Teresa Gallagher takes bronze at the Great Britain Karate International Championship

The Letterkenny Shotokan Karate Club faced a weekend full of competition in Birmingham, where Teresa Gallagher, initially ranked lowest in her category, defied expectations by securing bronze at the Great Britain Open Karate International Championship. 

The club's contingent comprised of a small but determined team: Noah Callaghan, Teresa Gallagher, and Gerard Foley. 

The event spanned two days and attracted over 2000 participants, including several world champions, ensuring a very high level of competition. 

Participating across all disciplines, including kata (technique demonstration), Kobudo (weapons), and kumite (sparring), the LSKC team demonstrated commendable skill and dedication. 

It was Foley’s second appearance at the championship, but unlike the previous year, he did not secure any victories this time. 

For Noah Callaghan, it marked his debut on the international stage. Accompanied by his mother, Margaret, the trip was memorable as he faced higher-ranked opponents and showcased impressive skills in kumite, despite not winning. 

Teresa Gallagher’s performance was a highlight of the event. Competing internationally for the first time, she participated in kumite against former world champions and joined Foley in team events. However, it was in the individual kata category where Teresa truly excelled. 

As the lowest-ranked competitor in her group, Teresa found herself in a tiebreaker for the bronze medal. With a stellar performance of the kata "Heian Sandan," she secured the bronze, marking a significant achievement for herself and the team.