International Iaido master visits Rivonia dojo during Easter holidays
A senior martial arts instructor from Australia is sharing his skills and experience with local practitioners as part of a special African tour promoting Iaido.
The Easter holidays brought an exciting opportunity for martial arts enthusiasts, when the RKC Dojo in Rivonia welcomed international instructor Ian Thomason, a 6th Dan Renshi in the Zen Nippon Kendo Renmei (ZNKR) and 1st Dan in Tamiya-ryu, for a special visit on April 4.
Thomason is currently on a tour across Africa, visiting various dojos to help promote and develop the practice of Iaido and traditional Japanese martial arts. His visit to the Rivonia-based dojo allowed students to benefit from his extensive international experience and technical guidance.
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He began learning iaido while living near Nagasaki, Japan, in 1988, achieving his first Dan grading after just nine months of training. After returning to Australia to pursue a career in aviation, he took a break from formal training before resuming club-level practice in 2000.
Most of his advanced gradings, including his 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th Dan ranks, were completed in Japan, reflecting his long-standing connection to the country’s martial arts traditions.
In addition to iaido, Thomason trained in Tsutsumi Hozan-ryu jujutsu from 1983 to 2002. His studies also included kenjutsu through Mugai-ryu and Katori Shinto-ryu systems, broadening his expertise in classical martial arts weapons and techniques.
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Speaking during the class, Thomason said he is pleased to connect with local students and share knowledge during his stay in South Africa. “I am very lucky to have found the RKC Dojo here in South Africa, and I am loving every bit of it. The people are enthusiastic, kind, and hospitable, and I am enjoying the experience.”
He explained that he is currently working in South Africa as a licensed aircraft engineer for the airline Qantas, assisting with aircraft maintenance while a local company prepares to take over operations.
Thomason is expected to remain in the country for approximately seven weeks, possibly extending his stay to two months, during which he plans to continue training and supporting local martial arts development.
He added that he has found many similarities between Australians and South Africans, particularly their shared sense of humour and welcoming nature. “I am here to train as much as I possibly can and to help where I can.”
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