About Boyne Valley Martial Arts

The first of the Boyne Valley Martial Arts schools to open was Navan Lau Gar Kung Fu and Kickboxing club which was opened in March of 2003 by its Head Instructor, Derek Dawson. The Kilskyre club began training in April of 2004 and the Ratoath club opened in June 2006. In this short time all clubs have grown considerably and continue to go from strength to strength.

Derek began his training in 1983 and studied several other syles of martial arts for 4 years before finding Lau Gar, where he quickly excelled and gained his place on the Irish National Kickboxing Team. Derek has won 5 National Championships, countless open tournaments and has competed at both World and European Championships. Derek holds a 4th Degree Black Sash in Lau Gar Kung Fu, a 1st Degree Black belt in Kickboxing and is also a 5th Duan Wei as certified by the China Wushu Association.

Derek has also completed coaching and first aid courses to become one of only a small number of Martial Arts Instructors in Ireland to be officially recognised by the Irish Sports Council. Lau Gar Ireland is an accredited member of the Irish Martial Arts Commision (IMAC), the national governing body for martial arts in Ireland.

Both the traditional (Kung Fu) and sporting (Kickboxing) aspects of the Lau Gar system are taught at our clubs. Practical, effective self-defence techniques drawn from both of these aspects of training are also taught. Weapons training is also undertaken by advanced students (Yellow sash and above).

Click on the links above for more information.

What do I need for training?

Not much, each club has all of the equipment required for a training session. Beginners should wear tracksuit bottoms or a pair of shorts and a t-shirt to class. You should wear a good pair of trainers/martial arts shoes but you may train bare-foot if you wish. You should also bring a towel and a bottle of water or an isotonic sports drink with you. Fizzy drinks are not recommended, especially for children.

*NOTE*All graded students are required to wear a uniform and their sashes at training classes. Uniforms can be purchased from Derek.

What does training involve?

A typical training session starts with a gentle warm up followed by cardio-vascular training for fitness and stamina. This is followed by stretching for flexibility and the remainder of the class is spent training in traditional Lau Gar Kung Fu, Kickboxing and self defence techniques. Some form of sparring is normally done at the end of a class and is entirely optional although students are encouraged to take part as sparring is a useful training tool for the development of speed, timing, power, control and stamina. Disclaimer

Who are the classes suitable for?

Classes are suitable for men and women of all ages and physical condition. For beginners, the initial set of classes are aimed at improving your cardiovascular fitness and flexibilty as well as introducing you to Lau Gar Kung Fu so regardless of your fitness levels by the end of the 8 week cycle you will definitely feel fitter. Disclaimer

We also have classes which cater specifically for children.

Where?

Boyne Valley Martial Arts has 4 schools in the Meath area.

Navan Lau Gar Kung Fu and Kickboxing Club trains in St.Josephs Mercy Primary School. The school is situated off the roundabout at the Trim Road/Railway Street junction. For a map and directions please click HERE

Ratoath Lau Gar Kung Fu and Kickboxing Club trains in the new Community Centre in the centre of town. For a map and directions please click HERE.

Drogheda Lau Gar Kung Fu and Kickboxing Club trains in the Holy Family Community Centre, Ballsgrove Estate, Drogheda. For a map and directions please click HERE.

Kilskyre Kung Fu club trains in the town church hall.