When people ask what it was like doing karate in the 70’s, it was:

David Carradine, Bruce Lee and Saturday ‘late night’ movie Kung Fu mystic and magic.

Changing rooms stank of tiger balm, spray starch, cold gi’s being warmed under hand dryers, hai karate aftershave and old spice.

No one said ‘sparring’, it was ‘fighting’, no gloves or padding and full contact. Club rivalry, ‘visits’ and ‘challenges’ were commonplace.

Emotions of fear, dread, camaraderie and friendship made from blood, sweat and never any tears.

Pain, permanent black eyes, cracked and broken ribs, noses, broken teeth, hands, fingers, toes, feet and shins. Huge purple bruises everywhere, particularly on the arms and severe cramp most of the time and at the most embarrassing times.

Travelling anywhere, particularly to the orient was exotic and incredibly adventurous.

Life long friendships were forged and you knew you always had ‘back up’ when you needed it.