Frederick 'Skipper' Ingham

Achievements:

• Founding of Bermuda Karate Institute (1970): Skipper opened Bermuda’s first martial arts school, significantly influencing the growth and development of karate in Bermuda.

• Organizing Bermuda's First Karate Tournament (1972): He promoted and organized the first-ever karate tournament on the island, setting a precedent for future martial arts competitions in Bermuda.

• 10th Degree Black Belt: Skipper achieved the highest rank of a 10th-degree black belt, exemplifying his skill, dedication, and mastery in the discipline of karate.

• International Competitor: He competed in numerous international martial arts events, representing Bermuda with distinction and achieving notable success.

• Queen’s Certificate and Badge of Honour (1994): Skipper was the first martial artist to receive this prestigious award, recognizing his contributions to the development of martial arts in Bermuda.

• Induction into the Bermuda Sports Hall of Fame (2007): This honor was bestowed upon him for his significant impact on sports and martial arts in Bermuda.

• Feature on the Cover of "Black Belt" Magazine: His skills and contributions to martial arts were recognized internationally, including being featured on the cover of this renowned martial arts publication.

• Mentorship and Training: Beyond his personal achievements, Skipper taught and mentored hundreds of students, including his own family members, many of whom went on to represent Bermuda in international competitions.

• Promotion of Martial Arts Philosophy: He was deeply committed to teaching not only the physical aspects of karate but also its philosophical and spiritual dimensions, emphasizing respect, health, and community service.

• Cultural Ambassador: Through his travels and teaching, Skipper served as an ambassador for Bermuda, spreading the island's unique culture and spirit within the global martial arts community.

Biography:

Born on February 18, 1930, in Paget, Frederick Innis Wood Ingham, affectionately known as Skipper, was a pivotal figure in introducing and nurturing the art of karate in Bermuda. His journey into martial arts began after his service in the US Army and during his time as a merchant seaman, which took him to Japan. There, the discipline and depth of karate captivated him, leading him to start training in 1955 under Grand-Master Peter Urban in New York. His dedication to martial arts was not just a pursuit of personal excellence but a passionate endeavor to share this art with his home country.

In 1965, he earned his Shodan ( 1st degree) black belt. He opened a karate school in New York called the Mid-Town Dojo. Just before returning to Bermuda, he earned his second dan. Soon after arriving in Bermuda, Ingham told his wife, "We haven't worked since we've been back. Let's go outside on the grass and work out." Ingham said after a few minutes, they had drawn quite a crowd, many of whom had never seen karate.

In 1970, he founded the Bermuda Karate Institute, marking a significant milestone as the first martial arts school in Bermuda. This institution became a cornerstone for martial arts in the region, fostering a community of practitioners and enthusiasts. In 1972, he organized the first karate tournament in Bermuda, setting a precedent for many future martial arts events on the island. Through his efforts, Skipper cultivated a vibrant community that embraced karate not just as a sport but as a way of life, emphasizing discipline, respect, and personal growth.

In the 70s, he became a personal trainer for tycoon John Deuss, who sponsored the Transworld Oil Karate team, which competed across the world in various events. Ingham served as assistant coach on a team coached by Chuck Merriman. Throughout his school, the Bermuda Karate Institute, he organized the first karate federation in Bermuda in 1973. Along with Merriman, the Inghams received a Tournament of the Year award from the Professional Karate League in 1988. In 1992, he became the first Bermudian to win a world title in forms in the senior division at the World Karate Federation Championships in Mestre, Italy.

1994 was a banner year for Sensei Ingham as he was awarded the Queen's Certificate and Badge of Honor for his many contributions to the sport in Bermuda. In October of that year, student Gladwin 'Roots' Phillips won the world sparring title at the World Karate Organization championships in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Ingham said he gets great satisfaction out of passing on his wisdom to his students.

Ingham continued to be active and compete overseas. He holds a 10th-degree black belt in the USA Goju and a 7th degree in Okinawan Goju. In 2005, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from USA Goju. When asked how he would like to be remembered, Ingham said: "That I was a good person. That I did what I was supposed to do. I was a nice guy; a good teacher."

Frederick 'Skipper' Ingham passed away on November 9, 2022, but his legacy lives on through the Bermuda Karate Institute and the many lives he touched.

Legacy:

Frederick 'Skipper' Ingham's legacy is monumental in the world of martial arts, particularly in Bermuda. As the founder of the Bermuda Karate Institute and several other schools, he nurtured generations of martial artists, passing on his vast knowledge and skills. His dedication to the sport and his students has earned him numerous accolades, including a world title in forms and prestigious awards like the Queen's Certificate and Badge of Honor.

Ingham's impact extends beyond his achievements; he has instilled values of discipline, respect, and perseverance in countless individuals. His legacy is not just in the trophies and titles but in the lives he has touched and the martial arts community he has helped to build and sustain. His life's work has left an indelible mark on the martial arts world in Bermuda, turning what was once a foreign art into a beloved tradition. His dedication to his craft and his community remains a guiding light for future generations of martial artists in Bermuda and beyond.