This past weekend, JK Martial Arts hosted their annual Family Filipino Martial Arts Tournament at North Ridge Community Centre. The tournament began Saturday morning with a grand entrance at 9:10am, followed by showcase demonstration at 9:20am, and a black belt/brown belt competition at 9:30am. From there, the Kali – Stick fighting took place at 10:00am, with coloured belts and children’s competitions afterwards.
The purpose of the tournament is to offer students the opportunity to test their skills and put their training to the test. “Tournament competition is your chance to test your technique, stamina, timing, mental strength and determination in an intense, but friendly setting with other practitioners of Filipino Martial Arts,” Master Jun Santos explained. Additionally, the tournament helps competitors to get motivated and inspires them to set goals. “As an active participant they get first-hand knowledge, experience and insight into what it takes to become an expert martial artist,” Santos added. Through the tournament, it provides the chance to challenge students with new opponents, putting their skills to the test and garnering them a whole new perspective. Participation in these tournaments can also help to build character and confidence. “Learning to stay focused under pressure, or sparring new opponents for the first time, will help conquer your fears and give you the confidence you need to succeed in and out of the ring.”
One of the main advantages to participating in these tournaments is the chance to meet new people and to build team spirit and friendships. “There is a sense of comradery at tournaments as new and old friendships are created and strengthened through your shared interest in Filipino Martial Arts,” Santos said.
Following the tournament, those in attendance were treated to a traditional fiesta style “Salu-Salo” supper, which means to gather and eat together.
JK Martial Arts has been available to Martensville and area residents for the past eight years and teaches from ages 5 and up. Guro Kelly Heide has been training in Sikaran, Mano-Mano and Kali for approximately 22 years and currently holds a 4th degree black belt. Master Jun Santos has trained for nearly 30 years, is currently a 6th degree black belt and owns Santos Martial Arts in Hafford. Both men have trained under Master Vic Ferrer, who was born and raised in the Philippines and holds the rank of 9th degree black belt. “A highlight of my experience with training in Filipino Martial Arts is travelling to the Philippines with students and fellow practitioners to learn the Martial Art of Tadyakamao,” Heide said.
For anyone interested in more information, or to sign up for classes, contact Kelly Heide at kellyheide@hotmail.com or Master Jun Santos at jsantofa@gmail.com. Classes take place Tuesdays and Thursdays with kid’s classes taking place from 6pm-7pm and adult classes from 7pm-8pm.
FEATURED IMAGES BY BRADEN OTTENBREIT
