IN CONCLUSION

The Kenpo Karate system is a thinking mans Martial Art. It provides the tools to a very effective and sensible defence system. You can become a D.I.Y. enthusiast or a skilled tradesman, the choice is yours, only limited by your interest, effort and determination.

It is not a Martial Art that lays down hard and fast rules which must be adhered, questions are encouraged, tailoring is encouraged, examinations of how things are done is encouraged. This means it is not about turning out machines, but providing a system you can use from the very beginning to defend yourself, but also intricate enough that you can spend the rest of your life studying and never have all of the answers. As Mr. Parker’s says "for every principle, move, strike, block there is an opposite and reverse".

I realise should I be successful in attaining Black Belt status, I will really only be beginning to learn about this wonderful system.

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank those without whom I would not be at this stage of my Kenpo career, in particular, Mr. Edward Downey, my instructor, I had trouble moving my left foot back while moving my right hand forward. (some would say that hasn’t changed much). He has been a fantastic instructor, of unquestionable abilities, forever there and always willing to help and encourage at every stage. He has not only shared his knowledge but has exposed me to a wide variety of the highly skilled and principled people in Kenpo Karate :- such as, Professor John Sepulveda who moves with incredible power and speed and who communicates in a manner that enables the most complex of principles easy to absorb and understand. Mr. Jeff Speakman who shares his experience with us regularly and brings different ideas every time.

Mr. John Burgess has spent endless hours drilling me and asking hard questions of me, polishing techniques and improving areas which need work giving of his time unselfishly. John’s speed and power and incredible, his ability to tailor techniques is amazing. I consider John a very good friend and we have often discussed Kenpo outside of the club in a more relaxed environment. For your effort and patience "Thankyou". Mr. Richard Burgess, is someone who has played a big part in my training over the years, always giving a different perspective to my Kenpo.

Darren Mahony, Ed Maher and Martin Hoey, my main training partners, thanks for the support and effort, I really appreciate it and all those that are around when you need it.

I would like to mention my wife Gabrielle who has supported me in my training and even was prepared to dummy for techniques and listen to my interesting insights into Kenpo on a very regular basis . She assures me she really enjoys this aspect of my training . We have four children to keep us busy never mind the commitment required to get this far. So thank you, it means a lot.

I feel we are very fortunate in the club in having a depth of talent and blend of individuals that will ensure the continued success of the club and the association.