Meet our Instructor!
Riaan La Grange
His Journey:
Riaan La Grange – Head Instructor
Riaan La Grange’s journey in martial arts began at the age of 7 when he became a student at the Heidelberg JKA Karate Club under the tutelage of his father and Sensei, Dries La Grange. This foundational training instilled in him a deep respect for the discipline and traditions of martial arts. As he grew older, Riaan had the privilege of training under Sensei Keith Geyer, a world-renowned instructor and national team coach. The rigorous training and mentorship he received shaped his approach to karate, emphasizing both technical excellence and the philosophical aspects of Karate-Do.
Throughout his competitive career, Riaan achieved numerous championship titles in both kata (forms) and kumite (fighting). However, his true passion lay in the lifelong practice of karate as a means of personal development and education. He has dedicated his life to training and teaching, sculpting many technically excellent students over the years. Beyond his achievements in karate, Riaan cherishes the lifelong friendships and connections he has made within the global martial arts community.
In 2010, driven by a desire to expand his martial arts repertoire and enhance his self-defense capabilities, Riaan began training in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. He quickly recognized the profound benefits of this art, particularly its emphasis on leverage, technique, and the ability to defend against larger opponents. By 2011, he had earned his Blue Belt in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his martial arts journey.
The integration of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu into his training was a natural progression, complementing his extensive karate background. Jiu-Jitsu’s focus on ground fighting and submissions provided a comprehensive approach to self-defense, making it an invaluable addition to his skill set. Riaan’s holistic approach to martial arts, combining the striking techniques of karate with the grappling techniques of Jiu-Jitsu, offers his students a well-rounded and effective self-defense education.