14 Nov Over 40’s Masters Divisions
The Australian Chitokai Karate Association debuted the Master Divisions for over 40’s at the Autumn Tournament earlier this year. The Masters Divisions were created in the hopes of involving our more mature aged karate students in the tournament. The divisions were considered a success and are being run again at the upcoming tournament on the 24th November at West Wallsend High School hall. Students can register here.
“I think it’s always difficult at our age to compete with young, fit and fast karatekas. As a result, most older folks just aren’t interested in competing in karate tournaments. Having the Masters division just means that us older and slower people with a life-time of injuries can still be competitive in slow-motion mode.” Says Kevin Fernandez, HVMAC Warners Bay student and competitor at the ACKA Autumn Tournament. “It was good to have the opportunity to compete in Kumite with the older folks around the same age, where we don’t take it too seriously and can have a bit of fun. It’s not about winning medals at our age, it’s more about applying what we’ve learnt, under pressure and seeing how we cope under competition conditions (without being a punching bag for the younger and much faster competitors). I also think there’s more of a sense of camaraderie amongst us masters due to the empathy we have for known/shared ailments and the banter that goes with it. Overall, I thought having this division was a success and I hope it provided some entertainment for those present.”
“Competing in the ACKA Winter Tournament was a great experience. This was the first time ACKA has added a 40+ age Masters division for Kata, Kobudo and Kumite.” Says Stephen Bosworth, HVMAC Waratah student and competitor at the ACKA Autumn Tournament. “I have attended and supported many ACKA tournaments over the years with my family as a parent and my children have always had a lot of fun competing. As a martial artist sitting on the side lines, I have always wondered how I would go stepping into a competitive arena and testing myself. To compete against people who are very senior in rank and have significant martial arts backgrounds, but also at an age appropriate level – I thought this was a fantastic opportunity to participate, without the anxiety of trying to compete against people much faster, flexible and younger. Entering and competing in the Masters division, I did find this to be challenging, fun and to be able to test myself under pressure as I head to my December grading, it was a very humbling experience. I encourage other martial artists in a similar age group to take the leap and compete in future Masters events. It’s not just about winning; it’s about testing your skills, pushing yourself to be the best you can be, learning more about yourself and looking for ways to improve. At the top of the list however for me is being part of a supportive family-oriented community that shares a common love for Martial arts, filled with friendships, camaraderie and respect among all participants. I was thrilled to have placed in all events I entered, a goal I would have thought out of reach at the time I registered. I can’t wait for the next one!”
“Having started Martial Arts in my late 30’s and competing early on, to come back at 50 after several years out of the competitive arena was amazing!” Says Sensei Kelie Fisher, HVMAC Warners Bay instructor and ACKA Autumn Tournament competitor.” The masters division was friendly and supportive while still being competitive and I cannot recommend is enough.”