​Karate Clubs are Denmark bound!

(Photo of recent squad session in the Emerald Ballroom). IKKI coaches for the Denmark squad: standing left, Leo Mulvany, Claire Harte, Kevin Casey and far right, Tony Dolphin.

Itosu-Kai Karatedo Ireland (IKKI), which was founded in Ballinasloe, are gearing up to head to Kolding, Denmark to compete in their International Federation karate tournament,  hosted by the Denmark branch of Itosu-Ryu Karatedo International Federation (IKIF) under the auspices of the Japanese HQ, Yokohama, Japan.

There are 50 competitors travelling to compete this August, which is a great response from the clubs. The IKKI has it’s headquarters in the Emerald Ballroom, and the association consists of nine clubs. The IKKI has competed internationally since the early eighties and coaches have been working hard with the team all year and relish the team's prospects in Denmark.

The Team consists of both male & female competitors ranging in ages from the youngest in the under 8's category to the over 55’s categories and all age categories in between. Team manager Leo Mulvany stated: “These and other events that the IKKI take part in give a fantastic opportunity for all its members to represent Ireland on the mat against and with the best in the world.”

The club are always looking for new members to come and have a go at Karate, classes for beginners will commence on Wednesday, 7th September at 7pm. You can also call into the Emerald Ballroom any Monday or Wednesday to view a class or talk to an instructor. If you are interested in joining the club you can contact Sensei Leo Mulvany on (087) 415 9858 or email him at leotmulvany@gmail.com. For more information on the IKKI Karate Association about venues and class times in your locality check out their website www.ikki.ie.