IT WAS ALL systems go for the Three Rivers Shotokan club in Lifford as they returned to Dublin on Saturday to compete in the IKKU (Irish Kenpo Karate Union) invitational.
Five members of the squad traveled and as normal stood proudly on the podium in this kumite only event. Jamie-lee Simpson, Emma Dolan and Ciarán Crawford all took gold in their groups with Natasha Doherty securing silver in another successful outing.
Picture caption: Natasha Doherty, Emma Dolan Ciarán Crawford and Jamie-Lee Simpson with Sara Martin Sensei. Picture by Máirtín Mac Crábhagáin
Sunday seen Sara Martin travel to Dublin along with Head Coach Martin McNamee as Sara was about to be put through her paces in her black belt grading under the watchful eye of JKS (Japan Karate Shotorenmei) Chief Instructor Kagawa Shihan 8th Dan.
Not only did Sara, who began practicing Karate 5 years ago at the age of 12, pass her grading she was awarded best female on the day which is testament to the dedication she gives to her chosen sport and lifestyle.
Martin McNamee who started The Three Rivers club almost 10 years ago was delighted with his student as she made history becoming the first club member to be awarded the coveted black belt and believes she will continue to inspire the younger Karatekas in the club who look up to her to put in the same work to achieve their goals.
