Irish Stick Fighting is one of the best known, yet least explored icons of Irish cultureal.

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Also known as Rince an Bhata Uisce Bheatha (pronounced rinkan batta ishka vahaa) it was a common fighting style in he 18th & 19th century.

It sprouted at a time when the Irish were considered slaves, second-class citizens or a disempowered majority. The Irish as a community, vowed to unite and bring down the "Fraction" responsible. In a movement that was part spiritual, part martial arts and part socio-economic-political, the Irish Stick became the symbol for freedom, confidence and respect.
 

Our teaching focus on the interesting "Dance of the Whiskey Stick". It's a Doyle (Dubhghaill) family style of traditional Irish stick fighting. While most Irish Stick Fighting styles used one-handed methods (much like fencing) the Doyle style evolved into a much more effective two handed style when a family member in Western Ireland fused the principles of pugilism into the motions of the stick. Passed on from generation to generation, this two handed style was only taught to individuals with the surname Doyle.

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Instructor is certified by Glen Doyle, the great-grandson of Edward Doyle

Irish Stick Fighting uses a walking stick crafted from wood, that's used as an extension to a fighters hands. Techniques involve jabbing, punching, trusting as well as blocking and disarming using the stick. Drills are extensive, and combine a fluid flow of forms. Sparring is also a key component.

If you're interested in this unusual yet effective Martial Art, find out more by filling in the request box at the bottom of this page.

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