Irina Goodwin

I started at Chum Kune Do martial arts academy in May 2003 and I got into it through a scheme of new sports at my school. I found that it was something I enjoyed and could possibly excel at (which was rather astonishing and appealing considering that I had never considered myself a sporty person). What I like about it is that it is very good for your self esteem and it is something that everyone can benefit from. Not only is it useful but it is also very beautiful.

As a club there is a strong sense of being appreciated and each student is urged to fulfil their potential. I think through Chum Kune Do I have achieved a greater confidence in myself and a feeling of self worth as I have been able to help people progress. I feel that I have become a better person in that I have a greater discipline than I have ever had before and I have been able to apply this to all areas of my life and hence become a more contented person over all.

I have won:

• Chelmsford, 1st place Full Contact Kickboxing, British Championship: 04/10/03 (yellow sash)
• Kent International - 1st in Chinese kata, 3rd in female open weight light continuous fighting: 26/10/03 (yellow sash)
• European Championships at Cheltenham - 2nd in adult Chinese kata, 2nd in adult Weapons kata: 23/05/04 (blue sash)
• Kent International - 2nd in Weapons, 3rd in Chinese kata: 10/10/04 (brown sash)
• World Championships in Germany 3rd in continuous female fighting -60kg: 13/11/04 (brown sash)
• March 2005 Instructor award

By Irina Goodwin
1st Dan Black Sash