Sensei Derek Desmond:
Derek started Karate at the age of 14 and was one of the first people to train under Prof. Tatsuo Suzuki, then a young 7th Dan.

Since then he has continued his Karate training under some of the world's greatest Japanese Masters, some of whom, took up residence in Ireland for short period. He also travelled to Europe, America and Japan, receiving instruction from older Grand Masters who would be somewhat reluctant to travel from their own country.

Derek started on the competitive ladder at quite a young age, has many All-Ireland wins to his name in 18 years successfully representing Ireland at every level on the European scene and competing in 5 World Championships, finishing 5th in the World Championships in Madrid 1981 and reaching quarter-finals in the World Championships in Tokyo in 1984.

Derek is now retired from competitive Karate and is concentrating on imparting his knowledge to the up and coming athletes. He is presently coach to the Irish National Karate team. Derek received his 5th Degree from Wado-Kai in Japan. This makes him the highest official Wado-Kai instructor in the country.