Bert Owen

Bert started ju-jitsu when he was 20, studying under Sensei Benny Stapleberg of the Shi-Huen Academy where he graded for black belt and went on to become the senior instructor.

Later, he started several clubs in Boksburg, Benoni, Ermelo, and the Sutemi club in Pietersburg (now Polokwane). Realising how important it is to ensure his knowledge be passed on to the next generation, Bert invested much of his time teaching children.

He was also highly involved in the sporting aspect of ju-jitsu. Bert first obtained provincial colours for the then Far North and Transvaal provinces. Then in 1993, he was awarded national colours when he was appointed as team manager for the Springbok team that competed in the United Nations of Ju-jitsu championships hosted by Belgium.

Bert instructed Sam Tonkin Snr in Goshin-jitsu (art of self-defence). Using this knowledge, Sam went on to found the Tonkinkan club, and become a great teacher in his own right.

Throughout his life, Bert lived according to the ju-jitsu maxim “Give in to Conquer.” Many of our ju-jitsu clubs today would not exist if it weren’t for him – they serve as a living testament to his legacy.