What’s happening?
Thornlands karate athlete Robin Johnson has been selected to represent Australia at the GKR Karate World Cup in the United Kingdom.
Johnson will compete as part of the Australian team, led by Head Coach Anthony Ryan. His selection marks a major milestone for a Redlands resident who first joined karate to support his son.
Redland City Minute had the chance to interview Johnson ahead of the event. He is now preparing to wear Australian colours on the world stage.
Why it matters?
Johnson’s selection recognises years of discipline, training and personal commitment. It also shows how community sport can create new opportunities at any age.
Anthony Ryan, Head Coach of the Australian GKR Karate National Team, said representing Australia “is a significant honour for the athlete”. He said it rewards “the commitment and discipline they consistently apply to their training”.
Ryan said the Australian team was “extremely proud” and looked forward to seeing the athletes achieve strong results.
He also said local media coverage can recognise an athlete’s hard work. It can also encourage others to pursue something meaningful in their own lives.
Local Impact
Johnson, 57, lives in Thornlands and is Managing Director of Provincial Building. The local construction and property development company works across homes and communities in the Redlands.
He said the company is passionate about creating quality homes and communities throughout the region.
“I genuinely love what we do,” Johnson said. “Whether it’s delivering affordable housing opportunities or developing premium lifestyle residences, our goal is always the same.”
He said that goal is “to create well-designed homes that people are proud to live in”.
Johnson said being able to help shape the Redlands is deeply rewarding. He also sees karate as another way to support people and community growth.
“My involvement in karate, like my business locally, comes from wanting to help people grow, build confidence, and improve their lives,” he said.
By the numbers
- The GKR Karate World Cup will run from Friday, July 24 to Sunday, July 26, 2026, at Telford International Centre in the United Kingdom.
- The three-day international event is expected to attract more than 1000 competitors from around the world.
- Johnson is 57 and has trained in GKR Karate for six years, after joining with his then 11-year-old son.
- His preparation includes at least two dojo sessions each week, plus Pilates, Hot Yoga and general conditioning.
Zoom In
Johnson first became involved in GKR Karate when his then 11-year-old son wanted to try martial arts.
His son was shy, and Johnson and his wife saw karate as a way to build confidence. Johnson joined to support him, without expecting the sport to become such a major part of his life.
“Six years later, I’m still training and haven’t looked back,” Johnson said.
He said karate continues to challenge him physically and mentally. It has helped him stay fit, improve his mental wellbeing and build discipline.
“Karate has taught me discipline, resilience, humility, and the importance of continual self-improvement,” Johnson said.
He said those qualities have also helped him in business and everyday life.
Johnson said the GKR Karate community has played a major part in keeping him committed. He values the way people support each other, regardless of age or experience.
His selection for Australia came as a proud and humbling moment.
“When I found out I’d been accepted to represent Australia in the UK GKR World Cup, I was incredibly excited, but at the same time very humbled,” Johnson said.
“To have the opportunity to wear the Australian colours and represent GKR Karate on the world stage is a real honour.”
Johnson said he never started karate with international competition in mind. He simply joined to support his son.
“It’s a reminder that with consistency, commitment, and a willingness to keep learning, you can achieve things you never imagined, regardless of your age,” he said.
Zoom Out
Johnson’s story highlights the wider role of community sport in Redlands.
For him, karate is not only about competition. It is also about confidence, discipline, friendship and lifelong learning.
Preparing for the World Cup now reaches well beyond formal classes. Johnson said he has changed his diet and lifestyle to give himself the best chance to perform well.
He is also working on the technical and mental side of competition. That includes analysing his style, movement, reactions and ability to score points.
“Small improvements can make a big difference,” Johnson said.
Johnson is not fundraising or seeking financial support for the trip. He is fully self-supporting.
He said the best way the Redlands community can support him is through encouragement.
“For me, this journey is not about personal recognition, but about representing Australia, GKR Karate and the Redlands community with pride,” he said.
What To Look For Next?
Johnson will continue his training before the Australian team travels to the United Kingdom for the July World Cup.
His focus is on arriving prepared, focused and committed. The event will give him the chance to test himself internationally while representing Australia, GKR Karate and the Redlands.
His story may encourage more people to try something new, challenge themselves and believe they are capable of more at any age.
