The recently formed Donegal School of Shotokan Karate picked a huge 15 medal haul at the recent Ulster WUKF Championships.
With a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation, the team faced off against seasoned competitors who had already national and international titles.
Sensei Mary O’Neill is only new to the competition scene. Against all expectations, she stunned her opponents, taking home Gold in both categories of Senior Female Kata and silver in Team Kata.
Donegal School of Shotokan Karate had entrants from kids to senior citizens.
Team Kata Silver winners were Caitriona Ferry, Alan McConnell and Mary O’Neill.
Team Kata Bronze included Frances O’Neill, Marie Gibson and Danielle Byrne.
Other winners included:
Oscar Ferry : Silver Kumite
Fionn McHugh: Bronze Kumite
Danielle Byrne: Bronze Team Kata, Bronze Kumite
Caitriona Ferry: Silver Team
Alan Mc Connell: Silver Team Kata, Bronze Individual Kata, Bronze Kumite
Chris Lubbinge: Silver Kumite
Elena Tabandzhova: Bronze Veteran Kata
Mary O’Neill: Gold Senior Kata, Gold Senior Veteran Kata, Silver Team Kata
And also to Clare Risely, Hanna Zherdieva, Jacob Ferry and Borimir Georgiev for their bravery but just missed out on the day.
Sensei Mary O’Neill with some of the younger medal winners.
“What makes this achievement even more remarkable is the fact that many of the club’s beginners managed to outshine black belts and brown belts, showcasing their raw talent and unwavering commitment to the sport,” Sensei Mary O’Neill said.
“Despite their lack of experience, these novice karateka fearlessly took on their more seasoned counterparts and emerged triumphant. The victory of this new club serves as a testament to the power of dedication, teamwork, and perseverance. Against all odds, they have proven that with passion and hard work, anything is possible. Their success sends a powerful message to aspiring athletes everywhere: no dream is too big, and no challenge is too daunting.”
