STUDENTS from the Mizukara Karate Clubs in Newtownards and Bangor have just recorded their biggest ever medal haul at a Northern Ireland Championships, collecting an incredible 25 medals including nine gold.
At her first ever karate competition, Bella Cordner took double gold in her individual kata and individual kumite (sparring) – a brilliant achievement for any athlete. Also at their first competition, Daniel Hutteman and Peter Kelly secured gold in their individual kata and kumite respectively.
There was double gold too for Helena Stitt in kata and kumite, gold for Ben Ritchie in kumite, Sophie Hamilton in kata and Dylan McBride in kata. Dylan then added a silver in his individual kumite, a fate which was followed by first-time competitors Sophia Ryan and Heidi Magreehan in their individual kumite.
Victoria Magreehan added another silver in her kata event and was joined for more silver medals by Olivia De La Hoz in kata, Suzanne Reavy and Megan Benson in kumite and Amy Adair in kata. Amy then added a bronze in kumite.
There were bronze medals for first-timers Tyler McBride and Aoife Ryan in kumite, with Tyler adding a bronze in his kumite, followed by Rachel Brogan, Ben Ritchie and Anna McCormick in kata. Further great performances came from David Ryan, Henry Brook, Harrison Stitt and Abigail Cordner.
Team Coach David Brashaw was delighted with the performances and medal haul, commenting: “This was our best ever medal haul at the Karate Northern Ireland Championships. I could not be more pleased, especially for our first-time competition athletes that medalled.
“In fact, we were second in the overall team medal table – just behind the much bigger Ulster Karate Association. This speaks volumes for the performances of our students.”
For more details about how beginners can try out, please contact Mizukara through their Facebook page.
Mizukara Karate Clubs are supporters of inclusive play, fairness and playing the long-game. All ages will be welcomed.
If you wish to find out more about Karate, relaxing Tai Chi for adults, fitness training and self-defence classes, contact David on 07760 337578 or visit www.mizukara.co.uk.
