Why did you start

It's a bit cliché, but my journey started with the 1984 Karate Kid movie. I can remember it like it was yesterday—I was 9 years old, and it had just come out on VHS (I'm that old). I had no idea what to expect, but I was blown away. The biggest surprise was Daniel actually won—with that iconic kick. That moment sparked my love for Martial Arts. Soon after, my dad let me watch Bruce Lee films. There were no local Kung Fu classes in Chester where I lived, so I gave Japanese Ju Jitsu a try. I lasted about six months—it just didn't have enough kicks for me!

Eventually, I found a traditional Shotokan Karate class in Helsby. It was twice a week and really strict. I still remember some of the gradings with the Dan grades and an elderly Japanese Sensei overseeing them. I made it to 4th Kyu before teenage angst got in the way, and I gave it up. But by then, the Karate seed had been planted. It even helped me deal with a few bullies at school—and I never forgot how to throw a pretty decent Mawashi Geri!

For 30 years, I daydreamed about starting again. Then in 2018, at age 42, I finally did it. I Googled local Karate classes... and up popped Red Tiger.

What keeps you training

These days, it's less about self-defence and more about mental and physical discipline—and improving my Karate. When I'm training, everything else disappears—work, life stresses, all of it. I get completely in the zone. That focus and adrenaline—it's addictive. It makes me laugh when the other Senseis tell me to relax during Kumite. The thing is... this is me relaxing!

Physically, it's been a godsend. Getting older is inevitable, but staying fit and flexible is a choice. Beyond that, it's the teaching that drives me. I'm a big believer in the all-round benefits of Martial Arts and sport—passing on that knowledge and helping others find purpose, focus, and confidence through it..

Job in the real world

Global Studio Director with around 30 years’ service in advertising and media.

Favourite part of karate

Kumite. You just can’t beat that adrenaline rush. When a kick lands clean or you pull off a perfect sweep… if you know, you know!

Hobbies other than karate

When I find the time, I love a good mountain walk. I play drums and have a real passion for all things music. I'm also a bit of a film buff. And then there’s Friday night 5-a-side—a little bit for the football, but mostly for the post-match pints of Guinness.