Midwest Earl Grey Karate is a Traditional Shotokan Karate school led by Sensei Jerry Marr. He has over 50 years of karate experience, having won numerous US National awards, and has developed numerous international and national athletes across Canada. Marr Sensei has studied under many top instructors of the Japan Karate Association, as well as in other martial arts disciplines, and has 9 years of Judo experience. The blend of modern concepts and traditional karate techniques provides the best experience for all levels and ages interested in authentic karate.
Our Instructors
Sensei Jerry Marr
Chief Instructor, JKA International Canada
Sensei Jerry Marr has over 60 years of experience in Japanese martial arts, with more than 50 years dedicated to Karate.
He holds the rank of 7th Dan, recognized by the Japan Karate Shotorenmai (JKS) organization, formerly headed by the famous Tetsuhiko Asai, 9th Dan.
Sensei Marr received the promotion to the rank of Shichi-Dan (7th Dan) in October 2007. The Technical Examining Board of the JKS in Japan reviewed Marr’s technical background and experience, and, with Katsumata Sensei’s recommendation, deemed this promotion highly deserved.
On February 1st, 2013, Sensei Marr was promoted to the rank of 8th Dan by the Technical Committee of JKA International of Canada, and his certificate was presented by Katsumata Sensei.
Master Nishiyama once referred to Marr Sensei as a pioneer in promoting and developing Traditional JKA Shotokan Karate in Canada. The development and success of present-day Traditional JKA Shotokan are largely due to Marr’s efforts.
Sensei Don McKenzie
Chief Instructor, Midwest Earl Grey Traditional Karate
Sensei Don McKenzie is a 6th Degree Black Belt in Traditional Shotokan Karate with over 40 years of training, teaching, and coaching experience.
He began his karate journey in the early 1970s under Sensei Marr and has since dedicated his life to the development of students of all ages and skill levels.
In 1984, Sensei McKenzie established the Earl Grey Community Centre karate program, where he has been teaching children and adults for decades, helping build strong fundamentals, discipline, and confidence in his students.
As a competitor, he represented Manitoba on multiple occasions and earned recognition early in his career for his determination and performance in open tournaments.
Sensei McKenzie is a certified NCCP Learning Facilitator and Evaluator through Karate Canada and has coached athletes at the provincial, national, and international levels.
He has served as Assistant Technical Director for Karate Manitoba and has been a senior official at provincial, national, and international competitions.
He was recognized multiple times as a finalist for Sport Manitoba’s Coach of the Year in the High Performance category (2006, 2007, 2008).
His lifelong commitment to Traditional Karate continues through his involvement with JKA Canada, where he serves on the Technical Board and contributes to the ongoing development of karate in Canada.
Midwest Karate Earl Grey 