Karate has been my passion since my teens and my ambitions are to become a black belt, win a national kumite tournament and, ultimately follow my instructor's footsteps and pass on my knowledge to help others.
I started in October 1990 and have trained ever since, with a short break while my children were little. I am currently a 1st Kyu and train three times a week.
During my time I have trained with various regionals clubs and now with the Shögeki EKKA Martial Arts Club. I have entered various competitions, have attended technical grading and refereeing courses, occasionally cover classes, and actively help promote the club through demonstrations around the community in addition to maintaining their website. Career highlights include the following:
- Receiving the runner-up student of the year for 2008
- Achieving my brown belt (a long-time ambition)
- Winning in the men's 6-4th Kyu Kumite at the EKKA Nationals 2007
Starting in 2007, I use Kickboxing to enhance my Karate technique, flexibility and stamina. I find the pad work very useful to gauge the effectiveness of combinations and the sparring bolsters by fighting skills. I train at least once a week with the Shögeki EKKA Martial Arts Club, frequently run on the treadmill and use the Stowupland Sports Centre Fitness Suite as much as possible.
