The UMAN OG Fountain of Youth National Championships is just 13 days away, featuring legendary competitors and a unique format. With a focus on inclusivity for older martial artists, the event promises excitement, competition, and a chance to win $2,000 in prize money. Spectators and competitors alike can enjoy various pricing options and a vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss this opportunity to witness martial arts history and support the community.
Hello everyone! We are now less than two weeks away from the highly anticipated UMAN OG Fountain of Youth National Championships. As of today, we have just 13 days until the event kicks off, and I want to share all the essential details with you.
The championships are set to take place soon, and I want to clarify a few important points for everyone involved. First and foremost, there is no black belt list for entry. Participants will either be judges, timekeepers, scorekeepers, or competitors. Spectators are also welcome to join us for this exciting event.
Back in June, we offered early bird pricing that was less than half of the current rates. As we approach the event, we are excited to see both pioneers and legends competing. Notably, we have legendary martial artists like Lamar Thornton and JB La Puppy, both 75 years old, and an 84-year-old competitor performing forms. This event is not just for kids; it’s a celebration of martial arts across generations.
We are giving away $2,000 in prize money, which will be funded by the spectators and competitors rather than sponsors. This is a unique approach, and I believe it reflects the community's support for this event. Here’s a breakdown of competitor fees:
This pricing is competitive compared to other tournaments, which typically charge around $90 for one division and $30 for each additional division.
The venue has a maximum capacity of 550 people. While we hope to reach that number, it’s important to note that this is not your typical tournament. Entry will not be granted to just anyone who shows up; we want to ensure a smooth experience for everyone involved.
We will offer a black belt discount for an all-access pass at the door. Black belts can pay $40 for the all-access pass instead of the standard $75. This is a great opportunity for black belts to participate fully in the event.
We are also looking to capture high-quality video footage of the event. If you have a decent camera and are interested in media passes for potential documentaries, please reach out. We aim to create professional videos that highlight the event and its participants.
I want to emphasize the significance of participating in this event. Many of us have been competing for years, and it’s crucial to have goals that motivate us to stay in shape. I personally have experienced the benefits of competition, and I encourage everyone to challenge themselves, regardless of age.
It’s common to hear people say they are too old to compete, but I challenge that notion. Age should not be a barrier to participation in martial arts. Many competitors in their 70s and 80s are proving that with dedication and training, they can still perform at a high level. This event is about motivation, accountability, and showing that we can still pursue our passions as we age.
Looking ahead, the next tournament is scheduled for February 7th, which will launch Region 11. Winners from this event will have the opportunity to compete against champions from different age categories in future tournaments. This new format aims to keep the competition exciting and engaging.
In conclusion, the UMAN OG Fountain of Youth National Championships is shaping up to be an extraordinary event. With a focus on inclusivity and the celebration of martial arts across generations, we invite everyone to participate, whether as competitors, judges, or spectators. Don’t miss out on this chance to witness history in the making and support our community.
Thank you for your attention, and I look forward to seeing you all at the championships!
