Arklow kung fu black belt Robert Wolohan is set to travel to China to represent Ireland in the World Wushu Games next month.

Wushu is a collective of different martial arts focusing on self-defence, rather than actual fighting. It is related to kung fu but is regarded as more an athletic and acrobatic performance, while kung fu remains the traditional fighting practice.

Selection means a return to the competitive arena for Robert, from Mill Meadows.

He had taken a break from formal competition for the past few years after winning a bronze medal at the world kung fu championships in America in 2000 and also capturing two British titles.

Robert has been practising kung fu for 15 years as is a 5th dan black belt. He has represented Ireland internationally on several occasions.

It the first time Ireland has put a team together for this,' Robert said.

Athletes from 38 countries will be taking part.'

The games will be held in Beijing from November 9-17 and the governing body hopes to have the sport included as a demonstration sport during next year's Olympics.

Robert said a good showing from the Irish athletes would mean an invite back for the Olympics.

The six-person Irish team is looking for funding from potential sponsors for the trip, which will cost up to €4,000 per person.

We are a new sport so we get no government funding at all,' Robert said.

Robert, a carpenter, said he intended to compete in the middleweight or heavyweight broadsword demonstration and fighting categories at the games.

Potential sponsors should contact Robert on (087) 914 9335 or Irish coach Sam Lee on (087) 242 3063.