Lawrie Hood

Web Master:  When did you start your Karate training?

Interviewee:	After a false start in 1986 (I graded to an Orange belt then gave up) I came back and started in earnest in 1997.

Web Master:  Why did you start Karate?

Interviewee:  I thought it would be a challenging way to get fit and also learn how to handle yourself in a ‘difficult’ situation.

Web Master:  Who was your first instructor?

Interviewee:  Simon Kidd and his dad Fred.

Web Master:  What is your occupation?

Interviewee:  I am a Software Engineer working for a small software consultancy firm near Cambridge. 

Web Master:  How long have you worked there?

Interviewee:  About 18 months as a ‘permie’, after 20 years freelance contracting.

Web Master:  Do you do any teaching?

Interviewee:  I have helped with the teaching of junior grades whenever I have been able to make the earlier class at Brentwood. My current work commitments however mean that I can’t make that earlier class.

Web Master:  Have you had much success in competition?

Interviewee:  I haven’t been hurt so that was successful! Really though, some might say I’m a bit long in the tooth for competition, unless they introduce an ‘old-timers’ category and wheel me in.

Web Master:  What is your favourite Kata?

Interviewee:	I like Kanku-Sho which we were taught recently. It’s quite difficult in places, but I do like a challenge. 

Web Master:  What is your favourite technique?

Interviewee:  I like Tobi Yoki Geri. It feels good to sink it into a kick bag.

Web Master:  Do you feel Karate has influenced your personal life in anyway?

Interviewee:  Well it has given me fitness and confidence plus I have made a lot of good friends in the club. When I had a bad car accident 2 years ago I made a good recovery mainly because I had been in a fit condition due to my karate training. The prospect of returning to karate training also gave me a target to aim for. Karate also helps take some of the stress out of your daily routine. After an hour or so of Karate exercises you haven’t the energy to be stressed!

Web Master:  Do you have any other interests?

Interviewee:  I also enjoy other sports such as swimming, squash and badminton whenever I can fit them in. Other than that it’s down to the usual family commitments (4 ‘children’, one in Australia).

Web Master:  What are your current goals in your training?

Interviewee:  Improve my techniques and my flexibility and continue to enjoy my training.