Gemma Kane - 1st Black Belt

Gemma Kane became the first person to get her Black Belt with Jimmy Boylan's club in December 2010. Gemma has been training with Jimmy since she was 7 years old and is one of the longest members of the club. On the night Gemma was calm, relaxed and ready for the grade. Starting off with the forms Gemma executed each one perfectly, with instructor Jimmy asking her to do the Finger Form as an additional form on the night.

The on to techniques, with over 200 to do, Gemma didn’t miss a beat. There was no doubt that Gemma had trained hard and put everything into each and every technique. It was amazing to watch the skill, strength and concentration that Gemma put in to each punch, strike, kick and block, she certainly did an outstanding job. A big thanks to Pat Kirby for volunteering on the night to run through the techniques with Gemma, Pat’s help and willingness to take a few knocks is always appreciated :)

The final part of the grade was sparing. Gemma has always shown exceptional talent in this section but on the night of her grade she truly out did herself. With over 25 minutes of intensive, controlled fighting, Gemma really came into her own. Sparing 9 different members of the club there was no doubt that Gemma not only desereved this grade but had set an very high example to anyone following in her footsteps.

Gemma is truly an exceptional member of our club she is an inspiration to everyone and has set an extraordinarily high standard for everyone!


Our new Black Belt, Gemma Kane, with all our other Black Belts


Gemma with the support of all the club


Gemma with Tony, Pat, Julie and Jimmy


Gemma with her biggest supporter, Tony Kane, her Dad :)