Friday 26th February, 2010

Heriot-Watt PHD Student by day, World class karate fighter by night!

Calum Robb is not your usual student. The 25 year old Heriot Watt student, currently studying for a PHD in Comparative Immunology is also one of the best karate fighters in the world.

Robb, who originally comes from Haddington in East Lothian is the current World “Wado” karate Champion and World “all styles” bronze medallist. Amongst his many other titles is the British Universities champion and it is this prize that is his next concern, as he will try to retain it in Sheffield at the British Universities and Colleges (BUCS) Championships next month, where 6,000 elite student athletes will compete across 26 sports.

Last year saw Robb lead his Heriot Watt University to the team title as well as his individual win. He is looking forward to returning this year. “There was a great atmosphere with loads of students coming together and supporting their respective Universities. It is a prestigious event, gaining in quality year after year and it is great to be a part of that.”

As well as being the national University champion, Robb was also the recipient of last year’s BUCS Sports Person of the Year Award. “It’s nice to be recognised by people from outside of my own sport. Things like that make all the hard work and long hours worthwhile.”

Robb was keen to point out however that the award was not just for him and he praised the team around him. “It was for everyone who gives me continual support throughout my career, my parents and the Scholarship scheme at Herriot Watt. Without them, I would not have achieved all that I have.”

Perhaps the most important aspect of Robb’s progression through sport has been the way in which he has used it to influence his day to day life. “Karate has given me an inner focus in life. I have found this level of focus can be transferred to my studies at times like exam periods. I also have a sense of inner confidence and high self belief.”

He also believes that everyone should join a sports club when they get to University. “I know that sport is not for everyone but it brings people together from all walks of life, it creates friendships, builds confidence and can be very fulfilling when successes are achieved.

Robb acknowledges very openly the importance of the support he has been given at Herriot Watt. He has been part of their sports scholarship scheme since he began University, a fact which has benefited him in many ways. “The scholarship gives me financial help as well as access to sports science and sports medicine support. It has allowed me to progress to the highest level in my sport whilst maintaining an academic flexibility that is crucial in terms of my ongoing studies.”

Despite all the support he receives from the University, Robb still sees a future for him in sport after he leaves Herriot Watt. “I want to continue to compete and win major events. I want to win the World “All Styles” Championships. Domestically, I am aiming for 20 Scottish Championships and 10 British, I currently have 14 and seven respectively.

“When I do stop competing, I would like to become the coach of the Scottish team and also of my own karate club, training and motivating people of all ages and all grades to reach their full potential.”

By Matt Duncan