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Q - Why Did you start Aikido?
A-
I began karate whilst at school but had to stop due to exams and
work. A friend from work had begun training and took me along to a couple
of lessons to see if I would like it. After that my work pattern changed
and I couldn’t make these classes. I later found another class in
Shrewsbury and restarted.
Q - Memories of your first
lesson?
A
- I have two memories. The first of my “first” lesson, thinking that
this is nothing like I had tried before. I remember not getting on with
too well with what was being taught. The second, some 18 months later when
I rejoined another class I could fit into my work pattern. The instructor
mentioned using the “triangle” in techniques and going into some depth
about this. I thought that this was a bit much for me to take in and
wondered if Aikido was for me. I decided to try it for a few
weeks!
Q-
Favourite Technique?
A - Yokomen uchi shihonage. This has been drummed into me
over the years from my main instructor Keith Hayward. In demonstrations he
would always start off with this technique and was a main focus to his
teaching as I was progressing through my kyu grades.
Q - Least
favourite Technique?
A
- Udikymanage. At one time used to love this technique. When executed
with some intelligence like shihonage it really makes both tori and uke
think about what they are doing. Otherwise, from experience it can be
painful and unpleasant experience.
Q -
Favourite Summer School and Why
A - When Masuda Sensei visited in 2002 I felt that
there was a lot of apprehension to being with on the mat. This soon
dissolved as Masuda Sensei has a great sense of humour which transferred
in his teaching. Also the social side this particular year was fantastic.
I also have fond memories of the Millennium Summer School in Bangor, apart
from a morning in the ER with Keith Hayward Sensei on the last morning
after he received a bang to the head. It was a good job that his wife Sue
was there!
Q - Anything else?
A
- Practice is the most
important thing. Regardless if you are an instructor or Fukushidoin. After
40 odd years or so of study the Shidoin still roll up their sleeve and get
stuck in at courses and are continually developing their individuality in
the art. I feel that the UKA owes a great deal of thanks to these people
and Mr Smith. Without there support over the years I wouldn't be here
today. | 
