Local club hosts Northern Ireland team

Coach Ernie Johnston put fighters from all over the province through their paces in a three-hour session held at the Michelin Athletic club.

The team are preparing for the forthcoming WKC World Championship to be held in Cadiz, Spain, from November 1-4.

Four members of the local club will join the thousands of competitors descending on the Sancti Petri Hotel in Cadiz to compete for the WKC World Kickboxing titles.

Ernie Johnston (42) is the coach from the Jan Ling Club and also one of the Northern Ireland team coaches. Last year he was defeated at the quarter final stage by his American counterpart 5-3 and is hoping to get onto the podium this year. He will be competing in the Veterans +35 & Veterans +42 divisions both at +85kgs.

Izzy Johnston (30) is one of the top lady fighters in the Province and lost out narrowly in last years quarter final 9-8 , again to an American fighter. She will be going for gold this year in the ladies -70kg division.

Adrian Craig (37) is competing at the World Championships for a second time, last year he returned with a bronze medal and with that experience behind him should have a big say where this year’s gold medal will go in the Mens +35 Veterans +75kg division.

Gary Dickson (38) will be travelling to Cadiz for his first attempt at winning a World title. Gary has improved beyond recognition this year and thoroughly deserves his place on the team, he joins team mate Adrian Craig in the Mens +35 Veterans +75kg division.

On behalf of the Northern Ireland team, Ernie Johnston has thanked Michelin Athletic club Manager, Jacqueline Wilson, and her staff for the use of the club for squad training and also the manager & staff of Ballymena North Business & Recreation Centre for all their help and support.

Jan Ling Freestyle Kung Fu & Kickboxing Club train in the Ballykeel Community centre on Tuesday nights from 7-9 pm & in the Ballymena North Business & Recreation Centre on a Thursday night from 8.15-9.45pm. Ernie Johnston can be contacted on 07826528200 for any further details.