Sensei Kantu Patel 5th Dan
I started training in Martial Arts in 1972, in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire.
Judo at school with a fellow pupil called Alan Davis..
I met my first sensei Jim McCullough, a Police dog handler and Ex Marine Commando, who taught Taekwondo.
The initial sessions in a church hall on York Road, with 2 other students Carl and Michael. Jim then taught at the local Army Cadets of which I attended.
I continued training in Taekwondo when I moved to Gt. Yarmouth in 1977, with Chris Remy, who was associated with Billy Brennan and Mick Blackwell.
I was introduced to Shukokai by a friend (Tim Reilly) and under the guidance of my then sensei Alan Martin and his wife Pat (Eastern Shukokai Karate Association) where I attained my dan grade. During this time I represented the AMA GB squad under sensei Barry Nash.
I have gained experience in various martial arts including Aikido (Frank Burlingham - Broadland Aikido) and Goshin Juitsu (Kevin Garwood/ Mike Johnson) with whom I graded to Nidan.
One of the highlights in my martial arts to date, is having trained with Chojiro Tani sensei when he visited the UK, just prior to his death and also the trip to Okinawa, April 09, to train with the masters (see gallery). An eye opening experience to see such venerable gentlemen, who in my opinion are faster, stronger and more flexible than people 70 years younger!! |
