The story behind Master Joe Bump "A Short History"

Sensei Joe first got interested in karate while appeasing his father in the back yard of his home in Vermont.  Though just a young child, there was something interesting in what Dad had to say.  During the course of that  first "class", Joe managed to hit his father in the nose and draw blood.  Though this would not be the last time it would happen, it was the first.  In 1969, Joe was introduced to Sensei George Chartier in Laconia, NH.  The first time he worked out in the Sikaran dojo was an experience in pain, sweat and extreme admiration for the art of Sikaran Karate.  During those first years, the experiences mounted, first meeting Sensei, then meeting Master Louis Lagarejos, then watching the other black belts in training.  There were tournaments and seminars, lots of time training and without knowing it, Joe became hooked on Sikaran as a way of life. In 1976, Joe was compelled to serve his country, joining the Army and moving away from home.  Though only a young student in the Sikaran family, he took his knowledge and shared it with many people.  Classes were formed and knowledge shared throughout the world.  Joe taught in the states of Washington, Kentucky and Louisiana, as well as in the country of Germany. In 1985, Joe was assigned to recruiting duty back home in Vermont, and finally was given the opportunity to come back to the temple in New Hampshire.  Wearing a brown  belt and with very little knowledge, Joe arrived at She-Hai and started over.  During the next three years, Joe would become a Shodan and learn the art of Sikaran through Master Chartier and Grandmaster Lagarejos.  Mount Anthony Karate Center was born in 1986 and has remained since. During this time, Joe met and fell in love with the woman who would share the rest of his life with.  Joe and Lisa were married in 1987 with the Sikaran family in attendance. In 1988, Joe was once again called away.  Duty would keep him away until 1995, when he would retire from the Army after 20 years of service.  During this time, tradgety would strike.  The loss of Lisa's mom and Joe's step-father brought him home and on one occassion, personal injury almost ended his life in Sikaran.  In 1993, a swimming pool accident compressed the spinal column and discs in Joe's neck, causing temporary paralysis and pain.  18 months of therapy and doctors visits finally helped to ease the pain. Joe and Lisa returned home for good in 1995.  Five long years later, Joe decided that he couldn't live without Sikaran and once again the Mount Anthony Karate Center was opened and classes began. Joe and Lisa have 5 children, all grown and 4 grandchildren.

The young cub has grown and matured.  From the quaint beginnings as a shy and timid child, he has become the strong and respected protector.  Such is the path of those who choose it.  The trail is long and arduous, but yet is attainable to those who endure.

Black Belts

Richard Pettus     Frank Benoit April Herrmann    Kevin Cavagnero James Beaver      Gregg Browe William Buck       Mike Chapman       Leo Betit             Valerie Sacco-Smith Darrin Schnoop    Camdon Betit

For more information about Sikaran Karate in Pownal, VT or if you would like to contact Master Joe, click on the link below.  Sensei is always eager to discuss his art and to help you find your way on the path.

Master Joe Bump

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