Hey guys, guess what? Dingwall Kickbox Karate (DKBK), a martial arts centre in Dovercourt, has just undergone a major renovation! The club, founded by Chief Instructor Lee Dingwall, has been a part of the Harwich and Dovercourt Martial Arts Association since its inception. They are also proud members of the British Combat Association. Now, let me tell you all about their amazing journey.
Back in 1996, Lee and his buddies took on a run-down building and transformed it into the fantastic dojo it is today. It wasn’t until 1997 that they revamped the interior, with the council taking care of the plumbing and electrics. During the renovation period, the club had to train at alternative locations. But hey, good things come to those who wait, right? And boy, was it worth the wait!
DKBK specializes in Wadō-ryū, a traditional Japanese karate style known for its powerful punches. But that’s not all – they also incorporate ground fighting, locks, holds, self-defence techniques, and traditional strikes. Talk about a well-rounded martial arts experience!
Now, let’s talk about the recent renovations. The club managed to save up enough money to give their dojo a much-needed facelift. And let me tell you, it looks absolutely amazing! The dojo is fully matted and air-conditioned, providing the perfect training environment for all the aspiring martial artists out there.
But why the renovation, you ask? Well, during the pandemic, DKBK faced a bit of a setback. As a contact sport, they were one of the last to resume activities. And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t miss the thrill of punching and kicking after such a long break? The club saw a decline in numbers, and that’s when Lee and Carolyn, one of the instructors, decided to make a change. They decided to focus on one night of training per week to accommodate their other commitments.
During the lockdown, Harwich Town Council showed their support by waiving the rent. However, DKBK still had to cover the standing charges for electricity and water rates. Once they were up and running again, the club happily resumed paying rent to the council. It’s great to see such a supportive community!
And here’s another reason to celebrate – DKBK recently held their latest grading, and all seven pupils passed with flying colours! Let’s give a round of applause to Jasper Cooke, Axel Townsend, Abel Townsend, Jayden Kett, Harry Glen-Barber, Taylor Warner, and Thomas Porter for their hard work and dedication. They all advanced to the next belt level – what an achievement!
So, if you’re looking to kickstart your martial arts journey or get back into the groove, Dingwall Kickbox Karate is the place to be. With their newly renovated dojo and a team of dedicated instructors, you’ll be sure to have an incredible experience. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to unleash your inner warrior!
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