From Beginner at 63 to Black Belt Dreams: Simon’s Story
October 28, 2026
At an age when many people are enjoying a slower pace of life, 66-year-old Simon Carson is proving that it’s never too late to take on a new challenge, having started his judo journey at the age of 63.
Now working towards his green belt at Haltemprice Judo Club, Simon has embraced the physical, mental and social benefits of judo, with an ambitious long-term goal of achieving his black belt before his 80th birthday.
A lifelong martial arts enthusiast, Simon first took up Shotokan karate at the age of 14, eventually achieving his second dan black belt at 62. However, having always been fascinated by judo and its grappling techniques, he decided retirement was the perfect opportunity to explore a new discipline.
“I had always been interested in judo and had read books on the art,” Simon explained.
“I was very aware, though, that my own grappling was pretty poor and it seemed obvious that to improve I would need to train with experts!”
Despite his martial arts experience, walking into Haltemprice Judo Club for the first time was still a daunting prospect.
“I felt a little anxious in the changing room putting on a judogi, but at least I knew how to tie the belt!
“When I walked into the dojo, though, everyone was very friendly and welcoming and my age didn’t phase the coaches, even though I hadn’t revealed it in my initial phone call for fear of being told I was too old.”
With existing knee problems and concerns about keeping up with younger members, Simon initially wondered how he would cope with the physical demands of judo. However, the encouragement of his coaches and fellow judoka soon helped him find his feet.
Three years later, Simon has progressed through his red, yellow and orange belts and is preparing for his green belt grading, with each milestone bringing an enormous sense of achievement.
“When I took my 6th Kyu, red belt, grading, and passed, I was over the moon. It possibly meant more to me than my second dan in karate, probably because it is such a different skill set.”
Simon has even tested himself in competition, taking part in the York Festival of Judo against three higher-graded opponents in their twenties. Although he didn’t win any of his contests, the experience reinforced his enjoyment of the sport and the camaraderie within his club.
Beyond the technical challenges, Simon believes judo has made a significant difference to his physical and mental wellbeing, helping improve his strength, flexibility and balance while providing an opportunity to develop new friendships.
“Improving balance is a key benefit of judo, I think, especially for an older person,” he said.
“Socially, the members of Haltemprice Judo Club have become friends. It’s said to be good for older people to have friends and to socialise with younger folk, and that’s certainly a feature of my training. Age is no barrier to our banter.”
Simon has also taken on the role of Club Welfare Officer, drawing on his experience as a former secondary school headteacher to give something back to the club. Despite the occasional frustration of learning new techniques and regularly training alongside judoka several decades younger, his enthusiasm remains undiminished.
“What keeps me coming back to the mat is that I really enjoy the challenge of learning new skills, the fact that I am making progress, despite the frustration, the support and camaraderie of my club mates, positive feedback from my first rate coaches, and the exhilaration of randori.
“I look forward to every session, and leave every session on a high.”
With his sights set on eventually achieving his black belt through the technical route, Simon recognises that progress will take time. However, he is determined to continue learning and enjoying every opportunity on the mat.
And for anyone who thinks they might be too old to give judo a try, Simon has a simple message.
“They say that the best time to start learning a new skill was 10 years ago, and the second best time is today.
“For anyone thinking of starting judo in later life, my advice is do it now! You’re never too old.”
