Jim Alcheik

(1931-1962). A pioneer figure of aikido in France. Born to Algerian parents in Duperre, Algeria. Moved with family to France in 1938 at age of seven. Trained in Yoseikan Aikido under Minoru MOCHIZUKI in Paris from 1951-1954. Traveled to Shizuoka, Japan, in 1954 where he remained for three years studying under Mochizuki. Returned to France as the representative of YOSEIKAN AIKIDO and established the Fédération Française d’Aikido, Taijutsu et Kendo. Alcheik organized a training program to produce aikido instructors drawing primarily on judo black belts. He was killed in an explosion in the Villa El Biard incident in Algeria in 1962.