Ticky Donovan

Who is Ticky Donovan?

David 'Ticky' Donovan OBE is a renowned British karate competitor and coach. He was the coach and manager of both the British and English national karate teams, from 1977 until he retired from that role in 2008. During his tenure as coach, Britain won numerous European and World championship team gold medals. It was for his achievements as a coach that he was awarded the O.B.E. in 1991. Ticky Donovan currently holds a 9th Dan black belt. He is based in Loughton, Essex.

In 1973, Donovan formed his own style of karate known as Ishinryu, which means ‘All of one Heart’. This style has had significant competition success over the years and continues to be practised at a number of UK clubs, as well as in Australia, Canada and New Zealand.

On 28 March 2009, Karate England held a testimonial evening for Donovan, with many senior karateka present, including Steve Arneil, Dave Hazard, Tyrone Whyte, and Aiden Trimble.