Jo Horne

Jo Horne 1st Dan

I started training in BGK, under Sensei Derek Lorrison, when I came to Hull to study psychology in 1991. From 1992 to 1994 I held the post of social secretary, which I fulfilled in a suitably drunken manner. I was presented with a cup for Best Female Fighter 1991-1994, which meant a lot to me as it was awarded by Derek. After a one year gap from karate I rejoined the club in 1995 when my brother Dan joined. During the following years I held the posts of Secretary (1996-7), Vice-president (1997-8) and President (1998-9). I competed for the University team at the national championships on several occasions, won the BGKKA Ladies Championship in 1997 and was runner-up in 1998. I achieved my black belt in November1998 and won the Lorrison Gen Shield for 1998-1999. In 2001 I started the kids karate club, through which I have taught more than 40 children over the years (with the help of the guys when I twist their arms enough). The kids club trains on Saturday afternoons from 2.00-3.00 and takes children aged 6 to 15. It currently has 27 members, ranging from white belts to 1st kyu (the highest grade on the Junior syllabus). Outside of karate, I work as a psychology lecturer at the University.