Hanshi Robert Bowles, 10th Degree, founder and director of the International Shuri-Ryu Association, began his karate training in Phoenix, Arizona under Grand Master Robert A Trias.
An interest which began as a hobby utilmately changed the direction of his life. The 1960′s were exciting years, as training in the honbu dojo became his primary focus. Local tournaments lead to national competitions and soon Bowles had established himself as one of the top competitors in the country.
Grand Master Trias personally awarded him the coveted Trias International Award, which recognizes the most spirit competitors in the world. Interest in the martial arts was growing quickly, however, karate was still relatively new in most parts of the country.
In light of the fact that Grand Master Trias opened the first karate school in the United States (1946) and was a recognized authority in the field of martial arts, a steady stream of requests for information flowed into the honbu dojo. Bowles was sent by Grand Master Trias as an ambassador of Shuri-Ryu to teach and promote martial across the country.