For over 25 years I have had a huge interest in Martial Arts, training initially in Judo as a junior and then changing direction into the Chinese styles at the age of 14. At the centre of my training was the system of Wing Chun, a close quarter fighting methodology. In the mid-80’s competition fighting was the new rage, to common rules different styles met on the mat and competed. With the explosion of Martial Arts at the time, tournament circuit’s evolved and new champions crowned. I competed at quite a high level and through the type of training required for competition I studied Tae Kwon Do for some time and boxing skills training. As life moved forwards I continued coaching for several years into my mid30’s, when I took a break from Martial Arts due to work and family…..

Sometimes there is something deep inside that gives you a nudge every once in a while, a long time ago I met a man highly regarded as one of the best in self defence training, I was hungry to be a student again rather than the coach and to learn new techniques to put some of my experiences into a more direct form of self protection. Along the path we’ve become the best of mates, which has been the greater gift. So once again I’m back on the path.

Since moving to Clonakilty I have made new friends in Martial Arts, particularly Dan O’Mahony 4th Degree - Chief Instructor of Warrior Tae Kwon Do. A full time instructor teaching all ages and some highly decorated students at international level. The link above will take you to his web site for more detailed information on Tae Kwon Do in south west Cork. I have also put the link with my instructors web sit at UK Self Defence & 8th Degree Gary Stringer. Between Dan and myself we invite Gary over twice per year for open seminars on self protection, open to all and no previous martial arts experience required. Hopefully our next seminar will be in October’09, so watch this space if that’s of interest to you!

What every you training style I hope you’r having fun and I wish you all the best