"The ultimate aim of karate lies not in victory or defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants"
- Master Gichin Funakoshi
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I have always been enthusiastic about sport, and was always willing to take up a new challenge whether I turned out to be any good at it or not, it was the taking part that was important. Better to be running around doing sports than being a couch-potato is my philosophy. I started training Ishinryu karate between 1984 and 1986 and 1991 and 1993 with Sensei Simon Kidd attaining 4th Kyu and 5th Kyu, respectively. Studies and work interrupted my training for some years, but I just knew that I had to return to classes. Karate grabs you and takes hold and becomes part of every day. I came across Sensei Debi`s classes in an advert in a newsagents window and began training Funakoshi Shotokan in 2003. It is fine to start training, but what keeps you training is a balance between the expertise of the instructor and commitment and perseverance from the student. Karate requires and instils self-discipline in those who take part. Perseverance pays off because once you are through the first few lessons you will find your fitness, focus and confidence increasing. Sensei Debi`s is able to motivate her students to push themselves to a limit and then just that bit beyond and this is done in a firm, but fair way. What you put into karate you will get out. It is heartening to watch students progress from beginner through the grades as they grow in their physical ability and develop a more positive and focussed attitude.
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