When Pete Foley first stepped onto a judo mat in Kilkenny as a shy 12-year-old in the 1970s, few could have imagined that this would mark the beginning of a lifelong journey — one that would shape the face of martial arts in Ireland for generations. Now, five decades later, the founder and head coach of the renowned Black Dragon Kickboxing Gym in Galway is celebrating an extraordinary milestone: 50 years of dedication, discipline, and unwavering commitment to martial arts.
What began as a childhood curiosity has since evolved into a lifelong passion, touching thousands of lives and leaving a legacy that goes far beyond the walls of his gym.
Pete’s martial arts journey has never been confined to a single discipline. From the traditional throws of judo, he soon expanded into Lau Gar kung fu, absorbing its fluidity and technique. Karate and oriental weaponry followed, offering new challenges and deeper insights into combat and discipline. The intensity of kickboxing, Thai boxing, and traditional boxing brought further evolution — refining his skills and sharpening his coaching philosophy.
Later in life, Pete incorporated the graceful movements of tai chi and the restorative power of yoga into his routine. For him, martial arts has never been just about combat or competition — it is about growth, balance, and lifelong learning.
“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.”
Building champions and changing lives
Pete Foley isn’t just a martial artist — he’s a mentor, coach, and role model. Through Black Dragon Kickboxing, he has trained fighters who have gone on to win Irish, European, and World titles. His students — hailing from both Galway and his native Kilkenny — have made their mark on national and international stages.
But his impact extends far beyond the competitive arena. Black Dragon is a space where confidence is built, discipline is taught, and lives are transformed. Pete has trained people from all walks of life — from complete beginners to elite athletes, from everyday individuals to celebrities — all while maintaining a focus on personal development, fitness, and mental strength.
Whether in group sessions or through his sought-after one-on-one coaching, Pete’s approach is rooted in empowerment. For him, the true measure of success isn’t medals or titles, but the personal growth he sees in his students.
Recognised at the highest levels
Pete’s work hasn’t gone unnoticed. In 2014, he was named Overall Sports Coach of the Year at the Galway Bay FM Sports Awards — a testament to his excellence and influence in the world of sport. Over the years, his story and contributions have been featured in newspapers and magazines across Galway, Kilkenny, and Ireland, and he has made numerous appearances on both radio and television.
Among his proudest moments was being invited to Áras an Uachtaráin — not once, but on multiple occasions — with his fighters. During one such visit, President Michael D. Higgins personally commended Pete for his contribution to sport in Ireland. In a symbolic gesture, Pete Photos: Mike Shaughnessyeven presented the President with an honorary first Dan black belt certificate, acknowledging his role in promoting Irish culture and community through sport.
While Pete’s work in the ring is impressive, his impact outside of it is equally profound. Over the years, he has dedicated himself to using martial arts as a tool for positive change within the wider community.
He has coached high-profile sports teams such as the Galway Senior Football Team and the Connacht Rugby squad, bringing martial arts training into mainstream athletic performance. His White Collar Boxing events have raised close to €350,000 for local and national charities — an incredible achievement that reflects his deep commitment to giving back.
In addition, Pete runs self-defence and street awareness workshops across Galway’s secondary schools. Partnering with Galway City Council, the Galway Sports Partnership, and youth organisations like Foroige, he has delivered programmes that equip young people with the skills and confidence to navigate life’s challenges — both on and off the mat.
The heart of the family
Martial arts is more than just Pete’s profession — it is a family tradition. His wife Clodagh, along with their children Faith, Finn, and Belle, are all accomplished kickboxers in their own right. The Foley household is living proof that martial arts can be a shared language of discipline, respect, and strength. The Black Dragon spirit, it seems, runs just as strong at home as it does in the gym.
At 62 years of age, Pete still trains six days a week. His energy, dedication, and physical fitness continue to inspire everyone around him — a clear message that age is merely a number when passion leads the way.
As Galway and Ireland mark this significant anniversary, it’s not just the 50-year milestone that we celebrate — it’s the man behind it. Pete Foley is more than a martial arts coach. He is a pioneer, a community leader, and a true ambassador for the power of sport to change lives.
His influence can be seen not only in trophies and accolades but in the quiet confidence of a teenager finding their voice, the resilience of an adult rebuilding their strength, and the camaraderie of a team learning to push past limits together.
In every punch thrown, every belt earned, and every life touched, Pete’s legacy endures.
And as he enters his sixth decade in martial arts, one thing is clear: Pete Foley isn’t done yet.
With humility, energy, and a deep love for his craft, he continues to train, teach, and inspire — one class at a time.
“The journey never ends,” he says.
And for Pete Foley, that journey continues to shape the future of martial arts in Ireland — just as it has for the past 50 years.
