In 1975 Bill’s older brother Chas, who was already training, invited him to a karate demonstration in Chester given by the Aaisatsu Karate Club with guest instructor Sensei Tomita (Sensei Enoeda’s assistant at that time). Intrigued by the unusual techniques and impressed by the speed and power of Sensei Tomita, he joined the Aaisatsu and for the next 27 years, was instructed by Sensei Jim Smith a 5th Dan KUGB until his untimely death. Sensei Smith could appear quite stern, a large uncompromising karateka whom Bill came to know as a very caring instructor with a huge heart, who when asked for advice about anything, would happily give it. As a member of the KUGB Bill has been fortunate to have trained under some of the world’s top instructors, the calibre of which is second to none. Any successes he has achieved in karate over the years reflects the quality of instruction he has received from the senior instructors of the KUGB, especially Senseis Enoeda and Sherry. Bill’s first training under Sensei Enoeda was in January 1977 when he passed 4th Kyu. With his reputation preceding him Bill was more than a little nervous. Since then having trained under Sensei many times, especially on his courses at Crystal Palace, he learnt first hand of his wicked sense of humour. On more occasions than he cares to admit Sensei could find amusement in my inadequacies! Bill started competing in 1976 and has been fortunate to represent the Aaisatsu Karate Club until his retirement in 2002. Some of the highlights being, in 1976 being selected for the KUGB Junior Squad, then competing at the BKCC National Championships, gaining 3rd place in kumite. Selected for the England All Stars Junior Squad and competed at European level. At senior level Bill was a member of the Northern Squad, competing at the Inter Regionals. As a member of the Aaisatsu Karate Club Bill competed many times, the most memorable being:
- 1982 North West Open – Senior Kumite 1st
- 1986 North of England Open Karate Championships – Male Team Kata 1st, Male Team Kumite 2nd
- 1986 Chester & North Wales Championships – Male Team Kata 1st
- 1989 KUGB Northern Region – Team Kata 2nd
- 1983, 1986, 1987,1992, 2001, 2002 KUGB National Championships – Team Kata 3rd
- 1991 KUGB Northern Regions – Team Kumite 3rd
- 1991 KUGB Northern Regions – Individual Senior Kata 3rd
- 1997 KUGB Northern Regions – team Kumite 3rd
Having retired from competition in 2002, Bill hopes to continue his involvement in his capacity as a Referee. As Chief Instructor of the Aaisatsu Karate Club Bill hopes to inspire his students in the way he has been inspired.
