Sheila shows age is no barrier

4:20pm Thursday 22nd May 2008

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A VETERAN of the martial arts scene has passed the physical examination for the fourth Dan black belt in shotokan karate at the age of 68.

Sheila Thurlow's examination was conducted by her son Kevin Thurlow and a panel of other senior instructors at the head Dojo club of the English shotokan-ryu karate kyokai in Sidcup.

There was also success for two of her colleagues at the exams as Christine Young passed her third Dan and Christopher O'Brien collected his second.

It is the latest success for Sheila, who has demonstrated age is no barrier and provides inspiration to other pensioners and even younger adults.

Son Kevin, who was recently voted in as chairman of Britain's traditional governing body of karate, expressed his delight at her achievement.

He said: "I am very proud of mum, my black belt team and the group in general for their high standard and attitude."

Sheila started training 20 years ago and claimed her first black belt at the age of 53.

She continues to train in both karate and kobudo at her son's Dojo in Sidcup as well as teaching at her own Dojo in Bexleyheath.

For more information on training in traditional shotokan karate in Bexleyheath or Sidcup, visit eskkshotokan.org.uk or call Kevin Thurlow on 01322 614556.