Mixed Martial Artists taste victory in ring

On the 6th of October, 4 of the fighters from the AVT Mixed Martial Arts classes in Ballycastle and Benvarden went to compete in the Spartan Fighting Championships in Antrim.

The club did very well against formidable opposition with 2 wins out of the 4 competitors that went.

Bryan McPhee won his contest by submission and Michael Duggan won his contest by decision over a tough 3 round fight. Robert Regulinski was unlucky against a seasoned kick boxer and Ruairi McCarthy fought a fantastic 1st round dominating his opponent only to be caught in a submission hold in the 2nd round.

The opposition was especially tough at this championship with top promoters being at the event to “scout” at the talent and everyone was there to impress.

Alan Ashcroft, head coach of AVT said: “Getting into the cage or the ring takes a lot of training, ability but most of all guts and all the fighters put on a great show and were able to display the skills they have learned.

“I’m very proud of all of them and the feedback that I have had from the crowd on the night has been that all contests we were involved in were standout fights.

“We know what we have to work on for next time and we’re confident of getting a higher win ratio at the next event in December.”

Mixed Martial Arts is taught in the McAllister Hall on Monday night in Ballycastle and in the Benvarden community hall on Wednesday and Friday nights.

Everyone is welcome to try the classes and coaching is tailored to those that want to compete or just learn new skills and get fit.

The club would particularly like to welcome any women who would like to train to either get fit or learn self-defence techniques to add to the growing number of ladies that are training with the class.

Coaches are all accredited and Alan Ashcroft is a 2nd Dan Black Belt in Judo and wrestling coach, Mark Donald the assistant coach is a 1st Dan Black Belt in Judo. Both coaches are previous Commonwealth Judo competitors. Alan also holds qualifications in self-defence as well.

If you fancy giving MMA a try, find out more about AVT on Facebook or call 07835575328.