ONAKAI International Open 2017

Members from WSKF Ireland’s national association competed at the recent International Irish Open, held at the impressive National Sports Campus Blanchardstown. The well attended International saw 611 athletes from 13 countries from around the world competing for podium positions in both kata and kumite in over 48 events with an excellent range of inclusive categories.

WSKF Ireland were represented by Dylan Wallace, Lee Sheridan, Sophie Sheridan, Leigh O’Sullivan, Conor O’Sullivan, Shauna Kelly, Alex Smith, Sarah O’Reilly, Rebecca O’Reilly, Adam O’Reilly, Nathan Ryan, Zoe McDermott, Katie Phelan, Sean Phelan, Niamh Hogan, Mark Sheridan, Sorcha McCorry, Francisco Astudillo, Sam Wheeldon, Evans Yeobah and Deirdre Tapley.

There were some fantastic WSKF Ireland performances on the day in both kata and kumite. If any nerves existed – there were no “tell tale” signs revealed with some nail biting kumite events across the board. In the junior categories there were enormous displays of maturity despite some young ages. Great performances from Dylan Wallace in each round to reach the final and crowned Irish Open Champion with impressive stowick performances from Conor O’Sullivan who reachedbronze medal podium position.

Other medallists from the day: Mark Sheridan Gold Kata, Francisco Adoney Astudillo Peña Bronze Kata and Bronze Senior Kumite, Sorcha McCorry Astudillo Bronze Kumite, Sophie Sheridan Bronze Kumite, Katie Phelan Bronze Kumite and Shauna  Kelly Bronze Kata. A memorable day for all karate competitors who shared their karate experience, competitiveness, abilities and friendship.

For all photos from the day, check out our Irish International Open gallery.