At 6th degree Black Belt, Ms Connolly is the highest ranking student of Master Fitzgibbon and is one of only five people in Ireland to achieve black belt in less than two years. Demonstrating an early thirst for learning and training, she began assisting Master Fitzgibbon, in classes, while still a green belt. This proved to be an immense foundation for her, and still proves valuable today.
According to Ms. Connolly, “Taekwon-Do is not just a martial art, it becomes a way of life. It teaches determination, self-confidence, motivation, to become goal orientated, and how to push beyond barriers. You can develop mental and physical health that will that will reward you for life.”
Ms Connolly was promoted to 6th dan, by First Grandmaster Rhee, Ki Ha, Taekwon-Do’s “greatest ever student”. This year, Ms. Connolly celebrates 10 years running her own school, Gort Taekwon-Do Academy. She co-hosts two immensely-successful tournaments, every year, with Master Fitzgibbon – the Connacht Championships, and The Tribal Cup. She is also a fully qualified International Instructor and Examiner.
