Luton Higashi

Houghton Regis Carnival Demonstration - 13th July 2008

Above - Luton Lunatics with Chiltern Radio

In the heady summer of 2007 the Luton Lunatics did the rounds of local village and school fetes. We had prepared a programme of demonstrations illustrating how karate skills can be useful in day-to-day life: the mugging attempt, the stolen mobile phone and surviving Friday night in A+E at the Luton and Dunstable hospital. We generated some interest and have club members, a year later, who first met us at one of these events.

Above - John taking the lesson

Club Secretary and all round good egg, Karen Tompkins, was in charge of the 2008 project which came to fruition at the Houghton Regis Carnival. She had in mind a far more intricate performance than last year's effort however:

“I want action, drama, a cast of thousands, singing, dancing and flying back kicks!”

Above - Ayushi and Doc giving Russ a friendly kick

With around two months to prepare, and the difficulties inherent in getting 15 people together in the same room at the same time, never mind moving in time, it was always going to be challenging.

Above - Alex and John manning the stand

The day dawned wet and blustery. We were on first in the main arena and then had our own area and stall. Our performance started all right but definitely improved through the day. In total, we did our demonstration six times. We also managed two open air lessons and various other demonstrations of skill. There seemed to be quite a few people interested and hopefully we will see them at the Dojo.

Above - karate people at the top of the slide

In creating a five minute routine showcasing all that karate involves; basics, blocks and counters, kata, kumite and weapons skills - and make it interesting - Karen must be applauded. We managed to stay in time with each other and the music, and from white belt to 4 th Dan, we excelled, showing what we can do and what it means to be karate-ka.

Above - karate people at the bottom of the slide

If we encourage people to have a go at Karate, we will have done a good job. But in working together and putting on a polished demonstration, we have already gained: in respect for each other.

Report by Mad Doc, below - a bit tired after the day's excitement