ARTICLES AND COMMENTARY

 

2008 KELLY'S HERO'S
By Sensei Jason Anzur

 

   The dragons headed off to the classic Kelly’s Hero’s Tournament this past weekend. We had a several members of our tournament team out due to conflicting schedules with work and school. Master Shaffer was also unable to attend because he and the other board members had their annual Hall of Fame Board meeting in Philadelphia, Pa. at the same time.
   

   The tournament was off to a good start, with Masters Markham and Sullivan presenting the Hero of Heroes awards to Master Sandra Strong and Chuck Reynolds. Both are excellent recipients of their award.

 

 

   This year the attendance was down a bit, but as Master Markham always says “We’re here to have a good time!” and we did just that. I’m proud of the dragons, with only 4 competitors they still managed to win 10 trophies 5 of which were first place. Our Austin McAdams won his division, but lost to Master Markhams student Brandon Henderson in the final match for the Grand. Uriah Wood (Woody) ran his kata in the Grand but lost by 2 tenths of a point to Marty Robbins. Both Austin and Woody are fierce competitors.

 

   All in all the day was good, its always to great to your Isshin-ryu friends. Special Thank You to Masters Laney, Williams, Markham, Sullivan and Parks for watching over the Dragons. These Masters always prove themselves time after time, and is very clear why Master Shaffer chooses to associate with.