Michael D is now a black belt!

Our President was always a formidable opponent on the political stage – but anyone who would even think of challenging his authority should now know . . . Michael D is a black belt.

It’s not that he’s been practicing his kick boxing in the Phoenix Park between diplomatic meetings or public engagements – it’s thanks to his old friends in Galway who have distinguished themselves on the world stage.

Because members of the Galway Black Dragon Kickboxing Club and representatives of the International Kickboxing Federation Ireland were guests of honour at a Presidential Reception at Aras an Uachtarain last Thursday.

And to mark that honour IKF Ireland President and Annaghdown native Pete Foley presented President Higgins with his honorary Black Belt Certificate and thanked him on behalf of all present for the reception.

President Higgins received the group of almost 50 people from IKF Ireland and shook hands and exchanged some kind words with each of them.

President Higgins complemented the fighters for their fantastic achievements at the Unified World Championships in Tuscany last November and also the coaches for the great work they put in.

He remarked on what was a great success for Ireland to be able to compete among some 10,000 athletes from 120 countries from five continents and come home with such great results.

The guests were then brought on a full tour of the Aras and given its history by one of the President’s aides.

“What an honour it was for our group of kickboxers and their families to meet the President and his wife Sabina at Aras An Uachtarain, as just two days previous, they were hosting Prince Charles and his wife Camilla,” said a delighted Pete afterwards.