This years summer event was well attended by local north Texas martial artists. The AYSMA would like to thank Royce Young, Frank McGilvery, Julie Doshier and Clyde Dawson for their support. The tournament started at 8 am with a quick review of the rules then the competitors lined up and bowed in.

The Run Jump Sidekick Divisions were first with Shantai Maze and Alex Hernandez winning their respective divisions. The Specialty Form Divisions were next with competitors performing kama to music and an excellent staff form from the Hegler brothers. The Traditional Empty Hand Form Divisions were next with strong performances from the students from Texas Traditional Karate Academy under Julie Doshier and Royce Young’s, Texins Karate.

The Sparring Divisions rounded off the morning’s competition. The children gave it their best and there were many exciting matches. Be sure to look over the pictures from the event! The tournament was well managed with Jym Mitchell organizing the children for the various divisions. Bob Herndon of Canton Ohio was there as many “inside” business matters were finalized, be sure to look for special news of the AYSMA and its sponsors in September! The children received beautiful trophies in sparring and medals for forms along with dinner coupons from Cici’s Pizza and Bennigans and everyone headed for their favorite restaurant then home.

A small group of competitors came back for the evening finals and once again the Hegler brothers performed their first place winning forms from the Traditional Empty Hand and Specialty Form Divisions. The sparring was fast paced and the crowd enjoyed the level of competition the children demonstrated. The AYSMA would like to thank 89.7 Power FM for their help with the volunteers as time keepers and score keepers. We would also like to thank Phoenix Medical Services for our EMT.

The evening finals still had one last treat for the audience.The students and instructors of Northern Shaolin Kung Fu USA of Garland, performed giving the crowd a taste of all the aspects of their art. Young children performed along with adults, their movements accentuated by the music. Choreographed weapons sets of spear against sword, three person synchronized empty hand and weapons sets thrilled the crowd of body building and fitness enthusiast.The Lone Star Bodybuilding and Fitness Classic had a record crowd and the AYSMA and Kung Fu USA helped to educate them about quality martial arts.

The AYSMA looks forward to its Fall event October 2nd, held at the Plano Convention Center. Be sure to mark your calendar for another day of martial arts competition.