Combat Sports

🥇 European Champions • Historic International Triumph European Masters: Ana Dobre & Chelsea Ward Dominate the Continental Stage! 7 May 2026 The Irish flag flew high in Portugal last weekend, and it was two of Davitt College’s own elite athletes leading the charge. We are bursting with pride today as we extend our massive congratulations to Ana Dobre and Chelsea Ward, who put on an absolute masterclass while representing Team Ireland at the Taekwondo European Championships! Standing Tall Against Europe’s Elite To give you an idea of the sheer scale of this achievement, our students lined up against a massive field of 690 elite competitors from every corner of the continent. Under intense pressure on the international stage, both martial artists displayed world-class technique, tactical brilliance, and unparalleled composure. Their combined medal haul is nothing short of historic: Official Medal Breakdown Ana Dobre 🥇 2x European Champion (Gold) 🥈 2x European Silver Medals Chelsea Ward 🥇 1x European Champion (Gold) 🥈 1x European Silver Medal 🥉 1x European Bronze Medal Dedicated to the Craft This extraordinary level of success does not happen by accident. It is the direct result of tireless dedication, sacrifice, and the elite mindset both girls bring to the mats day in and day out. Both Ana and Chelsea train locally with Mango Martial Arts Academy, working under the expert guidance and mentorship of instructors Mr. and Mrs. Bardwell. Their success is a credit to their families, their coaches, and the entire community here at Davitt College. Next Stop: The Home Advantage! The competitive journey doesn’t stop here. This phenomenal European run sets the perfect stage for their next major challenge. Both athletes will be stepping back onto the mats right here on home soil this summer. We want to wish Ana and Chelsea the absolute best of luck as they prepare for the Irish International Taekwondo Tournament, which will be hosted right here in Castlebar this coming June! We know the whole town will be there to cheer them on. ×

🥋 International Martial Arts • European Championships European Championship Success: Four Gold Medals for Ana Dobre! 12 May 2025 The international sporting stage has a brilliant new star, and she is wearing the green of Team Ireland and the crest of Davitt College. We are absolutely thrilled to extend our massive congratulations to Junior Cycle student Ana Dobre, who has just returned from an extraordinarily successful campaign at the European Taekwondo Championships in Portugal. A Stunning Five-Medal Haul on the Continent Representing her country at this elite level is a monumental achievement in its own right, but Ana went one step further by completely dominating the mat. Facing down the finest martial artists from all corners of Europe, she displayed world-class technique, discipline, and competitive composure. By the time the tournament drew to a close, Ana had secured an incredible individual haul: 🥇 4x European Gold Medals 🥉 1x European Bronze Medal To step onto a European podium five separate times across a single championship event is a testament to the endless hours of sacrifice, early morning training sessions, and fierce determination Ana brings to her sport. Inspiration for the Whole School Community The entire student body, staff, and management of Davitt College are incredibly proud of Ana’s international triumph. Her success stands as a shining example of where hard work and self-drive can take you. We look forward to welcoming Ana back to the corridors this week to celebrate her incredible achievements. Comhghairdeas leat, Ana! 🇮🇪🥋✨ ×