Ballymena teen wins Karate bronze medal

In the kumite – free sparring event he took the eventual Champion Conor O’ Boyle (Banbridge KUNI) to a 2 point equal draw.

He won his 3rd place bronze medal in the kata – form individual event.

Andrew started karate at the age of 6 years and is a member of the Seven Towers Karate Club based at the Seven Towers Leisure Centre.

His coach Mr Dan Redmond predicts a bright competition career for Andrew.

He is a pupil of Ballymena Academy. A Sixth Lower Year his subject studies are Maths, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology A level studies.

Andrew achieved his Junior Black Belt in June 2011. On June 29 of this year he will be tested for the coveted Senior Black belt on the set criteria for those aged 16 years and older.

He is in intense training for this test.

Andrew’s other sporting interests extend to playing tennis at recreational level and general fitness training at the Fitness Suite at Ballymena LC.

l The club meets each Wednesday in the Minor Hall with separate classes for children/adults.