A Mill Hill economics teacher has kicked her way to the top of the class after becoming a British Open karate champion.
Satwinder Narula, 30, who teaches at Copthall School, Pursley Lane, won the Knockdown Karate British Open at the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre earlier this month but only took up the sport because she wanted something more challenging.
"I have been doing karate for about seven years. I always kept physically fit but it got to the point where it wasn't challenging enough and I knew karate would push me physically and mentally," she explained.
There are many forms of karate but, as Miss Narula explains, the sport she excels in is very tough: "The object is to get your opponent down by kicking or punching and you have to wear shin guards and breast plates for women."
A third place in the European Championships and this current success against competitors from all over the world is just reward for Miss Narula's dedication training 11 hours a week prior to competition.
"I want to build on what I have just done and I want to go for the World Championships in Spain next year," she said.
Although by far the toughest teacher in the school, Miss Narula admits to not having many problems with her students.
She joked: "I cannot use my karate on the kids but they respect me for what I do.
"They would like to see me teach it but I haven't got the time at the moment."
October 23, 2001 16:17
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article