'I began studying Goju Ryu Karate 3 and a half years ago and have recently gained my Shodan, first dan black belt. My training has given me focus and discipline in all aspects of my life. There is a fantastic atmosphere in the club, with everyone of varying abilities working together to improve their technique constantly. The tuition from Sensei Colin Pace has been instrumental in my personal success and has improved my confidence and skills with the fantastic support that he provides to all of his students. - December 2010'

Victoria Miller

I started karate with Sensei Colin Pace about four years ago. My two young sons started first and persuaded me to join, it has helped me stay fit and gives the boys a focus on achieving their belts. I would thoroughly recommend joining, either as a way to keep fit or to achieve high levels of training in self defence. In September of this year I graded as a 1st Dan black belt, something which at first seemed very daunting.

Justyn Soames

I joined Sensei Colin Pace at the Didcot Karate School in August 2010 having been with a different school for just under 3 years. I was attracted to learning Goju Ryu through its emphasis on dealing with real-life self-defence situations and because of its traditional roots. I particularly appreciate the fact that you don’t need the strength and flexibility of an international gymnast, or the high-kicking ability of Jean-Claude van Damme, as Sensei Colin Pace expertly teaches how the effective use of body mechanics, movement and close-in fighting skills are used instead; that doesn’t mean to say that I won’t keep trying for those high kicks . . . . . . . one day!

I can’t recommend the instruction of Sensei Colin Pace highly enough; all aspects of his lessons are accessible, varied and fun whilst also remaining highly focussed – a great mix, successfully achieved.

Jim Purvis PhD Managing Director

Biopharma Development Services Ltd

Mr Purvis now holds the rank of Shodan in Seiwa kai Goju Ryu after passing his test at a JKF seminar in June 2011.

I started doing judo at 14 years old, then when on to Lau Gar Kung Fu at 18, unfortunately the clubs closed. Wing Chung followed shortly after at 24, this then moved to Milton Keynes!. 26, Shotokan started in Abingdon with Sensei David Lowe and Shihan Paul Coleman.

They moved us over to Goju Ryu and this is when I felt everything click into place. I stayed here and achieved my Purple belt with Sensei Lowe. Accidents happen.... and I was forced to quit due to a hand injury. I was told not to do Karate again.

29, Connor was born, and I became a proud father. Now living in Didcot, I happened to see a poster for Goju Ryu on a wall,

so I took Connor along to see if he was interested. Shihan Paul Coleman was taking a lesson for Sensei Colin Pace.

Even after 8 years of not doing karate, I still knew most of what Shihan had engrained in me all those years ago.

Connor was hooked from day one, and so was I...again.

3 years later, both Connor (11) and I (now 40) have obtained our Shodan Black Belts in London (September 2010)

Blood, sweat and a few bruises along the way....but we both enjoy every minute of it.

So, from being told never to train again, look what has been achieved...

I have to thank Sensei Colin for not giving up on me and pushing me beyond my limits,

Shihan Paul Coleman for getting me back into the thick of it,

and Connor, who gives me a reason to keep going, no matter what.

Jason Day.