I got my black belt at the end of the summer course in August 2011
My first instructor was Andy Cornish at the Tattingstone Club, part of the Arena Academy
As, I believe, with a lot of late starters, like myself, it all began with children. I used to take my stepchildren to class, thought I’d “give it a go” and got hooked
I don’t know that anyone actually inspires me. Of course, I watch martial arts films and think “I wish I could do that” but ultimately I motivate myself to try to be the best I can be
There are lots more Dan grades to be achieved and lots more techniques to learn. I also enjoy helping the kyu grades and, I don’t know if this makes sense but, some people smoke, some people drink – I do Karate
In the past I have played many sports e.g. football, tennis, squash, badminton, cricket, snooker and pool. I liked to try most sports and still do but the only other sport in which I currently participate is Ju Jitsu, in which I achieved my 1st Dan black belt last year
Some of the people still training from when I began are Ben Cornish, Stef Doran, Beth Taylor and Emma Plumbley
You will need to be hard working, dedicated, self-motivated, willing to listen and accept that you will not be able to do everything in a week. The rewards will come
I started Karate at the tender age of 46. (You are never too old)
My next goal is 2nd Dan in 2013
On Tuesdays I train with Andy Cornish at Tattingstone, Wednesdays with Billy Brennan at Needham Market and Fridays & Sundays with Jan Strzelec at Harkstead and Tattingstone respectively
At 25 years of age I achieved my Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award, I have done a parachute jump, scuba dived and flown an aeroplane
My favourite kick is turn heel kick (Pandae Kolchyo Chagi)
My favourite Kata is Palgue Chil Jang
My favourite fighting technique is snap punch, reverse punch, round kick off the back leg
My top tip has to be train hard, grade easy
Be confident, believe in yourself and always do your very best in whatever you do