Letterkenny’s Gerard Foley represented Donegal and Ireland on an international stage at the inaugural Traditional Karate Chubu International Championship in Japan.
He also received training at the Japanese Karate Association headquarters in Tokyo, under Sensei Koji Chubachi, the all-Japan JKA champion of 2014.
While being immersed in the all-encompassing karate culture, Gerard also attended training in the Aichi Budokan Centre in Nagoya city before the tournament, meeting with Sensei Akamine and Sensei Kakazu.
At the tournament itslef, Gerard notched an extremely impressive fifth-placed finish, just outside the medal rankings.
“I was more than happy to have taken part no matter what,” said Gerard, “but the scores were very close between the top positions and I couldn’t have done much better on the day so no regrets at all, it was a respectable finish.”
“I’ll just have to do better next time.” After the tournament there was a large dinner held for everyone and a few drinks went round, the Japanese people treat karate very seriously, but they also know how to unwind when it’s the time.”
“Considering this was the very first time this championship was held, with around 1000 competitors, next year it should be an even bigger event, and the Letterkenny Shotokan Karate Club is already invited to it.”
For anyone interested in training Shotokan Karate and all the benefits it brings in self-defence, health, confidence and more, it doesn’t matter your age or ability, classes are held most days of the week down in the Letterkenny community centre and all are invited to join.
