I started training in Shotokan karate in 1976, at the age of seventeen. My first instructor was Sensei Tony Conroy, who was a 2^nd dan at the time with the KUGB. The training took place at Leicester Karate Club, which was in the town centre. The main reason I started karate was, like many other people at that time, due to seeing a Bruce Lee film. Not finding a local club at the time, I read ‘Teach Yourself Karate’, which if I recall was written by Don Dreager. Through reading this basic text I managed to ‘perfect’ a very ham fisted version of gedan barai. It did however get me stretching, so when I eventually found a club, I hoped I would have a head start.

In January 1977 I was fortunate enough to take, and pass my first grading under the late Sensei Enoeda of the JKA. I can still remember my first impression of this karate legend. His mere presence commanded respect, and got it!

I continued to train at Leicester under Sensei Conroy, and in September 1980 I successfully took my 1^st dan under Sensei Enoeda. During my time at Leicester Karate Club I was fortunate enough to train and grade with many excellent instructors, including Sensei’s K.Enoeda, H.Tomita, M.Kawasoe, A.Sherry, R.Poynton, T.O’Neil, W.Higgins, S.Cattle, F.Brennan and C.Cummings.

Once I had achieved 1^st dan I started training in other martial arts to increase my knowledge, while still training in Shotokan karate. Over the years I have trained in aspects of Aikido, Judo, Ju-Jitsu, Wing Chun and Lau Gar styles of kung fu and some traditional weapon work, all of which I have enjoyed. Other instructors I have trained with during this time include: - H.Ohta, P.McCarthy, D.Sharkey (karate), J.Longstreet and R.Macallum (USA national semi-contact squad), sensei Kanetsuka (aikido), S.Faulkner and K.Brewerton (lau gar), R.Clarke and V.Morris (kyusho).

After 27 years I still enjoy all aspects of martial arts training (even if my body doesn’t), and my thirst for knowledge is as strong as ever. My main inspiration is still Sensei Conroy, who has a meticulous eye for correct technique and is not happy unless he is giving and receiving 110%. I still rate him as one of the best technicians I have had the pleasure to train with. I have also been inspired by the technically superb M.Kawasoe Sensei and Sensei’s H.Tomita and S.Cattle who were both so full of enthusiasm for their art that you were carried along the endless repetitions they got you to perform, which they also performed along side you. 

So here’s to another 27 years blood, sweat but hopefully not too many tears!

I recently been graded 5th Dan by Sensei Conroy July 2009.