My karate journey originally started back in 1994, at the age of 14, in Wado Ryu. With a few breaks for study and injuries, I passed my 1st Dan in 2012. Shortly afterwards an injury forced me to stop, although not sure I can blame the injury for the full 9 year gap!!

In January 2021 I contacted my local Shotokan club and so began my Shotokan journey. In June 2023 I ratified my 1st dan - a necessary step due to the differences between Wado Ryu and Shotokan styles.

I proudly oversee the marketing for Ikiru SKC as I grow my own marketing consultancy business, Hayes Marketing.