Kickboxers on form in Larne

THE sport of kickboxing reached one of its goals recently when it met all of the criteria for inclusion in the world Olympics programme in the near future.

Local kickboxing coach Michael McDermott said: “This is a goal we in kickboxing have been working towards for the past ten years since getting national recognition from the Irish Sports Council here in Ireland.

“Our goal now is the inclusion of this dynamic multi faceted sport in the Olympics and that is our next challenge.

“When that goal is achieved today’s young athletes who have been having so much success at World and European level can get real recognition for their sporting achievements.

Sligo athletes are continuing their excellent form. Michael explained: “In the meantime our local young kickboxers continue to preform superbly in competition.

“Recently 3 young athletes competed in Larne in a ring show on Friday night, while 2 competed on Sunday in Carricmacross in a floor tournament, all doing really well,” he added.

Ballymote Boxing Club athletes with local Cllr Dara Mulvey who assisted the club with their recent successful grant application from the Community Enhancement Programme in Sligo County Council. The Club were awarded €900 which will help purchase new equipment. Cllr Mulvey complimented the club’s trainers and members who volunteer their time weekly to help the local young people get fit and learn self defence skills around the South Sligo area.

Kickboxer Nora Walsh has her hand raised after a great performance in Larne.