The Karate Tournament of Champions (KTOC) will go off this year on November 22, 2009 from the ELMCOR Inc., Youth and Adult Activities Center in Queens, New York (107-20 Northern Boulevard). It is open to all styles and affiliations, giving competitors everywhere a legitimate chance.
This year's KTOC will have sparring, forms, self-defense, and weapons competitions. There will be beginner, intermediate, and advanced competitions for children, adolescents, women, and men. For a more specific breakdown, travel to KarateTOC.com.
Sparring Rules:
Sparring rules for the 2009 tournament are as follows.
Under black belt: No face contact, medium but controlled contact to the body.
Black belt and above: Light contact to the sides of the face with medium but controlled contact to the body.
About the Man Behind it all- Seiko Hanshi Diaz:
Seiko Hanshi Diaz began studying Tae Kwon Do in 1964. After training in Shotokan soon after, he found the art he was most compatible with under Master Peter Urban n 1966 (USA Goju Ryu). Hanshi Diaz continued training with Master Urban until his death in 2004, eventually achieving 10th Dan status in the art. Beyond the aforementioned, he has also trained with Grand Master Chaka Zulu and Grand Master Ron Van Clief.
Currently, Hanshi Diaz teaches martial arts at the Hunts Point Recreation Center in the Bronx and the Al Oerter Recreation Center in Queens. For more information call 646-938-5903.
Cost of Competing in KTOC and Prizes:
The cost of competing in KTOC is $50.00 for two events. A portion of the proceeds with go to the American Cancer Society. Trophies will be given to those that place (1st, 2nd, or 3rd place). In addition, there will be cash prizes for the adult black belt forms and fighting grand champion, and a Nintendo DS will be given to selected children's champion(s).
The spectator fee is $10.
