The founder of Donegal’s first female-led martial arts club in Donegal will appear on a new RTE sports series next week.
Mary O’Neill, who is originally from Coolboy, will be on Cailíní Comhraic, a 3-part observational documentary series that shines a spotlight on the Irish women breaking boundaries in combat sports.
The series will explore the highs and lows of women at all ages and abilities as they push themselves to their limits in boxing, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and Karate.
Mary O’Neill is a third-dan sensei who opened Donegal School of Shotokan Karate in 2023.
The programme captures her intense training regimen, competitive journey, and personal growth within the male-dominated sport.
Earlier this month Mary hosted the first-ever National Donegal Karate Championships 2025. Sensei Mary ensured that this championship featured an inclusive category, a first for Donegal and the West of Ireland, allowing martial artists of all abilities to participate and showcase their skills on a national stage.
Sensei Mary herself competed in the Kata division and claimed the gold medal.
Cailíní Comhraic, is set to air on RTÉ One on Monday, March 24th, at 8pm.
Check out a preview here:
Cailíní Comhraic
