Stick fighting tournaments

[yomitche]

Hey all!  I'm new to the board, but very excited/interested in the content.  I would just like to get an impression about how others here feel about the value of participating in various stickfighting tournaments.  I've noticed quite a few opportunities around the country through various organizations and wonder how these events are generally received by DBMA.  I understand the padded stick format, or even WEKAF body armor style and "limited" contact (prohibiting the use of kicks or grappling in some cases) may not be consistent with the Dog Brothers philosophy, but wonder how others here might feel about the value of these formats to improve general skills.  How was the experience of those here who might have participated in these type events in the past?


Thanks in advance for any input you can provide.

Y.

[ryangruhn]

I have done several non-gathering stickfighting events, one which was very close to DBMA (sled dog was the judge  ) not my fight but from the same event - http://youtube.com/watch?v=FPHowqc8fh0 .  I believe any experience is good.  Others that I have done do not allow kicking, punching, grappling, etc. but I still found them to be valuable to my growth.  I have since decided to only stick with the gatherings but plan on taking some of my fighters to WEKAF style events to get some experience before we get them out to a gathering.  In my eyes as long as you are having fun and learning that is all that matters. 

Gruhn

[yomitche]

Thanks a lot for your input!  I also feel that I should concentrate on non DBMA events before even checking into attending a gathering (so I can work on gaining experience like your newer fighters).  Being newer to the FMA styles, I'd really like to develop my skills in a challenging or competitive manner so I'm not just swingin' for the fences.
Thanks again!
Y.

[ryangruhn]

My main reason for doing smaller events is simply because we are about 3,00 miles away from R1 so it takes a bit of planning and coin to get out there.  Jumping at the chance to get in some sparring with other people at WEKAF events for under $50 for the trip is hard to pass up.  However, I do believe that if I was closer I would take the guys I have interested in fighting directly to the gathering.

Gruhn

[bjung]

I think there is a clip of Top Dog and Salty Dog fighting WEKAF style on the first Grandfathers video.

I tried WEKAF once. It's fun. I feel there is a slightly different skill set involved. Most players seem to try to hit a patterned flow. It's useful for developing the ability to hit rapidly with a light stick. Depending how you play, you might also develop good use of your off hand too. Any type of situation that is going to bring you into the adrenal state is good. Since the scope of a WEKAF fight is limited just be aware that you should also develop your footwork, power, grappling, etc. Train hard, have fun.