John Barrie

Like many teenagers inspired by martial arts legends, I began my journey at age 14 with the dream of becoming the next Bruce Lee. I started training in Shotokan Karate under Sensei  Tomita and Sensei Potten, dedicating four years to the art and achieving my 4th Kyu (purple belt).

Around this time, I was introduced to Ishinryu Karate—a style that emphasises shorter, more mobile stances for agility and incorporates both linear and circular techniques. I found this approach to be a more natural fit for my body and mindset compared to Shotokan’s longer, more rigid stances and focus on direct strikes and blocks. Committing to Ishinryu, I progressed to 1st Kyu (brown belt) under the guidance of Sensei Timmy Francis and Sensei Robert Crumb.

Alongside karate, I also trained, under the late great Frank Sweeney (Tony Kolwalski) in American-style kickboxing which combines western boxing techniques with eastern-style kicks. This ring-based, full-contact discipline eventually led me to Muay Thai, where I spent three years training and competing. Muay Thai deepened my understanding of striking, incorporating knees, elbows, clinch work, and throws into my repertoire.

My professional life eventually required extensive travel—often 6 to 12 months abroad—which made it difficult to commit to regular club training. Although I found opportunities to train in various gyms and dojos overseas, it never quite replicated the sense of community and purpose I had at home. I stepped away from club membership but continued to train solo whenever possible. Still, I missed being part of a dojo.

Fast forward 30 years, when my children expressed an interest in learning martial arts, I didn’t hesitate in recommending karate. In my view, karate is a complete martial art—one that builds discipline, respect, fitness, humility, and self-confidence, while also providing practical self-defence skills. From personal experience, I know these skills can make a critical difference when it counts.

After visiting several local dojos to observe their classes, we came across Luton Higashi Karate Kai. The quality of instruction and the dedication of the instructors immediately stood out. In fact, it impressed me so much that after speaking with Sensei Hurley, I couldn’t resist rejoining the martial arts world myself—this time alongside my children.

The past two years of training at Higashi have been both challenging and deeply rewarding. Thanks to the unwavering support and guidance of Sensei Hurley, Sensei Smith, and Sensei Buxton, I have recently achieved my 1st Kyu and am now working towards my 1st Dan.

Joining Luton Higashi Karate Kai has not only allowed me to share a meaningful activity with my children but has also reignited my passion for martial arts. To anyone considering starting—or restarting—their own journey, I can say with confidence: you will struggle to find a more welcoming and high-quality dojo than Luton Higashi Karate Kai.