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Published: December 10th 2005
Let's just jump right in.
Canada's first fight of the day was Eslam vs. Brasil. Eslam fought well and the fight went the full three rounds but in the end Brasil got the better of him. Our second fight was this evening, Bruce vs. India. Again, Bruce fought well and the fight lasted two rounds with India coming out the victor. We are all very pleased and proud of how both Bruce and Eslam fought and represented us.
It is important to remember competition does not define who you are as a martial artist or a person. Sure it is nice to win but it is better to know that you gave it your all, tried your best and had fun! Anything can happen on any given day here. This competition is so much about experience for our team. None of them have ever been to this level before. This is a learning exercise for all of them. Win, lose or draw what matters is the experience, supporting each other and having a good time. This competition is the pinnacle of our sport. Not many people ever reach this level and even fewer people have the guts to step into the ring to begin with, so we have been trying to stress to them that winning is not what matters. What matters is that they are here giving it their best.
There were a few notable fights and events today. The men's 65Kg fight between New Zealand and Sri Lanka was an all out three round war. Sri Lanka came out the victor but the New Zealander will be one to watch in the future. Also, the men's 65Kg between South Africa and Venizuala was a very exciting match. The South African will go far in this competition.
The Vietnamese team did well but more importantly the Vietnamese fans were out in full force. Beating on drums, blowing on horns, running through the stands waving flags. They got the entire crowd into it and really created an atmosphere for some good fights.
We haven't got the schedule yet for tomorrow but we're sure it will be Bart and Alanna's turns to step into the ring. I think Shane might have to wait another day. There are only 6 competitors in his division.
Other notes, Ayron broke his finger tonight helping Bruce to warm up. He was working the pads with him and Bruce threw a kick that crunched Ayron's right hand, ring finger. Fortunately, we have two doctors here with us (parents of one of the Talou competitors). They set it for him and taped it up with a makeshift splint made out of a fork from the hotel restaurant. We have travel medical insurance but the doctors didn't think it was serious enough to go to the hospital here. Also, it was my birthday today and Ayron took me to the Clinique store here (yes there is a Clinique store here). I went a little crazy but my face feels so clean now! It was sorely needed after nearly a week in all of this smog and grime.
I'm sorry I haven't been able to upload any photos. The hotel's computer tells me I don't have "sufficient security" to load hardware. I'll try to get to an interenet cafe soon and see if I can do it from there.
Please send all your good butt kicking vibes our way for tomorrow's fights.
Love to all.
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Mike L.
non-member comment
Some butting kicking vibes from me. Sounds like an excellent learning experience for you all. Will go to HsingI today and chat up your latest news with the gang. Take care.