The 33rd ANNUAL WINTER/SPRING FESTIVAL OPEN held at W. P. Grier High School by Sahbomnim CHARLES BURRIS was the host for this wonderful event. Before the event begin a prayer was given by ROBERT KITCHIN. Arbitrator for this event was DONALD McCLUNEY with advisors JEROME “Magic” JOHNSON, WILLIAM REED, and DOUG ARMSTRONG.

The breaking was done outside in front of the school with WILL VANVELSOR taking first place.  Inside things were moving at a good pace as competitors listened for their division to be called.  There were between 200-300 spectators and competitors - a great turnout indeed.  No one could ever say that martial arts is not for the handicapped as competitors RANDALL DERRICK, ANGELO SCIULLI and CALVIN McILWAIN showed what they could do.  These competitors should not be underestimated by anyone for there are true martial artists.

HANNAH O’BRIEN took 1st place in the 7 year-old kata division.  As the day wore on it came down to the Underbelt Grand Championship in which there were 22 competitors.  MATTHEW McCOWAN II took Jr. Novice, MAKAYLA LAMPLEAR took Jr. Advance with MONIQUE BYRD as runner up.  GARRETT KURY took Jr. Int. and the Adult Underbelt went to JODIE KANIPE with MVKC.  The EBONY DRAGONS from Rockingham, NC walked away with 21 trophies.

The black belt divisions were not to be outdone.  Their katas were sharp and precise and their sparring was all it was expected to be.  The crowd enjoyed the level of competition, skill and ability these black belts have.  CHOPPER WHITE is one competitor who has a great future in the martial arts and will most likely be seen more often as well as his father KENNETH WHITE.   This is the first year I have seen either of them compete and it is always nice to see new faces.

Congratulations to Grand Master DOUG ARMSTRONG of MVKC for the most student registration.  Also Congratulations to Sahbomnim CHARLES BURRIS for all his and his staff hard work and dedication to make this event unforgettable.  Hope to see everyone at the 34th ANNUAL SPRING/WINTER FESTIVAL OPEN in 2011.

GRAND CHAMPIONS

Jr. BB Kata - JARED PRESSLEY        Jr. BB Kumite- DARRLY NORMAN
Adult BB Kata- CHOPPER WHITE        Adult BB Kumite -CASS SIGMON
   Runner up - JEFF BLAKE        Runner up - CHOPPER WHITE
Adult BB Exec. Kumite - KENNETH WHITE
     Runner-up - RICKY TAYLOR