Martial Arts Festival

Hosted by Budo Martial Arts Centre

Martial Arts is a traditional form of Asian self- defence or combat that utilize physical skill and co-ordination without weapons namely Karate, Hapkido, Judo , Kung Fu and Tae Kwon Do. Mixed Martial arts is a full contact combat sport that allows both striking and grappling and martial arts techniques including kickboxing.

On 24 March 2018 Budo Martial Arts Centre hosted an Open International and Intercontinental Festival at Stanger Town Hall. A first for Stanger. Contestants from Richards Bay, Empangeni, Stanger, Durban and as far as Khazakhstan participated in this event.

The event was of an extremely high standard in true Martial Arts style. Sitting in the midst of enthusiastic contestants of all ages and nervous parents the excitement was high and contagious. After a magnificent display of different Martial art styles the tournament commenced with Kata, weaponry and Kick-boxing.

Katas were performed with style and grace with tough competition between local and international contestants. The little ones with traditional swords took me to scenes of a Kung Fu Panda movie. It was truly awesome. Nine year olds with skills of Samurai warriors, swords glistening in the sunlight. These two events showed how mind, body and spirit can be one in the grace, composure, body language and breath when done masterfully.

The kick-boxing event had parents, spectators and contestants on their feet around the rings. Unlike any movie full contact kick-boxing was exhilarating. Lightning fast kicks and thunderous punches to take your breath away.

It was a mix of joy and pain, tears and bruised egos. Girls fought like real tigresses. Even little four year girls, the youngest contestants packed real punches. There were some true warriors that fought the good fight displaying technique and strategy. There were also those that showed how the ego can lead you to defeat or disqualification. As Bruce Lee said “A quick temper will make a fool of you soon enough. “ There were definitely some tense moments and some surprising upsets where South African representatives were defeated.

The most outstanding part of this event was the deep respect and discipline instilled in students of Martial arts. Students bowed to each judge, referee, their opponents and Masters after each presentation. In our world of radical changes and technological advances it is heart-warming to see that our Masters of this ancient Art form have kept respect and discipline as an integral part of their teaching. It is with great admiration and respect for Martial arts that I urge parents and children to explore this incredible sport. Create a Legend of Awesomeness… There are True Masters on our doorstep.

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