Gold Dragons Kickboxers

Dungannon Swift’s Football club was the venue for the 20 fight extravaganza which was promoted by Stuart Kirk of Dungannon Kickboxing club and was set in an impressive Marquee and consisted of junior fights and 12 senior fights – 5 of which were elusive title fights.

12 year old Golden Dragon Fighter Peter Tohill had the in enviable task of kicking off the ‘Siege’. This was a closely contested fight with the young Magherafelt man marginally losing out to the Dungannon contender.

Next up from the Golden Dragon Club was 9 year old Lorcan Bradley. The young Loup man stepped bravely into the ring to an older more experienced opponent, he fought gallantly but lost the fight but done his parents, who are dedicated club members very proud.

Despite Sensei Darren’s first 2 fighters being unlucky, 11 year old Ciaran McLaughlin stepped confidently into the ring. Once again this was a highly competitive bout with Ciaran giving his all. To the delight of the Golden Dragon supporters the young Newbridge man was announced the victor. Ciaran’s parents were clearly elated but had to go through it all again when next up was Ciaran’s twin brother Aidan.

The pressure was most definitely on Aidan and hopefully sibling rivalry would prove to be an advantage on this occasion. Aidan was confident from the outset and echoed the success of his brother giving Team Golden Dragon their second victory of the evening.

Now that the junior Bouts were complete it was time for the seniors to brave the infamous ring. First up for the evening was Golden Dragon’s novice Stephen Graham. The 25 year old Ardboe man had an intense battle with his opponent, the fight went the distance, and Stephen came out victorious. There were screams of victory from the supporters and Sensei Darren’s happiness was evident as he proudly exited the ring with his tired but winning fighter.

The Final Golden Dragon representative of the evening was Draperstown’s Seamus Hegarty. This was Seamus’ second time in ring and it would be difficult for him to emulate the success of his debut fight which was resulted in a first round knockout last month. Seamus fought courageously throughout and the fight went the distance but unfortunately the decision was not in the Draperstown man’s favour, but he can hold his head high these tussles are not easy challenges!

Team Golden Dragon could now relax and enjoy the remaining fights, rich in the knowledge that all fighters competed with heart, dignity and pride they done themselves, their families & supporters and of course Sensei Darren proud. There is clearly a great team spirit and camaraderie within the rural club and it is an honour to be involved with such dedicated people. Congratulations to all involved, and to Stuart Kirk for running such a successful event. For further information log on to www.goldendragon.org.uk