Taekwondo fundraiser for Cavan

The World Taekwondo Changmookwan in Cavan will next week host a fundraising event and competition in memory of the late Ciara Bartels, with all proceeds going to support hospice services in Longford and Cavan.

Ciara, from Longford Town, died in February of this year. She is the daughter of the Cavan group's Grandmaster Jan Bartels, a ninth Dan in terms of his experience in the Korean martial art that involves punching and kicking techniques.

The public event, combined with tea and coffee morning and family fun day, takes place at the Scouts Hall on Railway Road, on Sunday, May 12, entry €2, with registration from 10am.

Along with tomahawk throwing, the local Kendo club, who share the space with the Taekwondo group, will provide a demonstration of their skills on the day also.

Taekwondo club member Stuart Short, a first kup, says: “We'll have the competition taking place, the Kendo club doing a demonstration for us. We'll probably have demonstrations as well. The whole event is open to the public to attend.

“There will be teas and coffees and cakes available. Its just generally going to be a fun day.”

Jan says he is very thankful to the local Taekwondo for the support they have shown both him and his family, and is thankful for their efforts to honour his daughter Ciara's memory.

“It's very difficult thing to happen. And so for the club to support the family is really lovely, and the hospices as well. They gave her fantastic care.”