The Accidental Beginning: A Movie, a Friend, and a Lifelong Path
My Aikido journey began, surprisingly enough, with a classic action movie and a friend’s sudden inspiration. I was just 16 years old when my friend, captivated by Steven Seagal Shihan’s moves in “Under Siege,” decided he wanted to learn martial arts. His research led him to the London Aikido Club under Andy Hathaway Sensei, and in August 1997, he joined. I followed soon after, almost by accident, and that decision ultimately shaped my life.
Initially, I trained just once a week. After 11 months, I passed my 6th Kyu grading, a significant first step. That achievement ignited a deeper passion within me, and my training schedule rapidly intensified. I went from weekly sessions to training almost daily, a routine I maintained steadfastly right up until the pandemic hit.
The pandemic, while challenging, also presented an unexpected opportunity. Determined to keep the spirit of Aikido alive, I took the initiative to teach. Twice a week, I led classes outdoors in a park, and twice a week, I connected with students virtually via Zoom. It was a testament to the adaptability and enduring appeal of Aikido, even in uncertain times.
After the pandemic, my path led me to Tony Sargeant Shihan’s group, TIAE (Takemusu Iwama Aikido Europe). Joining this association has been a truly fulfilling experience. I’ve been fortunate to train extensively with Nick Regnier Sensei at Aspire Aikido London. Thanks to the guidance of Tony Shihan and Nick Sensei, I’ve had incredible opportunities to attend seminars with Tony Sargeant Shihan, Said Sebbagh Sensei, and connect with countless other dedicated students at the seminars held in Little Gransden. And yes, I can’t forget to mention the delightful bonus of Jane’s excellent cooking at these events!
Unforgettable Moments and the Power of Connection
My most profound memories in Aikido since joining the Iwama Style under the brilliantly run TIAE organization revolve around the sheer happiness and freedom it brings. Being part of this group means I’m encouraged to explore, to attend any seminar that calls to me, without restriction. This sense of openness is incredibly liberating.
Beyond that, my memories are filled with the faces of the many sensei I’ve met and the anticipation of those I will meet in the future. I strongly believe that to truly excel in Aikido, both on and off the tatami, networking is essential. Meeting other aikidoka at seminars, getting to know different sensei – these connections enrich our understanding and expand our horizons.
Preserving a Legacy: My Goals in Aikido
My personal goal in Aikido is deeply rooted in preserving Iwama Aikido. With the invaluable support of Tony Sargeant Sensei, Said Sebbagh Sensei and other dedicated sensei, I aim to keep the fundamental principles of Iwama Aikido alive. This means not only continuing my own learning through rigorous training but also actively teaching and sharing this profound martial art with others.
More Than Just Self-Defense: What Aikido Offers
When people first step onto the mat, regardless of the Aikido style, they often come with ideas of self-defence, self-improvement, moving meditation, or simply socialising. The beauty of martial arts, however, is that these initial reasons often evolve over time. To retain students, I believe it’s crucial to respect their individual motivations and allow them to discover their own long-term path through clean, proper training.
Many dojos host students who practice multiple martial arts. My philosophy is to support them and remain respectful of their diverse training. Appreciating other martial art forms, even if they differ from our own, offers a unique opportunity. It allows me to understand the principles of other disciplines, identify common ground, and ultimately, foster a deeper sense of mutual respect within the martial arts community.
Nearly Three Decades and Still Loving the Journey
I began my Iwama Aikido journey on August 31, 1997. That means I currently have nearly 28 years of dedicated practice and experience. And I can honestly say, I’m enjoying this journey even more now than ever before.
A Global Tapestry of Training
My training has taken me to various dojos and allowed me to learn from an incredible array of instructors:
- Andy Hathaway Sensei: August 1997 – July 2023
- Shigemi Inagaki Shihan (8th Dan): 1 time in the U.K. & 1 time in Italy
- Paolo Corallini Shihan (7th Dan): 3 times in the U.K. & 5 times in Italy
- Ulf Evenas Shihan (7th Dan): 4 times in the U.K. & 2 times in Italy
- Mark Van Meerendonk Shihan (7th Dan): 1 time in Italy
- Daniel Toutain Sensei (7th Dan): 1 time in Italy
- Robert Maier Sensei (6th Dan): 1 time in Italy
- Georgi Zarkov Sensei (6th Dan): 1 time
- Said Sebbagh Sensei (6th Dan): 4 times in the U.K., 1 time in Belgium, 1 time in Spain, & 2 weeks as Uchi Deshi in Algeria
- Tony Sargeant Shihan (7th Dan): 5 times in the U.K.
- Carlos Van Parys Sensei (6th Dan): 1 time in Belgium
- Hoa Newens Shihan (7th Dan): 1 time in the U.K.
I eagerly anticipate many more opportunities to train under other sensei as they arise.
June 2025