Sensei Mary Lynn O’Neill makes history at inaugural Donegal Karate Championships

History was made in Donegal this past weekend as Sensei Mary Lynn O'Neill from Donegal School of Shotokan Karate hosted the first-ever National Donegal Karate Championships 2025, an event that not only showcased top-tier martial arts talent but also broke new ground in inclusivity and representation.

Sensei Mary, who opened her karate club in August 2023, has quickly become a trailblazer in the sport, bringing competitive karate to Donegal and the West in a way never seen before. 

What makes this championship particularly significant is that it is the first-ever woman-led national karate event in the country, highlighting the growing presence and leadership of women in martial arts.

Athletes from across the country gathered to compete in a range of categories, with a special focus on inclusivity. 

Sensei Mary ensured that this championship featured an inclusive category, a first for Donegal and the West of Ireland, allowing martial artists of all abilities to participate and showcase their skills on a national stage.

In an inspiring display of skill and dedication, Sensei Mary herself competed in the Kata division and claimed the gold medal, demonstrating her commitment not just as an organizer, but as a top competitor.

Her students also delivered outstanding performances, marking a hugely successful event for her club bringing home 22 medals! Among the highlights:

Team Kata Gold – Alan Mc Connell, Joshua MC Hugh and Andrea Laux

Team Kata Bronze – Frances O' Neill, Elena Tobandzhova and Marie Gibson. 

Family Team Kata – Niamh, Grace and Noah Onefrei

Andrea Laux – 2 Golds in Kata

Alan Mc Connell – Silver in Kata

Grace Onefrei – Silver in Kata & Silver in Kumite

Niamh Onefrei – Bronze in Kumite

Mark Myburgh – Bronze in Kata & Bronze in Kumite 

Joshua Mc Hugh – Bronze in Kata & Bronze in Kumite

Dominic Mc Hugh – Bronze in Kata

Taylor Hughes – Bronze in Kumite

Elena Tobandzhova – 2 Bronzes in Kata

Lily Bradley – Bronze in Kata

Kim Bradley – Bronze in Kata

Andrei Crosnoi – Bronze in Kata

Jacob Ferry – Bronze in Kata

Other competitors that show cased amazing talent but it wasn't their day on the podium: Cormac and Grace Devine, Borimir and Ognyan Georgiev, Fionn Mc Hugh, Oscar Ferry, Diurann Kern and Aisling Doherty.

While some competitors took home medals, the true spirit of the National Donegal Karate Championships was seen in every athlete who stepped onto the mat. 

Those who weren’t lucky enough to win this time still displayed the courage of a lion, giving their all with determination, discipline, and heart. Their resilience and fighting spirit are what truly make this championship special, and they will no doubt return even stronger next year.

Mary is extremely proud of the entire club and was beaming with joy that so many competitors from her club were by her side and others tirelessly helping her out on the day.

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Speaking after her victory, Sensei Mary shared her excitement: "When I opened my club in 2023, my goal was to create a space where everyone felt welcome, regardless of background or ability. 

“To now be standing here, hosting a national championship and winning gold myself, is beyond anything I could have imagined. This is just the beginning for karate in Donegal."

The event was met with enthusiasm from competitors and spectators alike, with many praising the high standard of competition and the welcoming atmosphere. Plans are already underway to make this an annual event, solidifying Donegal’s place on the national martial arts map.

With her passion, leadership, and dedication, Sensei Mary has not only made history but has also paved the way for future generations of martial artists in Donegal and beyond.