CIVIC RECEPTION PUTS KARATE IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Family, friends and supporters of Brian Toomey and Shane Hurley, pictured following the civic reception held in Fermoy Town Hall.

Karate is one of several ' minority' sports. This being the case, it can be difficult securing much needed publicity.

Thanks to the efforts of Fermoy based councillor Noel McCarthy, the spotlight was firmly on karate when two of its foremost exponents were formally honoured at a civic reception held in Fermoy Town Hall on Wednesday of last week.

Anyone with even a passing interest in sport, will automatically associate Brian Toomey with karate. He took up the sport as an enthusiastic beginner almost 50 years ago and as he approaches retirement age, his appetite and eagnerness for this particular type of martial art, shows no sign of waning.

His protege, Shane Hurley, is a young man who has brought karate standards in Fermoy Karate Club to new heights. A gifted practitioner of this ancient pursuit, his star is still very much on the rise.

PROUD MOMENT

Kitted out in their very smart IJKA blazers, Brian, representing Fermoy Karate Club and Fermoy Karate Club member, Shane, a multiple World champion medalist, were called upon to sign the Fermoy Municipal District visitors’ book. With this formality complete, they and their entourage moved upstairs to council chambers, where they received framed citations.

Councillors in attendance acknowledged both men’s achievments. For the record, the public representatives included councillors Noel McCarthy (who proposed the civic reception), Kay Dawson, Deirdre O’Brien, William O’Leary, Frank Roche and Frank O’Flynn.

Responding to the kind words, Brian said it was a really special occasion for Fermoy Karate Club.

“I’m immensely proud to be representing Fermoy Karate Club here this evening. I’m also delighted for Shane, who has gone on to bring great honour to his family, club and country. There’s no better feeling for me than knowing I’ve played a small part in his success to date,” Brian said.

Shane made a special point of thanking his parents, Carmel and John. He went on to acknowledge the role Fermoy Karate Club has played in his life. He thanked Fermoy Municipal District for providing the club with a premises (Fermoy Leisure Centre). He also paid tribute to the many individuals who have helped him on his sporting journey.

SAVOURING THE MOMENT

Speaking to The Avondhu following the ceremony, Cllr McCarthy said it was entirely fitting that outstanding achievement was recognised.

“Unfortunately, this event didn’t go ahead as scheduled due to Covid restrictions. However, I’m personally delighted to be associated with an occasion that honours two men who are keeping the sport front and centre, namely Brian Toomey and Shane Hurley,” he said.

OPEN AND INCLUSIVE

Another important point made by both men was the willingness of Fermoy Karate Club to support the Irish Wheelchair Karate Federation. This is part of the club’s mission statement of being open to all.

Those in attendance included family and friends of both Brian and Shane. Also present on the evening were other volunteers who have helped keep the karate flag flying in Fermoy for nearly half a century. Thanks to their efforts and the talents of members, the club is now regarded as one of the best in the country.