Our new Website will feature Cork’s top martial artists,
CMAP “Hall of Fame”and CMAP “Competitor of the Tournament” award winners.
click on pictures to enlarge
Cork Kickboxing on top of the world
Grand Master C.K. Choi,
9th Degree Taekwon-Do pioneer
Cork Seminar
News & Events
2010 Cork I.T.A Championships
more info here
2009 - Founding of CMAP
more info here
more info here
more info here
2010 Kendo Irish National Championship
more info here
Battle of Kinsale - 2010 - Awards
more info here
New CMAP Logo
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Cork Martial Arts Promotions Team
more info here
CMAP at the Cork Summer Show 2010
more info here
Karate Kid Promotion
more info here
WOMAA World Games XI
more info here
Back from Hong Kong
more info here
Siam Warriors Muay Thai Camp
more info here
Success for James Dwyer
more info here
The first stage of the competition had a welcome surprise for Dominic, after making his weight he discovered he had been
given a walk over in the first fight. His second fight took place the next day he came up against an experienced Hungarian
south paw. As is Dominic's style, it took the first round for the Irish fighter to properly settle into the fight and by the start of
the second round he had started to dominate the fight. In the third round he closed the fight, winning convincingly and looking
fresher than ever, a testament to his impressive fitness levels.
On the third day of fighting he came up against the Russian National champion. Entering into this match more determined
than ever he stopped the Russian in the second round with a swift side kick to the jaw. The Russian was reluctant to continue
and the win, deservedly, went to Dominic. On the fourth and final day of fighting Dominic was drawn up against the silver
medallist Croatian National Champion for the semi final. He steamed through the fight and won each round, winning the
overall fight unanimously, taking him through to the final.
The final was held later that same day. After three fights that appeared not to faze the strong Irish fighter this appeared to be
the only fight that may prove to be of some difficulty to him. The only thing that now stood between him and the Gold was the
Croatian National Champion. The Croatian had been tipped to be the over-all winner of the competition, but as calm and as
determined as ever, Dominic took to the mat to face him. The first round proved to be tough with the
Croatian seeming to be ahead, but as Dominic's supporters are well aware, the first round was
merely a warm-up. By the start of the second round Dominic began to open up and by the middle of
the second round he had dropped the Croatian with a fast left hand to the jaw. The Croatian,
however, was just as determined, and got back up to continue the fight. Unluckily for him, at this
point, there would be no stopping the Irish fighter with his eyes set on the prize. Dominic steamed through the second and third
round, answering everything the Croatian threw at him with combinations that's were twice as fast, and that hit the mark every time.
He won convincingly, with not just the Irish but many other international teams cheering him on, and finally had the gold he had
deserved for so long.
This is undoubtedly not the last we will hear of the skilled Cork fighter, this gold is only the beginning, and Dominic Stephenson is a
name that will be around in the fighting world for a long time.
Dominic Stephenson wins Gold
at the W.A.K.O Junior World Championships, Serbia.
Dominic Stephenson wins Gold
more info here
Coach of the Year 2010
Pictured left to right
Leonard Coughlan, Mr. Ken Leahy
CMAP award to Mr. Ken Leahy from Turners Cross
Dylan Fitzgibbon
Taekwon-Do Black Belt student of Turners Cross Taekwon-Do Academy
The presentation of the 2010 Cork Martial Arts Promotions
"Coach of the Year" award to Mr. Ken Leahy instructor of the Turners Cross Taekwon-Do Academy took
place in the Duchesse room of the Imperial Hotel, Cork City on the 23rd of December.
Taekwon-Do Black Belt Dylan Fitzgibbon, a student of turners cross Taekwon-Do Academy under the guidance of Mr.
Ken Leahy, has been going from strength to strength over the last number of years. Two of his high lights have been the
2009 -63 World Junior Title and the 2010 -63 European Cup Junior Crown.
In November 2009, Dylan travelled to Argentina to represent Ireland in the World ITF Taekwon-Do Championships. This
was Dylan's first World Championships, he flew through his first two matches against an American and then an
Argentina fighter who was the host country's favourite to win. Next was a Jamaican whose long front leg made Dylan's
distance style difficult, but in the first 30 seconds Dylan realised this and naturally switched it to close range combat.
In the semi-finals he meet a strong Slovenian fighter, where he was able to return to his own style, the Slovenian was
relentless and kept pressuring him and pushing him to his limits. But in the end his combination of lead leg sidekick and
blitz punching gave him 4-0 win.
Germany was on the cards for the final, Dylan's confidence was high and his aggressive lead leg side kick started the
fight, it was clear however that the German had experience in defending against this, Dylan then began faking to the
body with a side kick before bringing it up for the head shot. The German fighter was kept on his toes had to defend all
angles as he was pushed back with a wide range of kicks. Before it could register what had happened Dylan was
standing on the podium, gold medal around his neck and the Irish national anthem playing.
This was an impressive World debut for a young man from Cork.
Then in October 2010 Dylan travelled to Slovakia for the European ITF Taekwon-Do cup. With hard training and a proper diet, he was more ready than ever.
Coming up against Norway in the first round and having a history against this fighter made it a comfortable first fight for him. The next round against
England, Dylan's new found experience shone through with his perfect timing of his blitz, which destroyed the English fighter's game plan.
In the quarter-finals against a Polish fighter with a very similar style made this fight very relaxing for Dylan, as he won every encounter and left the
challenger face down on the mat in most occasions.
Next was a case of deja vu with Slovenia in the semi-final again, but this time a new fighter, lighter and faster. Dylan dominated the sparring and forced the
Slovenian to back away and get caught in the corner every time, another win under his belt.
Dylan was moving on to the final, but unfortunately he had picked up an extremely painful knee injury against the Slovenian. He did all he could to get back
to 100% before the final. But before he knew it, the lights were pointing down on him, it was the finals night and a very talented young fighter from Greece
stood before him. Dylan focused on using his strong side kick and following with his hands, this made a knockout combination to give him a 4-0 lead heading
into the final round. He clearly wanted it more in the last round and came from all angles with speed to dominate the final.
This has made Dylan hungry for more and is aiming to retain his world title in New Zealand in March 2011.
Coach of the Year 2010
more info here
Dylan Fitzgibbon
more info here
Sunday 20th February saw the 9th year of the Irish Taekwon-
Do Association's Open Championships. This was its first year
at the new location Neptune stadium. Indicative of the strict
discipline involved in this sport; the day started exactly at
10am as scheduled. All six competition rings were run
efficiently throughout the day by the 75 umpires organised for
the event. Twenty clubs from all over the country supported
the Championships, which was described as the highlight of
the year for many of the attendees. The calibre of Taekwon-
Do training here in Cork was well represented, and the overall
club of the day went to Cork Instructor Mr. Pat Barry 6th
degree of North Mon and Carrigaline. This club came away as
the clear winner, securing 72 points on the day; with the
national team coach Mr. Steven Cooley coming in second with
50 points. The tournament was considered a fantastic
success by all who attended.
Cork ITA Open Championships 2011
West Cork Kickboxing Fight Night Extravaganza
Mr. Ian Kingston of West Cork Kickboxing club hosted the fight night held at
West Lodge Hotel, Bantry on Saturday February 26th.
The event attracted kickboxing instructors from all over Cork and Kerry. The main stage, around which the night was centered, was floodlit to ensure the
spectators missed none of the excellent displays in the ring. The night began with demonstration bouts from junior competitors, which were the perfect
prelude to the host of Irish, European and World Champions, who later took to the ring. The high standard of undercard fights on the night were proof of the
excellent training received from their coaches Colin O'Shaughnessy and Kevin O'Sullivan. This extravaganza is organised to raise funds for the continuation
of the West Cork Club and to strengthen its profile in the local community. The success of the night in this regard is evident in the large number of local
businesses who sponsored the event.
Cork Martial Arts Promotions (CMAP) was the sponsor of the prize for 'the most outstanding competitor' on the night.
Many of the fights on the night were hotly contested, with split decisions proving that the high standard of
competitors made it extremely difficult to chose winners, and therefore to pick the most outstanding performance.
All coaches had a vote on this overall awards and the final event between current WAKO world champion Tony
Stevenson and Hugh Harris was chosen as the most outstanding fight of the night. Hugh Harris fights out of the
Tralee Schools of Martial Arts under Chief Instructor Mr. Mike Allen. Special mention must be made of the
contest between Toby Bermeuller and Cormac O'Conner, Toby is the current Irish Full Contact Champion, there
fight was placed as the second best match of the night. Tony Stephenson won most outstanding performance
due to his spectacular kicking displays. The prize for most outstanding performance sponsored by Cork Martial
Arts Promotions (CMAP) was presented by PRO Leonard Coughlan.
CMAP would like to wish the best of luck to all competitors taking part in the Irish Open International Kickboxing
Championships, taking place in City West, next weekend.
West Cork Kickboxing Fight Night Extravaganza
more info here
Cork ITA Open Championship 2011
more info here
Siam Warriors
Muay Thai Superfight
Saturday 16th April 2011 - Neptune Stadium
Dylan Fitzgibbon of Turners Cross Taekwon-Do
Academy has retained his -63kg junior sparring title.
This victory in New Zealand sees Fitzgibbon return to
Irish shores a champion, just as he did following his
win two years ago in Argentina.
To win a World title once is a huge achievement in
itself, but to retain it is a feat attainable by only the
greatest athletes in the world. Constant attention to
detail and a great mind under pressure are some of
the qualities, which must be the ingredients of his
recipe for success.
To continue with that analogy, the icing on this championship cake is Dylan’s ability to listen to
his instructor and coaches, as he pursues his opponents in
the ring. Championship material indeed, Dylan continues his
winning streak on the domestic market with numerous
national titles to his credit. He is certainly not afraid to train
hard, and outside of Taekwon-Do he compliments his
training with running and kickboxing. Champions are made
of hard work, dedication and experience and these are the
attributes of Mr. Fitzgibbon. When he travels to these
national and international events and wins, as he naturally
does, he always keeps his feet on the ground and his head
in the discipline of his training. While we hear he does like to
celebrate occasionally, he is quick to begin the preparations for the next challenge.
Dylan’s instructor and friend Mr. Ken Leahy told us,
“I am proud and privileged to have such a talented ambassador for Turners Cross Taekwon-Do
Academy in Mr. Fitzgibbon, we are very proud of his achievements, and on behalf of all the
members I wish him every success in the future.”
The greater Cork Martial Arts Community agrees whole
heartedly with these sentiments and applauds Mr. Fitzgibbon
as a worthy representative of Cork. This is certainly cause for
a celebration cake. We will be keeping a close eye on Mr.
Fitzgibbon, as he is sure to bring plenty more honour and glory
to the Cork Martial Arts scene.
Fitzgibbon retains World Junior Title
Fitzgibbon retains World Junior Title
more info here
Siam Warriors - Muay Thai Superfight Event
more info here
SIAM Warriors - Muay Thai Superfights
Neptune stadium
Saturday 16th April 2011
CMAP arrived to Neptune stadium on Saturday afternoon to set up our display stand, and begin our coverage of the night's
events. We were greeted by Mr. Martin Horgan, of 'SIAM Warriors Gym', Nicholas Well Lane, Blarney Street, Cork. Martin
handed us some 'access all areas' passes, and, after filling us in on the plans for the night, he left us to set up our display.
Thanks to Martin for allocating us a prime location at the main door, and ring side VIP entrance. Soon enough, as the doors
were opened, Martin passed by and we took the opportunity to wish him the very best for the coming night. He replied "I
hope a few people will turn up," as he hurriedly went on with the organisation. Later the memory of his comment made me
laugh, as I looked around Neptune stadium to see every single seat, of the 1600 available, was in use, and at least two
rows of spectators were standing watching from outside that security barriers, because there literally wasn't a seat left in the
house.
The night progressed with the seventeen fights on the night each proving to be better than the last. Fight number '7' was
billed as super prestige 'A' class between Cork man, Seamus Cogan of Spartan 'Muay Thai,' Ballincollig versus Panicos
Yousif fighting out of 'Stockport Thai Fighters,' UK, this was a gruelling 5 x 3 minute round fight. To the last seconds both fighters put all their skills and energy
into the competition. The excitement was marred with just a hint of disappointment for the home crowd, when the judges returned a victory for the visiting fighter
Panicos Yousif. The next fight made me wonder if the promoter Martin Horgan had some kind of clairvoyant
powers; how did he foresee when putting the next fight on the cards that it was just perfect to pick up the spirits of
the Cork spectators. Two young fighters, both from Cork, stepped into the ring for what was for me personally one
of the best fights of the night; Sean Clancy of 'Siam Warriors Gym' took the victory from Craig Bowles fighting out
of 'Seanscoil Gym.' Even though this was billed as a domestic fight, with no titles or great honours for the winner,
these two young Cork men brought a sense of honour and glory with them. From the moment they stepped in the
ring, and more especially from the sound of the bell, the crowd were given a match that had all the components of
a main event fight.
In the billed main event of the night, Jordan Watson fighting out of 'Bad Company' UK, showed some
devastating kicking power in his clash with French fighter Cedric Muller. The move of the night came from the
French man; Watson grabbed Muller's ankle following an attempted front kick. Watson looked to have the match
in his hands, as he backed his opponent up seeming about to sweep him to the mats. Suddenly Muller back hit
the corner post, as if it was a move practiced in the training gym, he hooked his arms over the ropes, and then, in
what I can only describe as a drop kick, he hit the Englishman's square in the face with what had previously been
his standing leg. However, the move, which could have been plucked straight out of the movies, did little to change the momentum of the fight. The judges
handed the Englishman the win and the title.
The night was a great success; one of the best Martial Arts Shows cases I have ever attended in Cork or Ireland for the matter. Well done to Martin Hogan and
his team from 'SIAM Warriors Gym;' from all of us here at Cork Martial Arts Promotions we can not wait for the next Muay Thai Ring Show.
Picture Gallery of the Event
more info here
Siam Warriors - Muay Thai Superfight
more info here
1st Bushido Cork Munster Open
1st Bushido Cork Munster Open
12th June 2011
To celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Bushido Martial Arts Cork we would like to invite you to the 1st Bushido Cork Munster
Open on June 12th in Cork Institute of Technology, Bishopstown, Cork.
We have sections for Novices, Intermediates and Advanced so people are able to compete with those of a similar level. We
have light and semi contact sections.
We also have a Men's Open weight with a minimum cash prize of €300
Women's Open Weight with a minimum cash prize of €100.
Registration is 9.30 to 10.30
Online registration will be online soon on www.entr.ie
Entry Fees
Juniors 1 section €15 2 sections €25 3 sections €30
Adults 1 section €20 2 sections €30 3 sections €35
Open Weight €25
Family Price: no family will pay more than €60
Notes
A person who is over 16 may compete in u17 and Adult.
A person can fight Novice and Intermediate or Intermediate and Advanced. You cannot compete in Novice and Advanced.
If you need any further information please do not hesitate to contact Colin O'Shaughnessy
on 0871326600
The 2011 C.M.A.P Coach of the year award was presented to Mr. Martin Horgan, of Siam Warriors
Muay Thai Gym, Nicholas Well Lane, Blarney Street, Cork City.
On Saturday 14th of January 2012 the Cork Martial Arts Promotions (C.M.A.P.) team, of Conleth O
Connor, Trevor Fradgley, and myself, Leonard Coughlan, were making our way to Blarney Street, for
the Coach of the Year award ceremony. When we got close to our destination I stopped into a local
shop to ask for directions to Nicholas Well Lane. The young lady behind the counter had never heard
of it. "I'm looking Siam Warriors, it's a Muay Thai…. and before I could finish my sentence, "Oh
Martin's place, it's just around the corner" she interrupted, as she pointed up the street. It seems
Martin is known better around here than the street names.
A few minutes later we pulled into the car park, and, as we stepped out of the our car and looked
around, there were no signs to direct us to the club, but the three of us where in no doubt that we
were at the right place. We recognised the sounds of pads being hit, and the hum and buzz of
accompanying grunts, so we followed the sounds of training right to the door of the gym. When we
stepped through the door it was as if we had stepped off a plane into a different country. The training
session was in full flight, there was a raised boxing ring to our left with two sets of training partners
hard at work, one of the fighters unleashed a volley of kicks to his partner's pads that felt like it shook
the room. In front of the ring was a fully matted training area with two walls of punch bags; all active
with men punching, kicking and kneeing them powerfully. In the middle of the mats were a number of
fighters working individually on their techniques; elbows twisting down, jumping knees getting to
heights that pro basketball player would be proud of. I could not help but think back to my childhood,
those movies I watched as a young boy, Kick boxer and Blood sport, because to me this felt like we
had stepped on the set of a movie, and this movie was being filmed on location in Thailand. This,
however, was no movie, better yet, this was not even a big international fight night, this was a
Saturday afternoon training session in Cork City.
Just then the man we were there to see, Martin Horgan, called a break to the training session, and
walked over to welcome us to his gym. The team set up the CMAP banners for the presentation, and
I took the time to explain to the gym members, why we were there, and why I was interrupting their
training. I explained that we were there to present Martin with the CMAP coach of the year award,
and such a presentation was only possible because of the hard work from all competitors, and other
coaches, from Siam Warriors throughout the year, and so this was also a club award.
After the official presentation, on behalf of Cork Martial Arts Promotions, of the 2011 C.M.A.P Coach
of the year award to Mr. Martin Horgan, we spoke again to Martin about the history of his gym and
his fighters. He told us that a number of his guys were in Thailand training and fighting with some of
the sports best people, among them, his own nephew Aaron O Callaghan who recently won a
number of high profile fights. During our conversation Martin said something that I think will stay with
me for ever, as not only a perfect summation of Martin Horgan, a coach who wants to train to the
highest level and not just pick up titles, but as a great quote for the sport.
"Fighters must sometimes lose, to know they are fighting the best."
We thanked Martin and his guys for their time, and wished them all the best for 2012, as we stepped
back through that door, and the echo of pads being hit, resumed.
Report by Mr. Leonard Coughlan P.R.O Cork Martial Arts Promotion
CMAP Coach of the Year 2011
more info here
CMAP Coach of the Year 2011
Pictured left to right
Martin Horgan & Leonard Coughlan
Pictured above
Siam Warriors members
Siam Warriors
Presents Muay Thai Fight Night
Neptune Stadium Saturday 25th February 2012
Doors 5.00pm Tickets €30 Ringside €33
more info here
Siam Warriors - Fightnight
Coach of the Year 2010
Pictured left to right
Leonard Coughlan, Mr. Ken Leahy
CMAP award to Mr. Ken Leahy from Turners Cross
Dylan Fitzgibbon
Taekwon-Do Black Belt student of Turners Cross Taekwon-Do Academy
The presentation of the 2010 Cork Martial Arts Promotions
"Coach of the Year" award to Mr. Ken Leahy instructor of the Turners Cross Taekwon-Do Academy took
place in the Duchesse room of the Imperial Hotel, Cork City on the 23rd of December.
Taekwon-Do Black Belt Dylan Fitzgibbon, a student of turners cross Taekwon-Do Academy under the guidance of Mr.
Ken Leahy, has been going from strength to strength over the last number of years. Two of his high lights have been the
2009 -63 World Junior Title and the 2010 -63 European Cup Junior Crown.
In November 2009, Dylan travelled to Argentina to represent Ireland in the World ITF Taekwon-Do Championships. This
was Dylan's first World Championships, he flew through his first two matches against an American and then an
Argentina fighter who was the host country's favourite to win. Next was a Jamaican whose long front leg made Dylan's
distance style difficult, but in the first 30 seconds Dylan realised this and naturally switched it to close range combat.
In the semi-finals he meet a strong Slovenian fighter, where he was able to return to his own style, the Slovenian was
relentless and kept pressuring him and pushing him to his limits. But in the end his combination of lead leg sidekick and
blitz punching gave him 4-0 win.
Germany was on the cards for the final, Dylan's confidence was high and his aggressive lead leg side kick started the
fight, it was clear however that the German had experience in defending against this, Dylan then began faking to the
body with a side kick before bringing it up for the head shot. The German fighter was kept on his toes had to defend all
angles as he was pushed back with a wide range of kicks. Before it could register what had happened Dylan was
standing on the podium, gold medal around his neck and the Irish national anthem playing.
This was an impressive World debut for a young man from Cork.
Then in October 2010 Dylan travelled to Slovakia for the European ITF Taekwon-Do cup. With hard training and a proper diet, he was more ready than ever.
Coming up against Norway in the first round and having a history against this fighter made it a comfortable first fight for him. The next round against
England, Dylan's new found experience shone through with his perfect timing of his blitz, which destroyed the English fighter's game plan.
In the quarter-finals against a Polish fighter with a very similar style made this fight very relaxing for Dylan, as he won every encounter and left the
challenger face down on the mat in most occasions.
Next was a case of deja vu with Slovenia in the semi-final again, but this time a new fighter, lighter and faster. Dylan dominated the sparring and forced the
Slovenian to back away and get caught in the corner every time, another win under his belt.
Dylan was moving on to the final, but unfortunately he had picked up an extremely painful knee injury against the Slovenian. He did all he could to get back
to 100% before the final. But before he knew it, the lights were pointing down on him, it was the finals night and a very talented young fighter from Greece
stood before him. Dylan focused on using his strong side kick and following with his hands, this made a knockout combination to give him a 4-0 lead heading
into the final round. He clearly wanted it more in the last round and came from all angles with speed to dominate the final.
This has made Dylan hungry for more and is aiming to retain his world title in New Zealand in March 2011.
Coach of the Year 2010
more info here
Dylan Fitzgibbon
more info here
Sunday 20th February saw the 9th year of the Irish Taekwon-
Do Association's Open Championships. This was its first year
at the new location Neptune stadium. Indicative of the strict
discipline involved in this sport; the day started exactly at
10am as scheduled. All six competition rings were run
efficiently throughout the day by the 75 umpires organised for
the event. Twenty clubs from all over the country supported
the Championships, which was described as the highlight of
the year for many of the attendees. The calibre of Taekwon-
Do training here in Cork was well represented, and the overall
club of the day went to Cork Instructor Mr. Pat Barry 6th
degree of North Mon and Carrigaline. This club came away as
the clear winner, securing 72 points on the day; with the
national team coach Mr. Steven Cooley coming in second with
50 points. The tournament was considered a fantastic
success by all who attended.
Cork ITA Open Championships 2011
West Cork Kickboxing Fight Night Extravaganza
Mr. Ian Kingston of West Cork Kickboxing club hosted the fight night held at
West Lodge Hotel, Bantry on Saturday February 26th.
The event attracted kickboxing instructors from all over Cork and Kerry. The main stage, around which the night was centered, was floodlit to ensure the
spectators missed none of the excellent displays in the ring. The night began with demonstration bouts from junior competitors, which were the perfect
prelude to the host of Irish, European and World Champions, who later took to the ring. The high standard of undercard fights on the night were proof of the
excellent training received from their coaches Colin O'Shaughnessy and Kevin O'Sullivan. This extravaganza is organised to raise funds for the continuation
of the West Cork Club and to strengthen its profile in the local community. The success of the night in this regard is evident in the large number of local
businesses who sponsored the event.
Cork Martial Arts Promotions (CMAP) was the sponsor of the prize for 'the most outstanding competitor' on the night.
Many of the fights on the night were hotly contested, with split decisions proving that the high standard of
competitors made it extremely difficult to chose winners, and therefore to pick the most outstanding performance.
All coaches had a vote on this overall awards and the final event between current WAKO world champion Tony
Stevenson and Hugh Harris was chosen as the most outstanding fight of the night. Hugh Harris fights out of the
Tralee Schools of Martial Arts under Chief Instructor Mr. Mike Allen. Special mention must be made of the
contest between Toby Bermeuller and Cormac O'Conner, Toby is the current Irish Full Contact Champion, there
fight was placed as the second best match of the night. Tony Stephenson won most outstanding performance
due to his spectacular kicking displays. The prize for most outstanding performance sponsored by Cork Martial
Arts Promotions (CMAP) was presented by PRO Leonard Coughlan.
CMAP would like to wish the best of luck to all competitors taking part in the Irish Open International Kickboxing
Championships, taking place in City West, next weekend.
West Cork Kickboxing Fight Night Extravaganza
more info here
Cork ITA Open Championship 2011
more info here
Siam Warriors
Muay Thai Superfight
Saturday 16th April 2011 - Neptune Stadium
Dylan Fitzgibbon of Turners Cross Taekwon-Do
Academy has retained his -63kg junior sparring title.
This victory in New Zealand sees Fitzgibbon return to
Irish shores a champion, just as he did following his
win two years ago in Argentina.
To win a World title once is a huge achievement in
itself, but to retain it is a feat attainable by only the
greatest athletes in the world. Constant attention to
detail and a great mind under pressure are some of
the qualities, which must be the ingredients of his
recipe for success.
To continue with that analogy, the icing on this championship cake is Dylan’s ability to listen to
his instructor and coaches, as he pursues his opponents in
the ring. Championship material indeed, Dylan continues his
winning streak on the domestic market with numerous
national titles to his credit. He is certainly not afraid to train
hard, and outside of Taekwon-Do he compliments his
training with running and kickboxing. Champions are made
of hard work, dedication and experience and these are the
attributes of Mr. Fitzgibbon. When he travels to these
national and international events and wins, as he naturally
does, he always keeps his feet on the ground and his head
in the discipline of his training. While we hear he does like to
celebrate occasionally, he is quick to begin the preparations for the next challenge.
Dylan’s instructor and friend Mr. Ken Leahy told us,
“I am proud and privileged to have such a talented ambassador for Turners Cross Taekwon-Do
Academy in Mr. Fitzgibbon, we are very proud of his achievements, and on behalf of all the
members I wish him every success in the future.”
The greater Cork Martial Arts Community agrees whole
heartedly with these sentiments and applauds Mr. Fitzgibbon
as a worthy representative of Cork. This is certainly cause for
a celebration cake. We will be keeping a close eye on Mr.
Fitzgibbon, as he is sure to bring plenty more honour and glory
to the Cork Martial Arts scene.
Fitzgibbon retains World Junior Title
Fitzgibbon retains World Junior Title
more info here
Siam Warriors - Muay Thai Superfight Event
more info here
SIAM Warriors - Muay Thai Superfights
Neptune stadium
Saturday 16th April 2011
CMAP arrived to Neptune stadium on Saturday afternoon to set up our display stand, and begin our coverage of the night's
events. We were greeted by Mr. Martin Horgan, of 'SIAM Warriors Gym', Nicholas Well Lane, Blarney Street, Cork. Martin
handed us some 'access all areas' passes, and, after filling us in on the plans for the night, he left us to set up our display.
Thanks to Martin for allocating us a prime location at the main door, and ring side VIP entrance. Soon enough, as the doors
were opened, Martin passed by and we took the opportunity to wish him the very best for the coming night. He replied "I
hope a few people will turn up," as he hurriedly went on with the organisation. Later the memory of his comment made me
laugh, as I looked around Neptune stadium to see every single seat, of the 1600 available, was in use, and at least two
rows of spectators were standing watching from outside that security barriers, because there literally wasn't a seat left in the
house.
The night progressed with the seventeen fights on the night each proving to be better than the last. Fight number '7' was
billed as super prestige 'A' class between Cork man, Seamus Cogan of Spartan 'Muay Thai,' Ballincollig versus Panicos
Yousif fighting out of 'Stockport Thai Fighters,' UK, this was a gruelling 5 x 3 minute round fight. To the last seconds both fighters put all their skills and energy
into the competition. The excitement was marred with just a hint of disappointment for the home crowd, when the judges returned a victory for the visiting fighter
Panicos Yousif. The next fight made me wonder if the promoter Martin Horgan had some kind of clairvoyant
powers; how did he foresee when putting the next fight on the cards that it was just perfect to pick up the spirits of
the Cork spectators. Two young fighters, both from Cork, stepped into the ring for what was for me personally one
of the best fights of the night; Sean Clancy of 'Siam Warriors Gym' took the victory from Craig Bowles fighting out
of 'Seanscoil Gym.' Even though this was billed as a domestic fight, with no titles or great honours for the winner,
these two young Cork men brought a sense of honour and glory with them. From the moment they stepped in the
ring, and more especially from the sound of the bell, the crowd were given a match that had all the components of
a main event fight.
In the billed main event of the night, Jordan Watson fighting out of 'Bad Company' UK, showed some
devastating kicking power in his clash with French fighter Cedric Muller. The move of the night came from the
French man; Watson grabbed Muller's ankle following an attempted front kick. Watson looked to have the match
in his hands, as he backed his opponent up seeming about to sweep him to the mats. Suddenly Muller back hit
the corner post, as if it was a move practiced in the training gym, he hooked his arms over the ropes, and then, in
what I can only describe as a drop kick, he hit the Englishman's square in the face with what had previously been
his standing leg. However, the move, which could have been plucked straight out of the movies, did little to change the momentum of the fight. The judges
handed the Englishman the win and the title.
The night was a great success; one of the best Martial Arts Shows cases I have ever attended in Cork or Ireland for the matter. Well done to Martin Hogan and
his team from 'SIAM Warriors Gym;' from all of us here at Cork Martial Arts Promotions we can not wait for the next Muay Thai Ring Show.
Picture Gallery of the Event
1st Bushido Cork Munster Open
12th June 2011
To celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Bushido Martial Arts Cork we would like to invite you to the 1st Bushido Cork Munster
Open on June 12th in Cork Institute of Technology, Bishopstown, Cork.
We have sections for Novices, Intermediates and Advanced so people are able to compete with those of a similar level. We
have light and semi contact sections.
We also have a Men's Open weight with a minimum cash prize of €300
Women's Open Weight with a minimum cash prize of €100.
Registration is 9.30 to 10.30
Online registration will be online soon on www.entr.ie
Entry Fees
Juniors 1 section €15 2 sections €25 3 sections €30
Adults 1 section €20 2 sections €30 3 sections €35
Open Weight €25
Family Price: no family will pay more than €60
Notes
A person who is over 16 may compete in u17 and Adult.
A person can fight Novice and Intermediate or Intermediate and Advanced. You cannot compete in Novice and Advanced.
If you need any further information please do not hesitate to contact Colin O'Shaughnessy
on 0871326600
The 2011 C.M.A.P Coach of the year award was presented to Mr. Martin Horgan, of Siam Warriors
Muay Thai Gym, Nicholas Well Lane, Blarney Street, Cork City.
On Saturday 14th of January 2012 the Cork Martial Arts Promotions (C.M.A.P.) team, of Conleth O
Connor, Trevor Fradgley, and myself, Leonard Coughlan, were making our way to Blarney Street, for
the Coach of the Year award ceremony. When we got close to our destination I stopped into a local
shop to ask for directions to Nicholas Well Lane. The young lady behind the counter had never heard
of it. "I'm looking Siam Warriors, it's a Muay Thai…. and before I could finish my sentence, "Oh
Martin's place, it's just around the corner" she interrupted, as she pointed up the street. It seems
Martin is known better around here than the street names.
A few minutes later we pulled into the car park, and, as we stepped out of the our car and looked
around, there were no signs to direct us to the club, but the three of us where in no doubt that we
were at the right place. We recognised the sounds of pads being hit, and the hum and buzz of
accompanying grunts, so we followed the sounds of training right to the door of the gym. When we
stepped through the door it was as if we had stepped off a plane into a different country. The training
session was in full flight, there was a raised boxing ring to our left with two sets of training partners
hard at work, one of the fighters unleashed a volley of kicks to his partner's pads that felt like it shook
the room. In front of the ring was a fully matted training area with two walls of punch bags; all active
with men punching, kicking and kneeing them powerfully. In the middle of the mats were a number of
fighters working individually on their techniques; elbows twisting down, jumping knees getting to
heights that pro basketball player would be proud of. I could not help but think back to my childhood,
those movies I watched as a young boy, Kick boxer and Blood sport, because to me this felt like we
had stepped on the set of a movie, and this movie was being filmed on location in Thailand. This,
however, was no movie, better yet, this was not even a big international fight night, this was a
Saturday afternoon training session in Cork City.
Just then the man we were there to see, Martin Horgan, called a break to the training session, and
walked over to welcome us to his gym. The team set up the CMAP banners for the presentation, and
I took the time to explain to the gym members, why we were there, and why I was interrupting their
training. I explained that we were there to present Martin with the CMAP coach of the year award,
and such a presentation was only possible because of the hard work from all competitors, and other
coaches, from Siam Warriors throughout the year, and so this was also a club award.
After the official presentation, on behalf of Cork Martial Arts Promotions, of the 2011 C.M.A.P Coach
of the year award to Mr. Martin Horgan, we spoke again to Martin about the history of his gym and
his fighters. He told us that a number of his guys were in Thailand training and fighting with some of
the sports best people, among them, his own nephew Aaron O Callaghan who recently won a
number of high profile fights. During our conversation Martin said something that I think will stay with
me for ever, as not only a perfect summation of Martin Horgan, a coach who wants to train to the
highest level and not just pick up titles, but as a great quote for the sport.
"Fighters must sometimes lose, to know they are fighting the best."
We thanked Martin and his guys for their time, and wished them all the best for 2012, as we stepped
back through that door, and the echo of pads being hit, resumed.
Report by Mr. Leonard Coughlan P.R.O Cork Martial Arts Promotion
CMAP Coach of the Year 2011
more info here
CMAP Coach of the Year 2011
Pictured left to right
Martin Horgan & Leonard Coughlan
Pictured above
Siam Warriors members
Siam Warriors
Presents Muay Thai Fight Night
Neptune Stadium Saturday 25th February 2012
Doors 5.00pm Tickets €30 Ringside €33
more info here
Siam Warriors - Fightnight
