Our Team Instructors
Founder & Head Coach of Top Notch Muay Thai
Coach Dale MacKnowed began his martial arts journey in 1996, developing a lifelong passion for martial arts, combat sports, and the pursuit of knowledge.
His training began with traditional Okinawan Karate, where he spent five years developing his fundamentals and competing in tournaments throughout the 1990s. From there, he expanded his studies into Jiu Jitsu before moving on to Hung Jong Kuen, a traditional style of Kung Fu that incorporated steel training dummies rather than the more commonly recognized wooden dummies. He continued his martial arts training throughout his high school years, building a foundation in different fighting systems and approaches to combat.
In 2004, after watching the martial arts film Ong-Bak, Dale discovered his passion for Muay Thai and Kickboxing. Inspired by the athleticism, technique, and intensity of the sport, he began his dedicated Muay Thai journey in 2005.
Between 2005 and 2011, Dale competed in a variety of combat sports events, including ring fights, tournaments, and smokers. With ambitions of making a name for himself in the fight world, he pursued competition with dedication and determination. However, health challenges eventually forced him to step away from his competitive ambitions.
Although his path as a competitor changed, his passion for martial arts never faded. Dale continued to train, study, and develop his skills, learning from various gyms and coaches throughout Western Canada, as well as gaining experience through training in Thailand.
Over the years, his journey has evolved beyond simply becoming a better martial artist. He has developed a deep appreciation for the lessons martial arts can teach, including discipline, perseverance, confidence, respect, and personal growth.
In 2021, Dale turned his lifelong passion into a new chapter by opening Top Notch Muay Thai. His vision was to create a welcoming training environment where people of all experience levels could learn striking arts, challenge themselves, build confidence, and become part of a supportive martial arts community.
Today, as Founder and Head Coach of Top Notch Muay Thai, Dale continues to share the knowledge he has gained through decades of training and experience. His journey from a young karate student to a Muay Thai competitor and martial arts instructor reflects his belief that martial arts is a lifelong pursuit — one where there is always something new to learn, improve, and pass on to the next generation.
Throwin’ Kicks Since ’96.
Owner Head Coach
Dale MacKnowed
Coach & Fighter
Top Notch Muay Thai
Skylar Ashley is a dedicated martial artist, fighter, and coach at Top Notch Muay Thai, known for his focus, discipline, and commitment to continually improving his skills both inside and outside the ring.
Having trained for a number of years, Skylar has developed his abilities through consistent training, competition, and a willingness to push himself to the next level. His journey has taken him to Thailand, where he trained in the birthplace of Muay Thai, gaining valuable experience and further developing his understanding of the art.
Skylar’s hard work has translated into success in competition. Among his accomplishments, he won the BC Muay Thai Provincials and competed for a local title with VIP in Kelowna, continuing to establish himself as a rising talent in the striking community.
In November 2026, Skylar is set to step into the ring for his 13th fight, challenging for the OFC’s inaugural 160-pound Kickboxing title. Following his previous title fight, this next opportunity represents another important milestone in his competitive journey.
Beyond his accomplishments as a fighter, Skylar brings the same dedication and focus to his role as a coach at Top Notch Muay Thai. His experience as an active competitor allows him to share practical knowledge, help students develop their technique, and inspire others through his work ethic and commitment to the sport.
As he continues to grow as both a fighter and coach, Skylar represents the values that define Top Notch Muay Thai: dedication, perseverance, and the constant pursuit of improvement.
A proven competitor. A dedicated coach. Always striving for the next level.
Coach Skylar Ashley
Boxing Coach | Top Notch Muay Thai
Paul Johnston is an amateur and professional boxer with experience competing in Canada and training and fighting in Thailand. With a background in competitive boxing and a passion for the sport, Paul is now focused on sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of boxers.
Paul and Coach Dale first crossed paths in 2016 at Toshido MMA in Kelowna, connecting through their shared passion for martial arts and combat sports.
Today, Paul brings his experience into the coaching team at Top Notch Muay Thai, teaching Boxing twice a week and helping students develop their technique, confidence, and understanding of the sweet science.
Coach Paul Johnston
Guest Coach Karo Kleinhaar
Muay Thai Champion | ISKA Kickboxing Champion
Karo Kleinhaar is an accomplished martial artist, Muay Thai champion, and ISKA Kickboxing champion who brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the Top Notch Muay Thai team.
A true globetrotter, Karo travels between Australia, Ontario, and British Columbia, where she runs her business and shares her passion for martial arts through coaching and training. Whenever she is on the West Coast in Kelowna, we are fortunate to have her join us at Top Notch Muay Thai as a guest coach.
With her competitive background and international experience, Karo brings valuable insight, technical knowledge, and a champion’s mindset to the gym. She enjoys sharing what she has learned with our members, helping them develop their skills and grow as martial artists.
We are proud to have Karo as part of the Top Notch community and grateful for the experience, energy, and knowledge she brings to our team whenever she is in town.
