Tony Heseltine

I began boxing training at the age of 18. At 21 I started to practice Aikido under Arthur Lockyear Sensei and was promoted to Sho-Dan by Tamura Sensei 8th Dan in London 5 years later. To enhance my Aikido training and gain a better knowledge of a striking art I took up Muay Thai (kickboxing), which, I practiced alongside my Aikido practice for several years.

I first practiced with Shane Riley Sensei in the early ‘80s. I found his Aikido to be dynamic and practical which reflected the way I practiced my Aikido. I began travelling to Yorkshire for tuition. This led me to open a dojo at Sherburn Village Sports Centre with the full support of Riley Sensei and practiced there for several years before moving to Hild Bede College, which is part of Durham University where we currently practice on a Monday, Wednesday and Sunday. I continue my Aikido practice with Riley Sensei but I still endeavor to practice with any high grade Aikidoka that is in the country to broaden my outlook on Aikido. I have also travelled abroad with Riley Sensei as his Uke.

I am the senior grade in the North East for the White Rose Aikikai and have Sunderland University and Seaburn dojos under my guidance. I am also a senior grading officer for the White Rose Aikikai.

I was awarded 5th Dan by Shane Riley Sensei on behalf of the White Rose Aikikai in September 2004 at the White Rose Aikikai’s 25th Anniversary.