President McAleese to visit ProKick

Mary McAleese, the President of Ireland, will visit the ProKick Kickboxing Gym in east Belfast on February 11.

It’s the first time a head of state has stopped in at ProKick – best known for producing a string of kickboxing world champions - and everyone connected with the ProKick group is understandably excited.

“It’s a great honour to have the President visit us here,” said ProKick founder Billy Murray. “In the 11 years since the gym opened its doors, we’ve had a number of celebrities and local dignitaries stop by, but never a President. It’s something special.”

Over the years, ProKick has prided itself on being an all-inclusive non-sectarian gym bringing both communities together. Its membership is drawn from across the city.

“Kickboxing is founded on beliefs in respect for self and opponent – we do not tolerate intolerance here. Kickboxing is a perfect sport for young people in Belfast to find a new way forward,” said Murray.

“The President is delighted to be visiting ProKick and to be meeting young people who demonstrate such commitment and enthusiasm to their sport,” President McAleese’s spokesperson said.

This is the first time that an Irish kickboxing gym has been honoured with a visit by a President. It recognises the immense sporting and social strides ProKick has taken since it was established 11 years ago and the massive leap that kickboxing in Ireland has made in the last 25 years.

During her visit, President McAleese will watch a display of kickboxing by ProKick kids and meet some of the best achievers of the last year.

Back to news