Karate 5 Association, led by Grandmaster Willie G. Wilson,
Shaffer's Red Dragons, led by Grandmaster Denny Shaffer
and Laney's Steel Hand Dojo, led by Grandmaster Joe Laney
won 60+ trophies during this tournament. That is a testament
to the type of students that are produced by these 3 fine
martial arts Grandmasters. 

 There was an unnamed Black belt competitor who made
the remark  that he couldn't wait for the continous
fighting portion of the tournament to begin. He said in so
many words, that he was sure he would "wipe the floor"
with these Isshinryu karateka. He just happened to be
lucky enough to draw one of Grandmaster Denny Shaffer's
human " buzzsaws" for his 1st and only match. He spent
the rest of the day sitting in the stands holding his head 
in his hands. I suppose he was trying to figure out what
went wrong with his "foolproof" plan. Those Isshinryu
boys sure can scrap! 

Jami Furino, from the Karate 5 Association  won the award
for the most outstanding Kyu rank participant in the tournament.
Jami won 1st place in Kata, 1st place in Kumite, 1st place in
weapons and anchored her team to a 2nd place finish in the
team synchronized Kata competition. Jami also won the Grand
Championship for Kata in her division. 

Mr. Gary Long, representing the Harold Long Foundation, gave
a very informative discourse explaining the reason for the 
creation of the Foundation. He was gracious in his remarks
of thanks to everyone who has been supportive of the efforts
of the foundation. Karate 5 Association was proud to be 
mentioned in that category. 
     Karate 5 Association presented a Karate 5 Tee shirt, patch
and a custom made "cane of support", to Master Wayne Wayland.
Instructor Naomi Mason designed and hand made the carrying
bag for the cane. We felt that it was an awesome thing that Master
Wayland did in organizing this tournament in honor of his mentors.
    We might add, that this was one of the best run tournaments that
we have been to in many a year. The judging was as fair as I have
ever seen and there were no "ugly" incidents to spoil the fun. This
proves that it is possible to have a competitive tournament and
remain civilized human beings. Hats off to Master Wayland!
 

Karate 5 Association was honored to receive a plaque for their
community involvement. We strive real hard to show that there
is a side to the martial arts that goes beyond " punching and
kicking". Our goal is to help each and every student become
the " best that they can be ",  and encourage them to be positive
contributors to society.
  

1st place in Kata, 2nd place in Kumite and 1st place
in weapons is enough to put a smile on Sarah Martin's face. 

The picture does not include all 33 trophies Karate 5 won
at this tournament.