karate in 1976 and then trained in Shukokai where he was graded to nidan by the Chief Technical Master of Shukokai, Kimura-sensei in 1981 and to sandan by the president of Shito-ryu Shukokai Union, Yamada Haruyoshi-sensei in 1998.

Shihan Lyle, who frequently trained with practitioners of Kyokushin karate during his time with Shukokai, formally began practicing Kyokushin in 2001. He was awarded his 4th dan in 2007 and his 5th dan in 2013; both by Kancho Matsui in Japan.

Shihan Lyle represented South African Universities in both kata and kumite. He has also represented his State in kumite from 1979 to 1983, captaining the team in 1982 and 1983. He was selected to the South African National All-styles Squad in 1982/3, and was part of the squad (managed by Shihan Tockar) that won the national team title.

He was a prolific medal winner at Shukokai tournaments in South Africa in both kata and kumite and on a national and state level. He was selected to represent South Africa at the Maccabi Games of 1981 and 1985.

Shihan Lyle has had significant experience in managing and coaching karate teams. He managed and coached the University of Cape Town’s karate team to the South African Universities Championships from 1983 to 1985.

He began instructing in Cape Town in 1979 and started and operated the Rose Bay dojo in 1995. He now instructs and trains at North Bondi dojo.