Aaron Sheehan champions Team GB

Aaron Sheehan, Associate Practitioner in Pathogen Genomics Unit (PenGU), Microbiology, is a dedicated practitioner of Kyokushinkai Karate and will be representing Great Britain at the 6th IFK World Kata Championships 2024 in October.

Inspired by his siblings, he started his karate journey at the age of seven after competing and representing his club, Ynysbwl, at just eight years old. At 14, Aaron became a clicker world champion in Greece before achieving his first black belt in 2017 and his second blackbelt in 2022. 

Aaron said: “Karate has significantly impacted my personal life, teaching me discipline and resilience”.

Over the past two years, he has competed in numerous international tournaments and attended British squad sessions. Based on his performances and dedication, he was selected as the team captain for Great Britain at the upcoming IFK World Kata Championships, marking his first time competing in the senior (over 18s)  men’s category. 

Aaron also added: “I am excited and nervous about this opportunity. I’m eager to represent my club, country, and Great Britain and to make Team GB and everyone proud.”

There are more than 10 countries due to compete at the championships with more than 25 competitors in Aaron’s category.