Mayo club strike gold at Taekwondo European Championships
A TEAM of 40 dedicated competitors from Mango Martial Arts Academy in Castlebar, ranging in age from just five years old to 55, proudly represented Ireland against some of the finest martial artists from across Europe, the USA, India, and South America at the Taekwondo European Championships in Portugal.
The Irish team came home with an incredible 184 medals overall, including an impressive 76 European gold medals.
Their achievements are a testament to months of hard work, discipline, and determination.
With over 690 competitors participating in the prestigious event, the championships showcased elite talent across multiple disciplines including traditional forms, weapons, sparring, and combat sparring.
The competitors train at Mango Martial Arts Academy under the guidance of instructors Thomas and Annemarie Bardwell, whose commitment to developing athletes of all ages continues to produce remarkable results on the international stage.
In addition to the team’s medal success, Thomas Bardwell received one of the event’s highest honours when he was awarded Instructor of the Year across Europe and India. The prestigious award recognises exceptional leadership, dedication, and contribution to ATA Taekwondo and marks a proud achievement not only for the academy but also for Irish martial arts
The results achieved at the European Championships stand as a clear testament to the academy’s rapid growth and rising influence, both nationally and internationally.
Mango Martial Arts Academy is a place where confidence is built, discipline is nurtured, and respect is instilled. Every class is designed to develop not only physical ability but also essential life skills including focus, resilience, teamwork, and self-belief.
The academy prides itself on being inclusive, welcoming students of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds; family-oriented, encouraging parents and children to train and grow together; development-focused, supporting each student’s journey at their own pace; and community-driven, creating a positive environment where lifelong friendships are formed.
Whether a child is shy and looking to build confidence, energetic and seeking direction and discipline, or simply eager to try something new, Mango Martial Arts Academy provides the perfect environment to thrive.
The team is already preparing for its next major event - the Irish International Taekwondo Tournament, which will take place at Davitt College on June 27. Competitors from England, Scotland, Portugal, and the Netherlands will battle for the title of Irish champion.
Mango Martial Arts Academy continues to grow from strength to strength, developing athletes who are excelling at the very highest levels of international competition while inspiring confidence, discipline, and community spirit across Mayo.
Mango Martial Arts is currently welcoming new members to join the team. Training takes place Monday to Thursday at the academy’s dedicated premises in Moneen Industrial Estate, Castlebar.
If you are a parent looking to help your child build confidence, improve fitness, and learn valuable life skills in a safe and supportive environment, now is the perfect time to get involved.
For more information, follow Mango Martial Arts Academy on Facebook and Instagram. To enquire about class times and programmes, contact the academy directly on (089) 6181208 or email info@mangomartialarts.com.