Mrs Queen Spotlight

How did you get into Martial Arts?

 

I got into Martial arts after an instructor came to my school when I was doing my A-levels to teach us some self defence. I became obsessed with the ability to use your own body to protect yourself and using good technique to create power. The instructor taught Tae Kwon Do so I had a few classes before I went to University and carried on training there. After 4 years of learning TKD at University I then moved to Wakefield where I intended to carry on training in TKD. I personally didn’t enjoy the TKD classes in Wakefield but I knew a few people who trained in Karate. I then started training in Karate in Wakefield and have been training ever since. I’m glad I did as that’s where I met my husband Mr Queen . I think he was intrigued how a white belt in karate could do the box splits and head high kicks .

 

What do you enjoy most about Martial Arts?

 

I enjoy learning new Katas and techniques but I think nowadays I enjoy close contact fighting and self defence. Now that we are instructors I enjoy teaching students and love to see them progressing through their belts.

 

What is your favourite Martial Art?

 

My favourite Martial Art is Wado-ryu Karate but my first love was Tae Kwon Do. I have also trained in Mu-Chindo Karate which is another style of Karate and Sai-jutsu and Bo-jutsu which are weapons. I mean who doesn’t enjoy fighting with 6 foot sticks ?

 

What is you proudest moment in Martial Arts?

 

There have been a few over the years…becoming British Hand Destruction Champion whilst at University, competing twice in the World Karate Championships in kata (and achieving 6th place once), and also achieving my 2nd Dan Black belts in Karate and Bo-jitsu. My proudest moment must be when my son and daughter graded together for their 2nd Dan and 1st Dan Black belts. It was an emotional day but I tried to keep it together!

 

What do you hope to achieve in Martial Arts in the future?

 

Our club has been open for nearly 3 years and is growing all the time. I hope to soon find a location of our own and grow our club to be even bigger and better. I can’t wait for our first Black belt student who we have taught from white belt, that will be a very special day. I also hope to be able to grade for my 3rd Dan this year.