Here in rapid-fire style I offer three reasons why it's good to be a senior martial artist. Whether you're 50-something or 60+, check out these opportunities.
The Mercer County Nationals. On Saturday, March 22nd, you can compete in the 19th annual tournament hosted by Master Ivan Mendez. This is a well-run and well-attended event that welcomes martial artists of all styles. And this year you'll find 60+ divisions in sparring, weapons, and forms. You can register at the door if you can't beat the online deadline. If you live anywhere near New Jersey -- the tournament is being held at Rider University -- try to attend. For full details on the event and the competition categories, visit Mercer County Nationals right now.
The 2014 U.S. Taekwondo Classic. On Sunday, March 30th, Grandmaster David Turgeon will host the 20th edition of this major Taekwondo tournament. Grandmaster Turgeon, a five-time member of the U.S. National Team, brings in some of the world's elite judges for this event, and the Classic is widely recognized as one of the premier sport poomsae [forms] competitions for black belts in the country. The tournament will be held at Tolland High School in Tolland, CT. Please note that there will be absolutely no registrations at the door. To preregister, visit 2014 U.S. Taekwondo Classic.
USA Taekwondo State Qualifiers. USA Taekwondo is America's official link to Olympic Taekwondo, but you don't need to be an Olympian to compete. Taekwondo practitioners of every age and every rank can compete in state tournaments to earn a spot at the USA Taekwondo Nationals, which will be held this July in San Jose, CA. This year USA Taekwondo added a new age division for poomsae competitors: 66+. So now there's a 60-65 division as well as the new 66+ group. What are you waiting for? Find a state tournament near you, and give it your best shot. Visit USA Taekwondo State Tournaments.
What's that you say? You're not quite ready for competition? If that's the case, get yourself in the martial-arts mood by becoming a spectator at one of the events discussed above. This year you can watch; next year, compete. Listen, health is largely a use-it-or-lose-it proposition, and Taekwondo can help keep you on the right path. If you're not already in training, find a senior-friendly school near you and get with the program.
Hope to see you at a tournament in 2014.
