International Budo Federation
Northern Ireland
sombo
sombo
During the 1990's martin Clarke began to teach sombo wrestling and combat sombo to a select few experienced Martial Artists within Northern Ireland. Competitors from the province have enjoyed consistent success in the British Championships with 2008 seeing 4 medals. Internationally Chris St John became the first person from NorthernIreland to obtain a black belt by competition, winning the Dutch Championships in 2003. In 2008 Keith Gault and Gary Clarke became the first individuals to be awearded a black belt by examination within Northern Ireland.
The Following persons were awarded Blue Belt following a recent Grading in Holywood
Ian Gault
John Freeman
Ross Burns
Well done to:
Edward Lusk
Kieran Stewart
Kerry Stewart
Angela Lusk
Chloe St John
Karl St John
On passing their second Grade in Sombo Wrestling 
British Sombo 2009
John Freeman and Ross Burns Represented Northern Ireland in the 2009 British Sombo Championships. GAry Clarke had to withdraw at the eleventh hour due to a break, but will be back next year. Chris St John also attended but following recent surgery did not fight. John gave a spirited performance in his first ever competition and was rewarded with a Bronze medal. Ross Burns continued to develope as a fighter and gave a good performance for his first competition. Both Fighters were a credit to their coach Gary Clarke and demonstrated a strong foundation in sombo wrestling.
Ross in action
John Freeman with Northern Irelands only medal
For further information checkout
WWW.northernirelandsombo.com