The Calgary Kyokushin Karate club was first opened at the McKenzie Lake Community Centre in south Calgary by Sempai Kim Fradley in 1994. In 1999, the club was assumed by Shihan Brad Gillespie, who moved to Calgary, to take a job with the Calgary Fire Department. Since that time, the club has registered over 3000 students with the IKO, many who have gone on to become Canadian Champions and to compete at the International level. Shihan Brad was promoted to Fifth Dan in May of 2016, and continues to provide a unique blend of recreational and competitive teachings to his students. The Calgary club hosts many training, competitive and social events throughout the year including the annual Calgary Cup Karate Championships and Calgary Summer festival.