World Kickboxing Champion named Limerick Person of the Month
Hayleigh Kiely received the award at a presentation in the Clayton Hotel
ISKA World Kickboxing Champion Hayleigh Kiely has been named Limerick Person of the Month for her incredible sporting achievements.
The Moyross native, who has been training in martial arts since she was a young child, was crowned the world champion in April, when she won her fight against Marisha Christie.
She defended the title against Lilly Anderson in July, and will be once again fighting to defend her title on November 24 against France’s Paola Cantaro.
The 24 year-old primary school teacher trains with Hub Martial Arts in Kileely, and can be spotted there practising her skills in the ring most evenings.
Her training schedule and fitness regime often get even more intense as she gets closer to fights, but her dedication to her sport is unmatched.
The nickname “Hayleigh Smiley Kiely” given to her by Hub Martial Arts, is undoubtedly fitting, as her joy in receiving the Limerick Person of the Month award is clear.
Despite also holding the title of world champion of her sport, Hayleigh feels that receiving the Limerick Person of the Month title is “one of the biggest achievements anyone can get”.
She explained that she was honoured to be chosen, as there is “so much talent” to be found in Limerick, and “so many wonderful people” that to her, “it really means a lot to be honoured like this”.
She described the support she has received since winning the World Championship as “absolutely fantastic”.
“I always said it, from when I was fighting in small halls around Ireland to now… getting on planes and fighting around the world, the amount of people that jump on board and come with me - it’s absolutely fantastic.”
She gave “a big thanks to everyone that supports me, I really appreciate it”.
The Limerick Person of the Month award is sponsored by the Limerick Leader, media agency Southern and the Clayton Hotel.