Pippa answers your questions on 'Bonfire Bonanza'...

In advance of the "Bonfire Bonanza" all-ladies live event to be held in Manchester, England on Saturday, November the 5th, champion amateur and professional wrestler Pippa L'Vinn, the event's promoter, took a few minutes to sit down and answer some questions about the site of the event, her brand new training facility.

Q: I know how hectic things must be right now, Pippa, so thank you for taking the time to speak with us. You'll be holding "Bonfire Bonanza" at your own training facility. When did you open your center?
A: The gym kicked off with the "St Georges Daymes" show in April 2005.

Q: What amenities does the facility offer?
A: Mainly a wrestling ring with other rooms kitted out with mats for training and submission wrestling. There are also various items of gym equipment for weight training, boxing, and cardio exercise. There is a shower room and changing facilities.

Q: You train both men and women?
A: Yes, all are welcome.

Q: Regarding live events such as "Bonfire Bonanza," how many fans can you accommodate? And, of course, how many shows would you like to promote per year?
A: I hope to stage around four main shows, plus a few smaller events per year. The venue could probably hold around 200 people.

Q: Do you offer it out to movie and TV studios as a filming location?
A: Yes, it's already been used by film crews and is on the books of quite a few location agencies.

Q: What's been the response you've heard to your facility?
A: I've had a great response by everyone who has been there, but we hope to keep on improving the facility all the time.

Q: Where can people find directions to your gym?
A: Directions and details can be found on my website http://www.pippalvinn.co.uk.

Q: As a student of pro wrestling...and amateur style as well...what can students learn from you?
A: I start with the very basics, which is of course how to land safely after any hold or move. Then the next would be balance and good foot work, which is a key aspect of good moves. The usual moves are introduced...very basic handling techniques like wristlocks, which when applied are deadly, but of course only when applied correctly. I believe that the little things are the most important. Remember, "you can't run before you can walk." Also, another important lesson is to respect every opponent that steps in the ring, also to respect the business never let it down or yourself. Professional at all times.

Q: How long does it take to train someone? And do you help them break into the business afterwards?
A: To train someone depends a lot on the individual, hard work and dedication. Had they done any mixed martial arts before this, such as Judo, it can be a great help. This teaches you balance, toughness and a good listening ear, etcetera. How often they can get to training on a very regular basis is a great help, not just one off's and then they think they are a wrestlers. I would like to showcase some of the trainees on my own show's then hopefully get other organizations to work with them. Then of course watch them grow in the business and be proud that my promotion gave them their start!

Q: How do you think your pupils might do competing in the USA?
A: I would not send any of my trainees anywhere unless I thought they could handle themselves and uphold the good name of English Wrestling.

Q: What is your association with the PGWA?
A: I have been involved with the PGWA for around 5 years and was PGWA champion between 2003 and 2005. Oh, and i intend to be champ again in 2006!