When Pete Foley first stepped onto a judo mat in his native town of Kilkenny as a 12-year-old child in the 1970s, few could have predicted that his journey would span five decades and touch the lives of thousands across Ireland and beyond.
This week, (half a century later) as founder and head coach of the renowned Black Dragon Kickboxing Gym in Galway, Pete celebrates 50 years in martial arts — a milestone that reflects not only his personal dedication, but also his lasting impact on the sporting community.
From judo beginnings to the flowing movements of Lau Gar kung fu, from the discipline of karate & oriental weaponry to the intensity of kickboxing, Thai boxing, and boxing, Pete embraced every art as a chance to learn and evolve.
Later, tai chi and yoga would add balance and longevity to his training — showing that martial arts is as much about inner growth as it is about physical power.
Over the years, Pete has built champions.
Under his guidance, fighters from Galway and indeed his native home of Kilkenny have gone on to claim Irish, European, and World titles.
Black Dragon has produced names that shone on both national and international stages, while also providing a safe and disciplined space for men, women, and children to grow in confidence and ability.
Pete has trained everyday people right up to celebrities and famous figures, also offering one-to-one coaching that blends fitness, discipline, and confidence.
But Pete’s work has always gone far beyond the ring.
He has coached several sports teams including the Galway Senior Football Team, worked with the Connacht Rugby squad and built programs that reach deep into the community.
His White Collar Boxing promotions have helped to raise almost €350,000 for charity, and his self-defence and street awareness workshops are delivered across secondary schools in Galway city and county, as well as through partnerships with Galway City Council, Galway Sports Partnership, and Foroige youth groups.
Yet, for Pete, the greatest achievement isn’t medals or headlines — it’s the everyday transformation of people who step through his doors.
From helping youngsters find self-belief, to training GAA stars, to showing busy adults how to “fight fit” without ever stepping into the ring, his philosophy has always been about empowerment.
And martial arts is truly a family affair.
His wife of 22 years Clodagh and children Faith, Finn, and Belle are all champion kickboxers — proof that the Black Dragon spirit runs deep at home as well as in the gym.
At 62 years of age, Pete still works out at least 6 days a week proving without a shadow of a doubt that age is very much just a number.
“Martial arts is a journey that never ends,” Pete reflects.
“Every class, every student, every challenge teaches you something new. After 50 years, I’m still learning.”
As Galway and Ireland celebrate this milestone, we honour not just a coach, but a mentor, a pioneer, and a community leader whose influence will inspire generations to come.
