Submitted
Central Alberta Martial Arts Centre (CAMA), hosted its 10th annual martial arts tournament recently in Sylvan Lake.
The Alberta Bushido Open attracted over 100 combined competitors and spectators respectively, from all over the province and even Saskatchewan and hosted a fun, safe and exciting tournament. Mayor Sue Samson, dressed in a traditional karate gi (uniform) provided a beautiful welcoming speech followed by a strong board break. Following, a traditional Chinese Lion Dance added to the opening celebrations.
Although a tournament can never truly reflect practical self-defense, it serves as an important fundraising venue for the not-for-profit centre, as well providing the opportunity to see so many individuals ranging in various ages and martial art styles coming together to share and to celebrate different traditions, create friendships, and demonstrate martial arts etiquette and respect in karate, kung fu, taekwondo, arnis and board breaking were all part of this exciting day.
Many of students and competitors, some as young as five years old, courageously stood up in front of many spectators and judges to exhibit their martial art knowledge, skill and most importantly, spirit. Because of this experience, many children and youth walked away from the tournament with a renowned sense of self-confidence and pride.
And it is this sense of self-empowerment that is one of the most important skills that the centre aims to teach its children so that they can make positive changes within themselves, within others, and within their community alike.