Ronan Flynn, IKKU squad member and national champion, represented Ireland at the World Championships in Paris. Despite taking the fight to the Swiss opponent Ronan unfortunately lost out in the first round.

Following months of intensive training, dedication and 6 international tournaments, Ronan's dream of success at world level was shattered in three minutes. The disappointment was understandable. Ronan decided to take a break from training but less than a week later he was back training.

Rachel Earley made history as the first Irish female athlete to progress into round two of the world championships. Rachel won her first round in style 3-0 against here opponent from Botswana. In round two she met the very experienced Turkish athlete who progressed to the semi final only to lose by disqualification thus denying Rachel the chance of fighting in the reperchage.

Despite the disappointment of losing it was still a great experience for Rachel competing In front of the 15,000 capacity audience.

Rachel is now preparing for 2013 season when she will attend the Paris and Wasquahal Open in January, followed by under 21 European Championships in Turkey in February.