Friday, October 23, 2015

If You Attend Just One Tournament In 2016

Last month I urged readers to stay away from tournaments that don't respect seniors.  If the tournament doesn't offer a 60+ age division, don't go.  If it's a "WTF-style" event that for some reason eliminates one or more senior divisions, save your money.  Tournament directors should be promoting lifelong martial arts instead of "inviting" seniors to compete against 20-year-olds.
   This month I'm happy to point you in the direction of a tournament that treats our oldest and most experienced competitors respectfully.
      Black belt competitors 60 and over: no registration fee.
      Divisions for 60+ athletes?  Yes.
      Actual competitors who are 60+?   Absolutely.  The turnout was excellent last time, and the next version of this tournament will be even better.  The word has gotten out that this is a senior-friendly event.
   I'm talking about the 21st Annual Mercer County Nationals, to be held March 26th, 2016, at Rider University in Lawrenceville, N.J.  Hats off to Master Ivan Mendez for once again putting the spotlight on senior athletes.  If you attend only one tournament in 2016, let this be the one.
    Show respect to those who respect you.  Hope to see you there.

                                                                         
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1 comment:

  1. Baby Boomer SenseiFebruary 29, 2016 at 8:40 AM

    Great post and website. We boomers pushing the limits, indeed, face challenges. I've since segued out of Japanese karate and Muay Thai Kickboxing for the less joint explosive Tai Chi and Qigong, though I find myself teaching classes on occasions. I'm surprised Moo Duk Kwan does not support over 60 kata/kumite competition. In JKA (see http://babyboomersensei.blogspot.com/2013/02/senior-kata-70-to-79-year-old-division.html) it's prevalent. Perhaps when the current culture realizes that us old timers aren't ready for the sunset will they understand that old does not mean dead.

    Peace,

    Sensei Domi
    http://babyboomersensei.blogspot.com/

    ReplyDelete

Many thanks for sharing your comments with Seniors in the Martial Arts. Best wishes for continued success with your training.

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