UMKS Regional Martial Arts Invitational: A Memorable Celebration of Skill, Community, and Friendship Across Styles
On October 5, 2024, martial artists from across the region gathered at the RiverPlex Arena in Peoria, Illinois, for the highly anticipated UMKS Regional Martial Arts Invitational. Hosted by United Mirae Kuk Sool (UMKS), this thrilling event brought competitors together for an exciting day of martial arts excellence, camaraderie, and competition.
The invitational showcased the best in martial arts, from Mirae Ki Cho Hyung Finals to various competitive events where students demonstrated their prowess across forms, sparring, weapons, fight choreography, techniques, and more. This year’s event emphasized not only athleticism but also dedication, discipline, and sportsmanship.
In addition to showcasing Kuk Sool practitioners, we were excited to open some events to competitors from all martial art styles. We welcomed martial artists practicing Tae Kwon Do and Karate, who competed alongside Kuk Sool practitioners in events such as Empty Hand Forms, Open Weapons Forms, Breaking, and Sparring. It was inspiring to see practitioners of different disciplines unite for friendly competition, forging lifelong memories and demonstrating that martial arts is truly a shared journey.
Mirae Ki Cho Hyung Finalists
These competitors stood out in the Mirae Ki Cho Hyung event for their incredible performances:
- Dahn Bo Nim Adam Oh – 6-9 years (Sah Do Mu Sul)
- Dahn Bo Nim Isla Keeter – 10-12 years (Pivot Point)
- Jo Kyo Nim Johnathan Nieters – 13-15 years (Sah Do Mu Sul)
- Kyo Sa Nim Samuel Wright – 16-17 years (Pivot Point)
- Bu Sa Bum Nim Kenny Wright – 18-29 years (Pivot Point)
- Kyo Sa Nim Zach Miller – 30+ years (St. Paul Martial Arts)
After intense competition, BSBN Kenny Wright emerged as the Mirae Ki Cho Hyung Champion, showcasing remarkable skill and precision.
Grand Champions
This year’s Grand Champions are recognized for their exceptional all-around martial arts abilities:
- JKN Maximus Shields – 10 years and younger, 1st Dahn (24 points) – Sah Do Mu Sul
- JKN Mason Dykstra – 11-12 years, 1st Dahn (24 points) – Sah Do Mu Sul
- JKN William Hepperman – 13-14 years, 1st Dahn (22 points) – Sah Do Mu Sul
- JKN Johnathan Nieters – 15-17 years, 1st Dahn (19 points) – Sah Do Mu Sul
- JKN Annie Gregory – 18+ years, 1st Dahn (21 points) – Burlingame Martial Arts
- KSN Gianna Fleites – Youth (17 years and younger), 2nd Dahn (28 points) – Sah Do Mu Sul
- KSN Zach Miller – 18+ years, 2nd Dahn (28 points) – St. Paul Martial Arts
- BSBN Natalie Rector – 3rd Dahn (35 points) – Sah Do Mu Sul
- SBN Andrew Janes – 4th Dahn (23 points) – Sah Do Mu Sul
The energy throughout the competition was electric, with participants giving their all and spectators cheering them on. While medals and titles were awarded, the true essence of the event lay in the shared experiences, friendships, and personal growth achieved by every competitor.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to all the competitors, families, instructors, and volunteers who made the UMKS Regional Martial Arts Invitational such a success. Your dedication and enthusiasm reflect the true spirit of martial arts.
We look forward to seeing everyone again next year! Until then, keep training, stay motivated, and strive for excellence!
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