Karate newcomer Gerard Foley is proving that it’s never too late to start, after scooping a series of medals this month.
Gerard Foley, a member of the Letterkenny Shotokan Karate Club and a native of Dublin, started practicing Karate a few years ago.
Beginning at the age of 41, Gerard moved up the ranks quickly, earning an Orange Belt (9th Kyu), then a Red Belt (8th Kyu), and finally a Yellow Belt (7th Kyu). His next goal is to achieve a Green Belt (6th Kyu).
Recently, Gerard participated in the GB International Karate Open in Birmingham. Although he missed his flight, he persevered and went on to win a Bronze medal in the Kata event. For those who may not know, Kata in martial arts are choreographed patterns of movements or techniques that can be practiced individually or with a team.
Gerard also competed in the Kata event at a the Mayo Karate Open Championships last Saturday, where he won a Silver/Bronze medal.
Gerard keeps up his training at the Letterkenny Shotokan Karate Club at Letterkenny Community Centre.