Tournament Day!

The sun shines brightly in the blue sky as I carry my athletic bag and lunch out to the car. I am heading to the martial arts tournament sponsored by my school. I arrive at the venue to see the truck and trailer with the equipment parked at the curb. I spend the next half hour carrying in mats, ring boxes, chairs and other equipment. Many hands help lighten the load. The tournament begins with tiny Little Ninjas, 3 and 4 year old breaking boards and going up to be awarded their medals. I help referee the high and long jumps, taking the time to explain to one mother that the judges look at the landing with a critical eye to make sure that the competitor is safe. A quick lunch and then a change into my uniform. My niece and I compete in family forms, a synchronized floor routine,with seven other groups. We did not place, but that is fine, because I have never competed in that event before, and so it was a learning experience. I am third to compete in individual open hand forms. I ki-yup and perform hapkido combat forms one through four. I win 3rd place, the bronze medal. Icing on the cake, but even more dear are the positive comments from the other competitors. Up to receive the medal. The tournament director convinces my friend to spar with me. She borrows sparring equipment and we spar for two minutes. She lands some good kicks and punches and is declared the gold medalist. I receive the silver. One spectator says “you are the only two women I’ve seen smile through an entire sparring match!” I help pack up the equipment and then head home thinking of the sport I love and the day I spent with supportive friends.