The newest Maine Isshinryu Karate Academy has opened for business on Davis Island in Edgecomb.
Maine Isshinryu currently operates dojos in Manchester, Randolph, and Melbourne, Fla.
The new Edgecomb dojo, located on Route 1 near Eddy Road, opened May 1 and is currently offering classes in Isshinryu karate for ages 4 and up and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for ages 7 and up.
Sensei Clement Bailey, the owner of the dojo, has been training in Isshinryu karate for the last 15 years under his lifelong friend Shihan Rob Pushard, who owns the MIKA dojo in Manchester.
After instructing for the last five years at the Manchester academy, Bailey decided to take the plunge and open his own.
“It’s scary, but I’m going to do it because I’m passionate about it,” Bailey said.
Bailey will have support of Pushard and his wife, Renshi Rebecca Pushard, to help him get started in his new undertaking.
“It’s pretty exciting to see him open his own dojo,” Rob said. He and Bailey have been best friends since they were in sixth grade.
“You couldn’t ask for a better mentor,” Bailey said of Rob.
Rebecca, who owns the MIKA Fit Cross Training Center in Manchester, said she plans to roll out fitness classes (including kick boxing) at the Edgecomb dojo this summer. Participants can be of any age and prior experience is not required, she said.
“I don’t care if you stand there and disco dance for an hour, as long as you keep moving,” Rebecca said. “It’s supposed to be fun.”
A grand opening for the Edgecomb location is being planned for June.
For more information on Maine Isshinryu Karate Academy and the new Edgecomb dojo, visit http://www.maineisshinryu.com or call 882-6000.
