Keelan Gannon

Keelan began practicing karate in Sligo at just eight years old. His early dedication led him to achieve his 1st dan black belt at 16 and his 2nd dan by 18. Encouraged by his Sensei, he began assisting with children’s classes in his teens — an experience that sparked a lasting passion for teaching.

In 2020, Keelan graduated from Dublin City University with a degree in Physical Education and Biology. Although qualified as a secondary school teacher, he chose to follow his passion full time, dedicating himself to sharing the benefits of karate with others.

After teaching for different groups in Sligo, Keelan founded Ealaín Karate Dojo in 2021. His goal was to create a welcoming, high-quality training environment where students of all ages could develop confidence, focus, and resilience through traditional karate.

Later that year, he completed a month-long instructor internship at the HDKI Hombu Dojo (headquarters) in Dublin, and went on to spend three years teaching there under HDKI founder Scott Langley (7th Dan). This experience helped shape his professional approach to running a successful, student-centred dojo.

Keelan’s commitment to sharing karate has also extended beyond Ireland. In 2025, he travelled to Nairobi, Kenya as a guest of HDKI Kenya, where he led a four-day seminar, teaching eight sessions to students and instructors of all ages. His visit included sessions at Strathmore University and a local primary school, and was recognised by the Kenya Karate Federation for its contribution to international karate development. He is also scheduled to teach in Liverpool and Norway, continuing to bring his passion for karate to a global audience.

Keelan holds a 3rd dan black belt, awarded in 2022 by an international panel at the HDKI International Seminar and Cup. At the same event, he became the first-ever HDKI International Male Kumite Champion. He is also the current HDKI National Male Kata Champion, taking gold in both 2024 and 2025.

Today, Ealaín Karate Dojo has grown to over 250 students across five locations in Sligo, with the opening of a full-time training facility in Strandhill marking a major milestone in 2024. As head instructor, Keelan continues to lead with dedication, creating a positive, inclusive environment where students — from young beginners to adult learners — are supported to thrive, both in and out the dojo.