THE Treaty City was in fighting form this past weekend when it played host to the ITO International Championships.
The championships, held at the Strand Hotel in the heart of Limerick City, saw hundreds flock to Shannonside to see the fighting fit competitors battle it out in the discipline of Tang Soo Do.
The competition attracted competitors from across Europe and the UK, including fighters from Ireland, Belgium, Holland, Wales, Scotland, and England. Competitors also came from further afield from the likes of Boston, New York, Philadelphia, and Atlantic City, in the USA.
The international event was hosted by the Munster Martial Arts school under the watchful eye of Master Pat Forde.
The school is no stranger to international success itself, having accumulated hundreds of medals in international and world championships across eight countries.
According to the Tang Soo Do master, students of the local club “relished the opportunity to compete” at international level competition on their doorstop.
Many of the world’s top grand masters in Tang Soo Do also came to support the drive to to bring international martial arts to Limerick.
One visiting master and medal winner at the tournament, Darlene Coleman from the USA, took to Facebook to celebrate the success of the event, saying that “some moments from Limerick are etched in my mind forever – the camaraderie, the shared laughter, the nerves before stepping onto the mat, and the triumph as I clinched first place”.
“The martial arts community in Limerick welcomed me with open arms and together we created memories that will last a lifetime.
“Travelling to Limerick was more than a physical journey, it was a soul-stirring adventure that taught me the profound impact of cultural exchange.
“Now, as I look back, I can confidently say that this was the best time of my life. The people, the place, and the pursuit of excellence in Tang Soo Do blended together to create an unparalleled chapter. It’s not just about the victory, it’s about the journey and the relationships forged along the way.”
Tang Soo Do Master Pat Forde and the Munster Martial Arts school host regular classes at Rollerjam (Ballysimon Road), Newcastle West, and Hospital, and are calling on new members to get on the mat. Anyone interested can contact the school through Facebook or by phone on 087 236 6866.
