This article is from page 40 of the 2007-09-25 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 40 JPG
DOZENS of young people in Shan- non have signed up to one of the newest clubs in the town – the kick- boxing team!
The club has enjoyed a huge suc- cess since it first set up two-and-a- half years ago and is now Seeking a permanent home, which it can call its own!
The club’s members currently trains at Tullyvarraga hall. However those who set it up would dearly love to have a more permanent base.
Since the club was set up, more and
more young people have taken it up and the increased demand should be reflected in the facilities available.
Howie Vincent has been a member of the Shannon Wado – Kai karate club for the past 25 years. Two-and- a-half years ago, he decided to set up the kickboxing club.
He is pleased that Tullyvarraga hall has been made available, but would like the club to have its own home.
“Tullyvarraga hall is very good but at the end of the day, it would be nice to have our own place,” he said.
“We are hopeful that we can get a place,” he said.
“Financially, you get no grants. Whatever money we get from the classes goes back into the club. We usually have a flag day in Shannon once a year. That tides us over. Peo- ple are brilliant and help us out,” he Sr nLG
Up to 40 people – aged between 11 and 60 – who attend the club regular- ly, many of who are young women.
“It has become popular in Shannon. People are looking for self-defence,” |ntemncy-B (0
“The interest has certainly in- creased among young women. A lot of girls come up for the fitness,” said
Howie, who, himself trains five days a week and has fought at internation- al level.
“I get a great buzz out of training them,” he said.
Howie, who was born in the UK and who lives in Shannon, said mar- tial arts has many benefits.
“In martial arts, you get out what you put in. It is a discipline,” he said.