World Combat Games

[GeneChing]

Combat Games Beijing 8/28-9/4/2010

SportAccord Combat Games Beijing Website (http://sports.tom.com/combatbeijing2010/)

From the SportAccord (http://www.agfisonline.com/vsite/vnavsite/page/directory/0,10853,5148-197860-215083-nav-list,00.html)website:

In March 2009, SportAccord signed an agreement with the city of Beijing, P. R. China, to organise the first SportAccord Combat Games. Scheduled from 28 August to 4 September 2010, the competition will showcase 13 Martial Arts and Combat sports, both Olympic and non-Olympic. The event will also include a Cultural Program that will reflect the social and cultural values of these sports and Combat Games as a whole.

Each sport will have 80 top athletes competing in the 2010 SportAccord Combat Games. These athletes will go through the qualification system set up by their respective International Federation. It is expected that the world best martial arts and combat sports athletes will qualify for the Combat Games. Both male and female athletes will take part. For those sports requiring weigh-in, different weight categories will be included.

During the eight days of competition, the 2010 SportAccord Combat Games will also include a cultural programme. Indeed, martial arts and combat sports have rich cultural heritages and convey social and educational values. The Combat Games will then serve as a great opportunity to enable deeper understanding of the sports by the public.


Looking to use venues, China flexes its muscles and lands the 'Combat Games' (http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5hk8rAFLgexiE9dhwRrjT5vg_MTow)
By Stephen Wade (CP) – 1 day ago

China's growing role in world sports is in the spotlight again, with top leaders of the 2008 Beijing Olympics coming together to organize a new multi-sport event featuring 13 fighting disciplines.

The Combat Games is the brainchild of former International Olympic Committee member Hein Verbruggen, who headed the IOC body that advised the Chinese in organizing the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Verbruggen, a staunch defender of the Beijing Olympics as a "catalyst for change" in the authoritarian state, is back in China calling on old friendships as the new head of SportAccord, which represents 87 international sports federations.

The triple alliance of Verbruggen, China and the international federations, promises to be powerful and could threaten smaller, regional games. It's also another sign of China's clout as a rising economic and political power.

"We built up good personal relationships with people and I enjoy coming back to Beijing," Verbruggen said in an interview with The Associated Press.

The Combat Games will feature mostly East Asian specialties and will include: aikido, boxing, ju-jitsu, judo, karate, kendo, kickboxing, muaythai, sambo, sumo, taekwondo, wrestling and wushu. The format could prove attractive, giving fans a chance to see many little-known sports with 1,200 athletes competing in three venues used for the Beijing Olympics.

Though Beijing officials were faulted by human rights groups for detaining dissidents, blocking some Internet sites and throwing up intense security around the Olympic Green area, there were few complaints about the organization.

"What we offer going to China is a top event that is going to be very well organized," Verbruggen said. "There will be no organizational problems so we can set the standard very high if we decide to do this again in two years."

To launch the venture, Verbruggen said he was drawing on a friendship with Liu Jingmin, who was executive vice-president of Beijing organizing committee and the No. 2 man to Liu Qi, head of the Beijing Communist Party and the games' top Chinese official.

Verbruggen said SportAccord had already generated about US$2.5 million from marketing and the sale of TV rights from the Combat Games.

"In fact we apply a system in which we ask an award fee," he said. "This fee includes the host city's rights to organize our event, as well as the right to the largest part of the marketing and TV rights."

Verbruggen said he was hoping to build up SportAccord because smaller federations lack the money and staff to tackle problems like doping and illegal betting.

The body represents giants like FIFA, the world governing body of soccer, down to the Tug of War International Federation and the World Darts Federation.

"The challenges that these international federations face are increasing," Verbruggen said. "And the autonomy of our sports and our sports organizations are under pressure because of governments getting more and more involved."

What Verbruggen called the "Beijing legacy" is also extending to the Chinese city of Nanjing, which is close to signing a contract to host the Mind Games in 2011, another event being organized by SportAccord. It will feature games such as chess.

Nanjing was also named the host city for the 2014 Youth Games, an IOC event. Plans are also in the works for Beach Games in 2012, which are unlikely to be in China. Verbruggen suggested Hawaii, California, Brazil, Australia or New Zealand as possible venues.

The approach in the Combat Games is to focus on a group of sports rather than a huge buffet of disparate events. The Aug. 28-Sept. 4 games will give the stage to sports that are very popular but have been mostly left out of the Olympics.

The inclusion of wushu, a catch-all term for Chinese martial arts, is sure to please the Chinese.

Chinese officials lobbied hard to have wushu included in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. They were turned down repeatedly, but got around the refusal by staging the "Wushu Tournament Beijing 2008" during the Olympics.

It was set up to look like an Olympic event and broadcast on TV, though news releases about the event pointed out it was "neither an official event nor an exhibition event of the Olympics Games."

Asked if regional games - such as the South Asian Games and the Caribbean games - might get crowded out of the sports festival market at the expense of new events being offered by SportAccord, Verbruggen replied: "It is possible, but it is certainly not our intention. There is a market there. There is a demand for product ... and we jumped on the occasion."

The Combat Games come in a year when Shanghai is hosting the World Expo and the Asian Games are in Guangzhou. All three are part of the government's use of "soft power" to win friends and cast itself as a non-threatening rising power.

"I think that we've seen changes in China," Verbruggen said. "This country is going through an enormous change. The (Beijing) Games have played a little role in this. ... The speed is tremendous but, of course, for certain people it is never fast enough."

Xu Guoqi, a Beijing-born historian teaching at Hong Kong University, disputed linking the Beijing Games to change in China.

"Any talk of changes ... to a great extent can be read as a pitch ... for selfish reasons," Xu said in an email. "No long-lasting positive political changes took place after the Games. The regime has been more determined to silence any talk of political reforms, to lock up anyone who dares to challenge the dictatorship, and the great wall to stop information flow is higher and stronger."

"A regime which is so desperate with soft power indicates it actually lacks soft power or moral attraction," Xu added.

AP sports writer Stephen Wade covered Beijing for 2½ years in the run-up to the Beijing Games and in its aftermath.
Wushu Aikido Boxing Judo Ju-Jitsu Karate Kendo Kickboxing Muaythai Sambo Sumo Taekwondo Wrestling

[Eddie]

cool! I can actually go watch.
Who wants to join me?

[PlumDragon]

Wushu Aikido Boxing Judo Ju-Jitsu Karate Kendo Kickboxing Muaythai Sambo Sumo Taekwondo Wrestling
A total of 13 arts, mostly East Asian, with a focus on cultural values...And no mention of Arnis? How can this be??

[Mano Mano]

A total of 13 arts, mostly East Asian, with a focus on cultural values...And no mention of Arnis? How can this be??
I noticed that as well.

[GeneChing]

All of those arts are well established internationally. Four are Olympic and two are Olympic I.F. The others all participate in other games like the Asian Games, the Asian Martial Arts Games (http://ezine.kungfumagazine.com/forum/showthread.php?t=53179), the SEA Games (http://ezine.kungfumagazine.com/forum/showthread.php?t=49262), etc. I'm not sure that Arnis is that unified. Please correct me if I'm wrong.

Eddie, you must let us know how this goes!

[PlumDragon]

Gene,

There are several governing bodies for Arnis/Escrima. Arnis Philippines is one, with organizations like WEKAF being more based on producing tournaments on a worldwide scale. And with Arnis now the national Philippine sport, its more "official", albeit its always been a fairly hosuehold name to people living in the PI. As my line of Arnis is a family system I dont know much about these governing bodies other than that they exist. But with FMA in general being among the faster growing of martial arts systems at present, and also having a presence in Eastern Asia, its unfortunate that its not being represented at the event.

[GeneChing]

A sport needs one international governing body to play in any international game. That's what the I.F. stands for in the Olympic bid process - international federation.

I'm more disappointed that MMA isn't represented. But that's another can of worms when it comes to international governing bodies.

[GeneChing]

Almost forgot about this one.

POSTED: Friday August 20th 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jet Li Ambassador for SportAccord World Combat Games 2010 (http://www.sportsfeatures.com/presspoint/pressrelease/51533/jet-li-ambassador-for-sportaccord-world-combat-games-2010)

International movie star Jet Li will be Ambassador for Wushu at the SportAccord Combat Games starting August 28 in Beijing.

Having won 15 gold medals in Chinese Wushu Championships, Jet Li is a perfect representative for this martial art. SportAccord President Hein Verbruggen: "We are very honoured to welcome Jet as Ambassador. He is not only a famous actor and a great Wushu champion but shows also outstanding social commitment."
Jet Li will take part in several activities of the Ambassador Program and will support the promotion of Wushu and the martial arts in general.

About Jet Li:
Born in Beijing, Jet Li began studying Wushu at the age of 8. After three years of extensive training, Li won his first national championship for the Beijing Wushu Team.
Shortly after retiring from the sport at the age of 17, his film career kicked off with Shaolin Temple. Today his film credits include Lethal Weapon 4, Romeo Must Die, The One, Kiss of the Dragon, and Hero. Li's upcoming release is named The Warlords.
Li is a Red Cross ambassador and he founded the One Foundation whose aim is to help young people cope with mental well-being and find a balance in life.

About SportAccord:
SportAccord is the umbrella organisation for 104 International Sports Federations and Organisations. It’s mission is to support and to protect the common interests of the sports movement. Activities include the online video portal Sports Hub, the organisation of multi-sports games, doping-free sport, and sports social responsibility.

For more information:
http://sports.tom.com/combatbeijing2010/index.html
http://www.sportaccord.com
http://jetli.com/

[bawang]

why dont olympics just revive pankration? it wil b ossum. i think olympics comittee is full of big hairy *****. pankration was the main event of ancient olympics and they dont want it. THIS ISNT OLYMPICS THIS IS BIG PHONY THEY R PHONYS

[GeneChing]

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/indepth/2010-08/24/13459779_11n.jpg


Martial arts gala packs punch (http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/indepth/2010-08/24/c_13459779.htm)
English.news.cn 2010-08-24 15:57:54

BEIJING, Aug. 24 (Xinhuanet) -- With only a few days left before the kick-off of a massive martial arts gala, organizers of the Sportaccord Combat Games 2010 Beijing say they are ready to rumble and expecting a tournament to remember.

Rehearsals for the Aug 28 opening ceremony in the National Indoor Stadium went off without a hitch on Monday afternoon.

The ceremony, which will be witnessed by thousands and involve athletes from more than 100 countries, will not only feature various martial arts displays but include singers and performers from Asia and beyond.

Tata Young, a famous pop singer from Thailand who is among those invited to perform, said she was impressed by the "spectacular and powerful" event.

"It was especially powerful when I saw the people involved - old and young, men and women, and all of them gave their spectacular performances on the stage," she said.

A Japanese singer who is also taking part said the tournament is sure to be something special.

"No matter which sport or martial art is on display, as long as I see someone working hard and fighting for their dreams and never giving up, I will be deeply moved," said Kousuke Atari.

The opening ceremony will be broadcast live on Saturday night.

Jet Li, the Chinese kungfu star, will represent Chinese martial arts and light the torch. Jackie Chan, another famous kungfu star, will also take part, performing the event's theme song, Tian Xing Jian.

Chan, who flew to Beijing on Friday to record the song, told media he hopes Chinese martial arts will eventually be accepted as an official event at the Olympic Games.

The Sportaccord Combat Games 2010 Beijing will continue from Aug 28 to Sept 4 and is being billed as the biggest comprehensive international sports event to be held in the capital since the Summer Olympic Games in 2008.

The world's top 20 exponents of the martial arts, as selected by the World Sport Association, will be among those competing in the 13 programs, which will include Chinese martial arts, Japanese sumo and Muay Thai.

Li Weidong, director of the Olympic Sports Center Stadium, said preparations at the venue are already complete.

As one of three venues hosting events during the eight-day competition, it will see competition between 300 athletes from 67 countries.

"The time schedule is very tight, but we are sure that things will go smoothly because we have rehearsed several times," he said.

(Source: China Daily)
I just had to know more about a Thai pop star named Tata Young. Here's her official site. (http://www.tatayoung.com/) And here's... um...here's Tata
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_1SZA2_cFaqY/R0iRbh8AETI/AAAAAAAAAoE/VELht4w_xvo/tata-young-sexy6.jpg

Interestingly enough, the World Combat Games in Beijing is happening at the same time as the HK International Wushu Competition (http://www.hkwushuschool.com/eng/home.asp).

[GeneChing]

Are there any U.S. athletes at this?

China form 64-athlete delegation to Sportaccord Combat Games (http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/sports/2010-08/24/c_13459904.htm)
English.news.cn 2010-08-24 18:29:16

BEIJING, Aug. 24 (Xinhua) -- The State General Administration of Sport (SGAS) on Tuesday launched the Chinese delegation to the Sportaccord Combat Games which is to open here on Aug. 28.

The Games, which will run through to Sept. 4, features 13 martial arts and combat sports, both Olympic and non-Olympic.

Sixty-four Chinese athletes will take part in nine sports, namely, wrestling, judo, boxing, taekwondo, karate, Wushu (Taolu and Sanda), Muay Thai boxing, kickboxing and kendo.

Spearheading the Chinese delegation are Olympic boxing champion Zou Shiming and taekwondo Olympic gold medalist Wu Jingyu.

"We would help promote communication and friendship rather than fight for medals during the Games," said chef-de-mission Xiao Tian.

Xiao, also a SGAS deputy director, noted Japan and South Korea have already built their delegations.

Xiao promised to send a "clean" Chinese team to the games.

"The Chinese sports authorities have zero tolerance for doping," he said.

The 2010 Sportaccord Combat Games will attract 3,000 athletes from all over the world, most of them ranked among top 20 in their sports.

[GeneChing]

Does anyone here know anyone going to this?

Beijing's biggest event since 2008 (http://sports.globaltimes.cn/moresports/2010-08/567711.html)
* Source: Global Times
* [01:32 August 27 2010]
By Li Zhenyu

Beijing is about to host one of the biggest international sporting events the capital city has ever seen since the 2008 Olympics. The 2010 SportAccord Combat Games is the first of its kind and runs from Saturday to September 4.

The Combat Games showcase 13 major categories of martial arts and combat sports, both Olympic and non-Olympic, and provides a unique opportunity for all major combat sports to shine on one stage together.

More than 1,000 fighters mostly ranked among the top 20 in their respective combat disciplines from over 66 countries and regions will gather in the Olympic city for the first edition of the quadrennial event.

Kung Fu stars Jackie Chan and Jet Li, renowned MMA fighter Fedor Emelyanenko, legendary judoka Robert Van de Walle and kickboxing legend Don Wilson, are among big names who will attend.

China's State General Administration of Sport confirmed it will send a squad of 64 top-tier athletes from nine sports categories: Wushu, boxing, taekwondo, judo, wrestling, kickboxing, Muay Thai, karate and kendo. Leading the team are China's grand slam boxing champion Zou Shiming and Olympic taekwondo gold medalist Wu Jingyu.

Three former Olympic venues have been selected for the Games, which are expected to attract more than 100,000 spectators.

As a global event, the Combat Games will also speed up the process of Chinese martial arts' standardization and globalization.

"I think the global event would help promote cultural communication and in part serves as a window for Wushu to present itself to the world," said Xiao Tian, vice minister of the General Administration of Sport. "We didn't set any gold medal goal for it."


China: Beijing puts dissidents under house arrest ahead of martial arts Olympics (http://www.speroforum.com/site/article.asp?id=38793&t=China%3A+++Beijing+puts+dissidents+under+house+a rrest+ahead+of+martial+arts+Olympics)
Dissidents and democrats removed from the city or put under surveillance before Beijing hosts the sporting event. The powerful China increasingly afraid of any protest and "removes" dissidents several times a year.
Friday, August 27, 2010
By Asia News

Beijing (AsiaNews / Agencies) - Qi Zhiyong has been disabled since he was injured during the Tiananmen Square protests of 3-4 June 1989, when the army crushed the pro-democracy student protests. On 24 August the police loaded him into a car and secreted him outside Beijing to an unknown destination where he is being kept under"house arrest".

Qi Zhiyong (see photo) on the night of the massacre was shot in the leg. He was taken to hospital three hours later. His leg beca,e infected and doctors were forced to amputate it. Speaking to Radio Free Asia, Qi said that "the police say it is because of Sportaccord Combat Games".

The Sportaccord Combat Games, the first international martial arts competition will be held in Beijing from August 28 to September 4. It involves thousands of athletes around the world in 13 different disciplines, from Korean taekwondo to Chinese kung fu and Thai muaythai or kick boxing. They are called the "Olympics of martial arts” and aim to encourage the admission of new sports to the Olympic Games. The event will be covered by television worldwide. The Hollywood star Jackie Chan, a kung fu expert, travelled to Beijing this week to record a song that will be the anthem of the competition. Chan has recently filmed the movie The Karate Kid, set in a modern prosperous, and technological China, free from problems, due to be released.

Qi said that the police is forcibly removing all the democrats and dissidents from Beijing to prevent public protests. They said that "with all probability I'll be free in early September. They themselves do not know when". "Through Twitter I sent a message to Li Jinping, who wanted to hold a demonstration" for the rehabilitation of former premier Zhao Ziyang, the restoration of [guarantees provided by] the Chinese Constitution and for greater political power to the people".

Li is a dissident who for years has been fighting for the public rehabilitation of former premier Zhao, disgraced for opposing the use of the army against the student movement of 1989 and who died in 2005 under house arrest.

Qi also makes a long list of other democrats and dissidents who have been put under surveillance or house arrest in recent days, such as Wang Xueqin, Hu Shigeno, and Gao Hongming Liu Shasha. He notes that before these "raids" occurred only during major political events and anniversaries. Now they are also made for a sporting event such as the Combat Games.

"The police – he says - said it was an international event with many foreign visitors, which held for the first time in Beijing necessitating security measures."

The dissident Wu Tianli says that it has become common practise for police to put all possible dissenters under control prior to any event, "be it major or minor." "Before [the police] could put you under surveillance maybe twice a year. Now its 4 or 5 times. We are put under surveillance for everything. "

From Beijing, away from all this, Chan said the state newspaper China Daily that he loves wushu (kung fu) and that he hopes it will be included in the Olympics. It really is another China.


Beijing police stage full-scale exercises (http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/90001/90783/91300/7120495.html)
16:58, August 27, 2010

Beijing police staged full-scale exercises in Olympic Sports Center, the University of Science and Technology Beijing (USTB) Gymnasium recently and other two venues and four dwelling places recently to improve the actual combat and emergency capability. Some 11 kinds of police separately staged exercises in accordance with the 67 predetermined plans. Since Aug. 27, all the venues and dwelling places designed for the exercises were closed down. Beijing police took various measures to ensure the security and success of Sportaccord Combat Games.
http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/mediafile/201008/27/P201008271659122297296001.jpg
http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/mediafile/201008/27/P201008271659354639562890.jpg
http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/mediafile/201008/27/P201008271659192853743644.jpg

[KC Elbows]

So...

It's okay to post Tata pics?

[Syn7]

u think the guy covering his head knew it was a drill?


i didnt realise the games were that big... or do they do this anytime international media may be en masse???


u think theres metal in them gloves, or just padding?


and i cant help but notice the one guy holding his piece sideways like a thug... anyone who knows how to shoot a handgun knows thats a no no... number one cause of wrist injury in the hood:rolleyes:

[Kansuke]

i didnt realise the games were that big...



I didn't know Tata was that big, but bit tatas are always a good thing.

[sanjuro_ronin]

Not bad Tata's at all
http://iphonewallpapersx.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/tatayoung.jpg

[GeneChing]

Meanwhile, check out the Muay Thai Ambassador

Muaythai Ambassador---Gavintra Photijak (http://www.beijing2010.org/2010-08-09/0OUD/26624978.html)

Gavintra Photijak was born on 24 December 1986 in Nongkhai, Thailand.

On May 24, 2007, she competed in the Miss Thailand Universe pageant held in Bangkok in which she won and was crowned.

She represented Thailand in the Miss Universe 2008 pageant held in Nha Trang, Vietnam, in which she won Best National Costume Award.

http://www.beijing2010.org/uimg/2010/8/9/dongsheng/1281338623226_33961.jpg
http://www.beijing2010.org/uimg/2010/8/9/dongsheng/1281338623560_47215.jpg
http://www.beijing2010.org/uimg/2010/8/9/dongsheng/1281338624021_29550.jpg
http://www.beijing2010.org/uimg/2010/8/9/dongsheng/1281338624311_42242.jpg
What is it about Thailand women and this event anyway? :rolleyes:

If those gloves have metal inserts, Syn7, I want a pair.

[GeneChing]

http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/08udfFv84fddt/340x.jpg
http://www.nbc.com/Miss_Universe_2008/images/bios/TH.jpg
http://www.asiantribune.com/files/images/Miss%20Universe%208.jpg
In the wake of Miss Universe (http://ezine.kungfumagazine.com/forum/showthread.php?t=57280) no less.

[sanjuro_ronin]

u think theres metal in them gloves, or just padding?
There are different types, some have lead in them, the "poor man's IP" ;)
Those look to have less than the ones I have seen and used.
They work not only to protect the hand but to add a special touch when H2H becomes a viable option.

[GeneChing]

Splendor of Combat Games' Opening Ceremony (http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/90001/90776/90882/7122508.html)
16:28, August 30, 2010

The splendor of 2010 SportAccord Combat Games' opening ceremony [Photo: People's Daily online/Zhenyu Li]

The inaugural 2010 Beijing SportAccord Combat Games, attracting more than 1000 top athletes from over 60 countries and regions, kicked off on August 28, 2010. The opening ceremony of the SportAccord Combat Games took place on the same day, attracting more than ten thousand spectators.

Over 1,000 actors participated in the opening ceremony, including international kungfu movie stars Jackie Chan, renowned Italian soprano Giorgia Fumanti and Japanese singer Atari Kosuke ect.

Such kungfu stars and sports legends as Jet Li, Fedor Emelyanenko, Robert Van de Walle, Don Wilson and other big names who represent the Combat Games' 13 martial arts disciplines also showed up at the ceremony, a spectacular show that recounts the tradition of Chinese martial arts and the evolution of world combat sports.

The aim of the Combat Games is to promote cultural communication and friendship rather than fight for medals.

http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/mediafile/201008/30/P201008301632024925111031.jpg
http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/mediafile/201008/30/P201008301634432875435163.jpg
http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/mediafile/201008/30/P201008301635058327814727.jpg
http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/mediafile/201008/30/P201008301635401490511823.jpg
http://english.peopledaily.com.cn/mediafile/201008/30/P201008301636058085244832.jpg


China dominates in wushu competition (http://www.globaltimes.cn/www/english/metro-beijing/update/society/2010-08/568330.html)
* Source: Global Times
* [09:11 August 30 2010]
By Li Yanhui

Chinese athletes won 10 of the 13 possible gold medals for wushu in the first two days of the inaugural SportAccord Combat Games at the National Indoor Stadium, reviving discussions of whether wushu should be an Olympic sport.

The SportAccord Combat Games 2010 Beijing opened on Saturday, with 22,059 athletes from 105 countries and regions gathering to participate in 13 martial arts and combat events, including wushu.

The Combat Games were sponsored by the General Association of International Sports Federations (GAISF) and will be held every four years. This year's games run until September 4 in Beijing.

Kung fu movie stars Jackie Chan and Jet Li both attended the opening ceremony, with Chan crooning the Combat Games' theme song, accompanied by foreign wushu perfomers hailing from the US, UK, Canada and elsewhere, according to the Beijing News.

However, the two movie stars held differing opinions on whether wushu should be included in the Olympic Games.

Wushu was exhibited during the 2008 Olympics, raising hopes for its eventual inclusion, as happened for judo.

Chan told the Beijing News that wushu brought him global popularity, and that people of all nationalities and races come to China to learn wushu. "I'm proud of Chinese wushu and often feels regret that wushu isn't included in the Olympics," Chan said, further guessing that Chinese wushu perhaps has too many styles and schools to be recognized as one sport. He hoped to combine the different styles into a united image that would enable wushu to be considered for inclusion.

Li held the opposite opinion. Now 40, he's practiced wushu since the age of 8. He suggested taiji as a better fit for the Olympics. "I don't think wushu will be accepted by the Olympics, but I will make every effort for the rest of my life to promote taiji to the Olympics, as there are 130 million taiji fans in the world," he told the Liaoning-based Huashang Morning Post Saturday. Li said he hoped taiji will be recognized by the Olympics in the next 15 to 20 years.

The Secretary-General of the International Wushu Federation Wang Youlin told the Beijing Times that Li's suggestion should be an option, but "Chinese wushu is too profound. Its promotion should be simplified to meet the global circumstances. Then people can love it easily."

But he also pointed out that the Olympics are trying to reduce the number of involved sports. "If wushu can be listed as an Olympic sport, then one of the other 28 sports would have to quit," he said.

http://www.globaltimes.cn/attachment/100830/ee5d05b837.jpg
Chinese athlete E Meidie won the gold medal in a Wushu Sanshou division after defeating a Turkish rival. Photo: Xin

[GeneChing]

POSTED: Saturday August 28th 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
First medals decided at World Combat Games (http://www.sportsfeatures.com/presspoint/pressrelease/51564/first-medals-decided-at-world-combat-games)

Beijing, Aug 28: A historic moment for the World Combat Games: Jia Rui, Macau Wushu fighter, is the first athlete to win a gold medal in the SportAccord World Combat Games ever.

With amazingly liquid motions he scores 9.80 in Men’s Changquan.

In Women’s Jianshu, Zheng Tianhui from Hong Kong astounds the audience and the judges with an extraordinary performance. She scores 9.80 and wins both Jianshu and Quiangshu.

Iranian athlete Farshadarabi wins Men’s Nagun with 9.80.

Taicheauxuen from Malaysia achieves the highest score in Women’s Nanquan and excites the spectators.

The most competitive game is Men’s Gunshu. With a score of 9.87, Lu Yongxu wins the first gold medal for host country China.

Taijiquan is accompanied by music. Ng Shin Yii from Malaysia performs outstandingly and ranks first.

The last champion of the evening comes again from China. Huang Yingqi scores 9.86 and makes the audience happy winning the second gold medal for China.

12 medals were issued today in Sumo, all were taken by athletes either from Japan, Ukraine or Russia. Ukrainian Middleweight Sumo fighter Maryna Pryshchepa is the first Sumo champion of the SportAccord World Combat Games. In a thrilling fight she defeated her Russian opponent Anna Alexandrowa (RUS) Pryshchepa’s team colleague Maryna Maksymenko (UKR) was third.

Heavyweight was dominated by Anna Zhigalova (RUS) who beat Olga Davydenko (UKR) easily. The bronze medal went to Japan player Ueta Yuka.

Middleweight champion Ryo Ito (JPN) defeated in the gold medal fight his team mate Katsuo Yoshida (JPN) and became the first male Champion of these SportAccord World Combat Games. Third was Yevgen Kozlyatin (UKR).

In Heavyweight, Alan Karaev was the only one who could break Japanese dominance. Beyond all expectations, he won his gold medal fight Hiroaki Tanaka (JPN). Fighting for bronze, Tomita Genki (JPN) held his nerve to beat Byambajav Ulambayar from Mongolia.

Here's an unexpected take on sumo.

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/sports/2010-08/29/13468086_11n.jpg
A Japanese player (R) and a Ukrainian player (L) are ready to compete at the SportAccord Games in Beijing on Aug. 28, 2010. (Xinhua Photo)

Europe in favor of Japanese traditional sport sumo (http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/sports/2010-08/29/c_13468086.htm)
English.news.cn 2010-08-29 16:25:15
By sportswriter Lin Deren

BEIJING, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- "At the sumo world championships, eighty percent of the gold medals go to Europe," said Stephen Gadd, the General Secretary of European sumo union, at the first SportAccord Combat Games here on Sunday.

At the SportAccord Games European players excelled their Asian opponents to collect seven of all the eight gold medals. Sumo, which is traditionally a Japanese-only sport, has found its root in Europe.

There are currently 27 members in the European Sumo Union, more than any other continental sumo union on the world. "We are the most active union, holding 20-25 international tournaments every year," said Gadd.

Russian sumo head coach Gennady Kaletkin introduced that about 2000 Russians are doing sumo at the moment. In Bulgaria, the number goes to as many as 500-600.

In 1992, Japan organized an international sumo competition in 1992, inviting athletes from all over the world to try the mysterious sport. It is at that time that the Europeans began to know about sumo. In 1995, a couple of Japanese sponsors designed a series of tournaments in Europe, revealing the Japan-based event to the continent.

Boele Venhvizen, director of the referee committee on the sumo event at the SportAccord Combat Game, released the reason for the speedy popularization of sumo in Europe.

"Many of the European players used to be wrestlers, Judo players or boxers. They are traditionally quick and strong, so there is no difficulty for them to turn to sumo," said Venhvizen.

Kaletkin also admitted that Russia's domination of sumo is due to the strong combating tradition and enthusiasm in wrestling.

Most European sumo athletes also participate in judo, boxing or wrestling competitions. The multi-cultural environment enables them to learn a new sport faster and better.

At the moment, Bulgaria, Russia, Netherland and other European countries are busy developing sumo in all ages.

"Every sumo competition will attract lots of spectators in Ukraine, and they are interested in the sport," said Maryna Pryshchepa from Ukraine, the champion from women's middle-weight at the SportAccord Games.

[Xiao3 Meng4]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ln0TinZ4DTE - Nice little promo.

[Syn7]

There are different types, some have lead in them, the "poor man's IP" ;)
Those look to have less than the ones I have seen and used.
They work not only to protect the hand but to add a special touch when H2H becomes a viable option.


for cops??? or just in general... it looks like it could be small matel plates in those gloves in that pic but it could just be double up leather or something... either way, i wanna pair:D

i got punched in the side of the head with brass knuckles once... man i cant tell you how much that hurt... they work really well man... it made me do the pumpkin dance before i got my witts back... unfortunately by the time i got the fuzz outta my head i was being kicked on the ground... but i managed to get back up and dish out some more martial love... it was a good fight... only had to get two stitches... not bad...

[sanjuro_ronin]

for cops??? or just in general... it looks like it could be small matel plates in those gloves in that pic but it could just be double up leather or something... either way, i wanna pair:D

i got punched in the side of the head with brass knuckles once... man i cant tell you how much that hurt... they work really well man... it made me do the pumpkin dance before i got my witts back... unfortunately by the time i got the fuzz outta my head i was being kicked on the ground... but i managed to get back up and dish out some more martial love... it was a good fight... only had to get two stitches... not bad...

Typically for riot police and SWAT teams.
Civilians can order them I think, from the net of course.
http://www.tbotech.com/sap-gloves.htm

[GeneChing]

Alfred is representing the U.S. for wushu changquan along with Sarah Chang (changquan) & Peter Dang (Wushu Daoshu & Gunshu all-around Men). We didn't field any sanshou competitors.


Wrestler R.Gantogs Settles for Silver in Combat Games (http://ubpost.mongolnews.mn/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5252)
Written by Kh.Ganchimeg
Tuesday, August 31, 2010.

Mongolian sumo wrestler R.Gantogs grabbed a silver medal in Sportaccord Combat Games Beijing 2010, which kicked off on August 28, 2010.

On the Men’s Lightweight (85kg), R.Gantogs lost his final game to Russian Nachyn Mongush and Nachyn toppled Gantogs by kala-sukashi rapidly. The final just took five seconds. The bronze was secured by Shimako Takashi from Japan.

One of Mongolian participants is O.Osokhbayar who finished the seventh place in 85kg weight category. Osokhbayar beats Jackrapon Choarungmet (Thailand) and Travis Bleg and then he had been beaten by Stilian Georgiev (Bulgaria) and Takashi Shimako (Japan).

U.Byambajav selected in the tournament of bronze medal defeating by Russian Artur Bagaev, K.Neiting (USA) and G.Tomita (Japan). But, Byambajav played against Japanese Shimako Takashi for a bronze medal but he had been beaten by his opponent in the heavyweight match (+115kg). Alan Karaev from Russia won the gold medal by beating Japanese Tanaka Hiroaki in that event.

World Amateur Sumo Champion G.Naranbat and Ts.Myagmarsuren from Mongolia took part in the +115kg weight class. G.Naranbat lost a game to his opponent El Saied from Egypt and M.Matsuna (Japan) won Mongolian Myagmarsuren in the event.

In addition, over 1,500 athletes from 60 countries are competing in 13 different sport’s events, including sumo, wushu, boxing, aikido, judo, ju-jitsu, karate, kendo, kickboxing, muaythai, sambo, Taekwondo and wrestling at the SportAccord Combat Games.


Russia Fights Off Japan At Combat Games (http://www.aroundtherings.com/articles/view.aspx?id=35487)

Russia is atop the medal table after three days of competition at SportAccord’s inaugural Combat Games in Beijing.

Medals were awarded over the weekend in judo, ju-jitsu, sumo and wushu.

Russia leads with 19 total medals and seven gold. Japan is in second with 13 total but only two gold.

Host country China has 10 total medals, eight of them gold.

Karate and muaythai tournaments begin Tuesday.

More than 1,000 athletes from over 66 countries are participating in 13 fighting disciplines, both Olympic and non-Olympic. Also on the program are aikido, boxing, kendo, kickboxing, sambo, taekwondo and wrestling.

Four Beijing Olympic venues are housing the weeklong competition.

More than 100,000 spectators, including five to 10 IOC members, are expected to attend the Games, SportAccord president Hein Verbruggen told Around the Rings last week.

Events run through Saturday.

There's more news on the official site (http://www.worldcombatgames.com/en/news/).

[GeneChing]

Kung fu clothes take a beating (http://www.globaltimes.cn/www/english/metro-beijing/update/business/2010-09/577693.html)
* Source: Global Times
* [12:14 September 27 2010]
By Wei Na

At the Sportaccord Combat Games held last month in Beijing, combatants dominated the field with martial arts battles like those described in wuxia novels, but at the end of the day many spectators were asking, "Who are they wearing?"

The event's official clothing sponsor was Wesing Sports Goods Co. The Fujian-based company is not a particularly well-known purveyor of activewear, but it's one of the few Chinese manufacturers for specialized athletic gear. "It's not like we're a casual sports brand everyone would at least have heard of," said Hong Fengbo, vice director of marketing at Wesing. "For years we have been exploring and facing the specialized sports market, which is not familiar to most mass-market consumers."

That tide may be changing, however, as Hong said that the eight-day combat sports event was a pretty successful promotion on "a big platform."

"The leader of the Japanese team thinks very highly of our products for combat clothing, which are specially embroidered with dragons and Chinese phoenixes for men and women. And athletes from Thailand asked about our white wushu clothing with the plum blossom pattern," Hong said. "And above all there's been more appreciation and attention from the home market."

The Sportaccord Combat Games demonstrated 13 different types of martial arts and combat sports like Chinese wushu, aikido, judo, kendo and more. And because different styles each have their own ways of dressing, the event was practically a martial arts fashion show.

Lu Yan, who works for the only Wesing store located near Beijing Sports University said, "there have been more inquiries during the past month. They used to all be purchases from government departments, but now there are calls from private martial arts clubs."

Hong said he was glad for the opportunity to advertise Wesing to the Chinese market. "Although we have expanded our business to be more internationally oriented over the past ten years, and we've gradually gained more fame through worldwide competition events, but for the [Sportaccord] games, we were really focusing on the home market consumers, because they have been more aware that martial arts exercises could have physical and mental benefits," Hong said. According to him, Wesing plans to open stores in every province of China over the next three years.

Wesing has successfully been selling martial arts and judo clothes in countries including Spain, Turkey and France. Hong maintains that while it is important to adhere to tradition when it comes to martial arts clothes, that doesn't mean they can't have a little fun.

"Clothing for martial arts has long histories and certain meanings to represent, but that doesn't mean there're no changes," he said. "We have made improvements to keep the style fresh, but we think Chinese cultural elements are key to attracting foreign customers' eyes." Other than that, there have been functional improvements concerning the material, comfort and durability. Now on the market, a man's free-combat costume is priced at around 90 yuan. Kickboxing competition clothing runs about 210 yuan, and outfits for Chinese wushu are 220 yuan for one set. A padded judo uniform could be priced as high as 1,050 yuan. When asked why the combat clothing all tends to be expensive, Hong explained that the clothes are meant to take a beating, so there are certain standards that must be maintained, like durability and washability, which lead to a higher cost.
http://www.globaltimes.cn/attachment/100927/cb92e2b347.jpg
And I did get a story on this for our next issue. :cool:

[GeneChing]

Official website (http://www.worldcombatgames.com/en/)


Putin lauds martial arts at international competition (http://www.upi.com/Sports_News/2013/10/19/Putin-lauds-martial-arts-at-international-competition/UPI-55131382212755/)
Oct. 19, 2013 | 3:59 PM

ST. PETERSBURG, Russia, Oct. 19 (UPI) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin, himself a black belt in judo, lauded the martial arts during opening ceremonies for the World Combat Games.

The international event is being hosted in St. Petersburg through Oct. 26. Putin noted the individual focus and strength needed to succeed in martial arts, RIA Novosti said.

"Various martial arts differ in technique and rules, but they all share the same common principle that fair victory always goes to the genuinely strongest," the Kremlin website quoted Putin as saying. "Not chance but the athlete's own will, and not the team's strength but personal skill and courage decide each combat's outcome. There is no hiding behind your teammates in martial arts."

Putin said 4.5 million Russians practice some form of martial arts, making it one of the country's most popular sports.


Competition includes: Aikido, Boxing, Fencing, Judo, Jiu-Jitsu, Karate, Kendo, Kickboxing, Muay Thai, Sambo, Savate, Sumo, Taekwondo, Wrestling, & Wushu

[lkfmdc]

Gene, not sure if you are aware of the faction of academics who see Russia as an Asian society rather than a part of Europe, citing for example the influence of the Mongol occupation.... the culture's affinity for martial arts certainly is part of that world vision don't you think

[GeneChing]

I've always felt that Russia was its own entity, outside the Europe vs. Asia division. The relationship between Russia and China, especially Mongolia, is fascinating history not taught so much in American schools. But in terms of Asia cultures having more affinity for martial arts, that's a bit of a stretch for me, especially as I come from a tradition of Western fencing, which retains a lot of martial elements and is a martial study of its own. Of course, that makes me biased here, but I'm biased everywhere else, so why not here? Hollywood has romanticized martial arts - orientalized them, if you will, but I'd argue every culture has a martial art tradition. It's just a matter of how that is framed and defined. America has the weakest and yet the most diverse take on the martial arts. We are a young nation, born in the age of firearms. And yet, we're a nation of immigrants, bringing so many cultures into our martial melting pot.

But as for the World Combat Games being hosted in Russia, I think it's all about Putin. He's a ballsy politician. ;)

[lkfmdc]

But in terms of Asia cultures having more affinity for martial arts, that's a bit of a stretch for me, especially as I come from a tradition of Western fencing, which retains a lot of martial elements and is a martial study of its own.



of course the west has martial arts, I am a big fan of western martial arts, boxing, wresstling, savate, can fighting, fencing, etc

I might have mis-spoke or not elaborated

Western martial arts never took on religious, spiritual or mystical qualifites like the fusions that happened in Asia... and in Russian culture they seem to have an affinity to these sorts of traditions

Sambo was pure military martial arts, guts and blood and balls, yet things like "systema" tried to fuse them with mythical mumbo jumbo

Russia sure is unique, but I have seen a lot of asian influence

[bawang]

Western martial arts never took on religious, spiritual or mystical qualifites like the fusions that happened in Asia... and in Russian culture they seem to have an affinity to these sorts of traditions

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M0d4qM7gCH8

[GeneChing]

Western martial arts never took on religious, spiritual or mystical qualifites like the fusions that happened in Asia... The West just lost track of most of that. I blame Descartes. ;) But just looking at fencing (as that's my area of expertise) you'll find plenty of religious, spiritual or mystical qualities in the old texts, particularly with the Spanish schools. The most overt example was Thibault's mystic circle, a complicated system of combat with astrological underpinnings that enjoyed astonishing success in dueling at the time.

[lkfmdc]

The West just lost track of most of that. I blame Descartes. ;) But just looking at fencing (as that's my area of expertise) you'll find plenty of religious, spiritual or mystical qualities in the old texts, particularly with the Spanish schools. The most overt example was Thibault's mystic circle, a complicated system of combat with astrological underpinnings that enjoyed astonishing success in dueling at the time.

meh, Descares....

I just get a more "asian" feel to the way Russians deal with their martial arts....

you know eventually the Spanish lost out

[wenshu]

Knights Templar?

edit: didn't see bawang beat me to it

[lkfmdc]

didn't see bawang beat me

sig worthy :D

[Alex Córdoba]

The West just lost track of most of that. I blame Descartes. ;) But just looking at fencing (as that's my area of expertise) you'll find plenty of religious, spiritual or mystical qualities in the old texts, particularly with the Spanish schools. The most overt example was Thibault's mystic circle, a complicated system of combat with astrological underpinnings that enjoyed astonishing success in dueling at the time.

I had no idea, thx for the info.

Seems more mathematical than mystic but worth a read: http://www2.nau.edu/~wew/other/magic_circle.html

[GeneChing]

Some people get ruffled when politics enter international games. I find it fascinating. In fact, I think it's the very essence of international games.


Egypt kung fu ace 'loses medal over Morsi' (http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2013/10/egypt-kung-fu-ace-loses-medal-over-morsi-2013102991654417999.html)
Officials deny turning against kung fu champion Mohamed Youssef for showing support for deposed President Morsi.
Last Modified: 29 Oct 2013 12:33

http://www.aljazeera.com/mritems/Images/2013/10/29/2013102910915761580_20.jpg
Youssef was shown in Russia wearing a T-shirt with a symbol commemorating the pro-Morsi protest camp [EPA]

The family of an Egyptian kung fu champion says he has been banned from representing the country and stripped of his medal after he showed support for deposed President Mohamed Morsi during a tournament in Russia.

The government, however, has denied taking retaliatory action against Mohamed Youssef.

In a photo on the state-run Al-Ahram website, Youssef was shown on stage in St Petersburg, Russia, holding his medal and wearing a T-shirt with a symbol commemorating the pro-Morsi protest camp that was crushed by security forces on August 14, leaving hundreds dead.

The army overthrew Morsi on July 3 and installed an interim government.

It has since launched a security crackdown on Morsi's Muslim Brotherhood, arresting more than 2,000 members, including Morsi and other senior leaders.

Security forces have killed hundreds of Morsi supporters.

Youssef's brother Hamem told Reuters news agency that he had been removed from a list of eligible kung-fu players in the sport's national federation, and told he could not represent Egypt in future tournaments.

Mohamed Youssef himself was not immediately available for comment.

When asked about the case, Taher Abu Zeid, the sports minister, said Youssef had not been barred from representing Egypt, although he did not mention the medal or the federation.

Zeid told Reuters that he had asked the ministry to conduct an investigation into the incident, but added that if the sportsman had displayed the yellow four-fingered "Rabaa" hand symbol "it was a wrong way to conduct himself".

[GeneChing]

But you guys don't care about the impact CMA might have on world politics. Let's go back to discussing how everyone else's Kung Fu sux....:rolleyes:


Egyptian kung fu gold medalist suspended for Islamist sign (http://www.nydailynews.com/news/world/egyptian-kung-fu-gold-medalist-suspended-islamist-sign-article-1.1499010)
Mohammed Youssef wore a T-shirt depicting an open palm with four yellow fingers, a symbol in support of ousted President Mohammed Morsi.
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Monday, October 28, 2013, 1:31 PM

http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.1499009.1382981320!/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_635/kungfu29n-1-web.jpg
Newspaper Al-Ahram posted a photo of Mohammed Youssef online. It showed the kung fu fighter in a T-shirt with a picture of an open palm with four yellow fingers.

CAIRO — An Egyptian kung fu gold medalist has been suspended by the sport's national federation because he displayed an Islamist symbol showing support for ousted President Mohammed Morsi during a tournament in Russia, officials said Monday.

The online service of the state newspaper Al-Ahram posted a photo of Mohammed Youssef wearing a T-shirt emblazoned with a picture of an open palm with four yellow fingers - the symbol representing a pro-Morsi protest camp violently cleared by security forces in August. In the photo, Youssef held his gold medal with his right hand while punching the air with a clenched left fist during the medal ceremony.

It quoted the federation president as saying Youssef also would be banned from a tournament next month in Malaysia.

Youssef flew to Cairo early on Monday from Moscow after being sent home early by the federation, security officials said, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to release the information. The player's brother Hamam confirmed in a telephone interview with Al-Jazeera Mubasher Misr that his brother was sent home early from the tournament because he displayed the symbol.

The suspension underlines the deepening divisions in Egypt, nearly four months after Morsi - the country's first freely elected president - was ousted in a popularly backed military coup. His ouster followed protests by millions of Egyptians calling on him to step down and accusing him and his Muslim Brotherhood of acting undemocratically and trying to monopolize power in the latest crisis to roil the Arab world's most populous nation since the 2011 ouster of autocratic ruler Hosni Mubarak.

More than 600 protesters were killed when Egyptian police moved in with armored bulldozers to clear the massive sit-in demanding the reinstatement of the Islamist leader near Cairo's Rabaah el-Adawiya mosque. Tensions have spiked as the military-backed interim administration continued to crack down on the Brotherhood, arresting more than 2,000 senior and mid-level officials.

Islamic militants also have stepped up their campaign of violence, mainly targeting Egyptian police and soldiers since the coup, especially in the volatile northern part of the Sinai Peninsula, which borders Israel and the Gaza Strip.

The militants' campaign mostly has been confined to the troubled peninsula that is separated from the mainland by the Suez Canal, but attacks outside Sinai have grown more frequent in recent weeks.

On Monday, gunmen killed three policemen at a security checkpoint in Mansoura, a city north of Cairo, according to the Interior Ministry. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the shootings, but such attacks are typical for militants opposed to Egypt's military-backed government.

Despite the arrests of much of the Brotherhood's leadership, Morsi supporters have pressed forward with protests to try to maintain pressure on authorities to release the toppled leader, who has been held largely incommunicado since his detention on July 3. He is due to go on trial on Nov. 4 for allegedly inciting supporters to kill protesters outside his presidential palace in Cairo last December.

Police used tear gas Monday to disperse several hundred pro-Morsi university students who were rallying near Rabaah el-Adawiya, in eastern Cairo. As the protest got underway, army troops and police backed by armored vehicles blocked off the road leading to the site, creating a tense standoff that lasted hours. By late afternoon, the students retreated to their campus, while pelting security forces with rocks.

[lkfmdc]

But you guys don't care about the impact CMA might have on world politics.



with all due respect dear glorious leader, it is more the impact world politics has upon kung fu than the other way around....

[GeneChing]

...that's your projected distinction, like usual. :p

[lkfmdc]

Politics generally mess things up, they are not the natural order of things

I spent a LOT of time with the Iranian sanshou team that defected to the US, two of them actually trained with me several years, and their friends came and went...

Whatever we had been "taught" about Iran as kids/youth was all wrong, and the Iranians didn't know much about us either, but ultimately everyone got along brilliantly... US wrestlers who have gone to Iran have said exactly that as well

[lkfmdc]

I should also add that while I may annoy trolls, I have never buggered one :D

[GeneChing]

Here's some food for thought from our upcoming Horoscopes (http://ezine.kungfumagazine.com/info/horoscope/index.php) (JAN+FEB 2014):

“You may not be thinking about politics, but politics is thinking about you.” Snake Kerry Washington

[lkfmdc]

Here's some food for thought from our upcoming Horoscopes (http://ezine.kungfumagazine.com/info/horoscope/index.php) (JAN+FEB 2014):

well



You might derive financial profit from an interpersonal relationship. It is very important to actively participate in communication more.



and that's why I am here ;)

[JamesC]

Is this worth a watch? I see it's coming on tv tomorrow

[JamesC]

Nvm just saw the promo video. I will be checking it out. Particularly interested in the sambo.

[GeneChing]

Not much in the general news. I suppose I could search the site. I've heard a little off facebook, but most of the athletes have been on the move to Kuala Lumpur (http://ezine.kungfumagazine.com/forum/showthread.php?t=66860), so they haven't been posting much. Sounds like quite a trek.


Thursday Oct 31, 201303:53 PM GMT
Iran wushu fighter wins gold in World Combat Games (http://www.presstv.ir/detail/2013/10/26/331310/iran-wushu-fighter-snatches-gold-medal/)
http://previous.presstv.ir/photo/20131025/331310_Iran-wushu-Hosseinzadeh.jpg
Iranian wushu practitioner Mojtaba Hosseinzadeh
Sat Oct 26, 2013 12:13AM
Iranian wushu practitioner Mojtaba Hosseinzadeh has clinched a gold medal at the second SportAccord World Combat Games in the Russian city of Saint Petersburg.


The 28-year-old athlete demonstrated a brilliant performance on Friday and overcame his Russian opponent Gadzhi Nuritdinov in the men’s minus 75-kg Sanda (sparring) discipline.

The 31-year-old Venezuelan sportsman Jesus Rafael Licet snatched the bronze medal on the same day.

On Saturday’s finals, 23-year-old Iranian wushu artist Ja’far Shirzadeh Topraghlou will face Dylan Sakho from France in the men’s minus 65-kg Sanda section, Hamid Reza Ladvar will fight against 20-year-old Egyptian fighter Aly Mohamed Ahmed Aly Ibrahim in the men’s minus 85-kg Sanda class, and 26-year-old Arman Baziari will take on Mohamed Youssef from Russia in the men’s minus 90-kg Sanda category.

Sanda (sometimes called Sanshou or Lei tai) has all the combat aspects of wushu, but includes many more grappling techniques.

The second SportAccord World Combat Games opened in Saint Petersburg on October 18, and will wrap up on October 26.

Fifteen Olympic and non-Olympic games are currently on the program: aikido, boxing, fencing, judo, ju-jitsu, karate, kendo, kickboxing, Muay Thai, sambo, savate, sumo, taekwondo, wrestling, and wushu.

Thirty-two athletes are representing Iran in the competitions. A total of 1,500 athletes from 120 countries are in action across the 15 events.

Iranian sportsmen and sportswomen are competing in karate, kickboxing, Muay Thai, sambo, savate, taekwondo, wrestling and wushu.

The World Combat Games, first held in Beijing in 2010, were initiated by SportAccord, the umbrella organization for both Olympic and non-Olympic international sports federations.

MP/MAM/MHB

[GeneChing]

And it was Wushu, not Kung Fu, but what does the world press know? :rolleyes:

Accusations of non-patriotism upset me: Egyptian Kung-Fu player (http://www.dailynewsegypt.com/2013/11/12/accusations-of-non-patriotism-upset-me-egyptian-kung-fu-player/)
Fady Ashraf / November 12, 2013 / 0 Comments

I have a video of the full ceremony, which I will publish at the right time to exonerate myself: Mohamed Youssef

http://i2.wp.com/www.dailynewsegypt.com/beta/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/IMG_3985.jpg?resize=300%2C200
Mohamed Youssef, the Kung-Fu player
(Photo By Fady Ashraf)
Mohamed Youssef, the Kung-Fu player who raised the Rabaa sign after winning the Gold Medal in the Sports Accord Combat Games competition in Russia on 27 October, has caused much controversy lately in Egypt. The Kung-Fu federation’s decision to suspend him for one year has been met with both anger and exhilaration. Daily News Egypt interviewed the award-winning athlete to shed light on the man behind the storm.

Did the Kung-Fu Federation ban you?

I have known about the decision. The federation met on Saturday night and decided to suspend me for a year. However, I was not officially informed of the decision yet. I will not comment on the decision until I am officially informed of it.

When did you begin playing Kung-Fu and how many trophies did you claim?

I started training in 1999 with Captain Emad Eissa, who is still my coach, in Al-Moa’sasa Al-Askareya club and the National Egyptian team. I competed in the Alexandria and national championships, which I won 14 years in a row, from 1999 to 2013. I won the Pan-Arab championship twice, as well as the African championship. I also participated in the Kung-Fu World Cup [for the first time] in 2007 but unfortunately, I lost. In the 2009 Championship, I claimed the sixth ranking. Then I claimed first place in an International Championship in Poland in 2011.

In the 2011 World Cup, [held] in Turkey, I came in fifth place, and first place in the Sports Accord World Cup of Combat Games in Russia [where I raised the Rabaa sign].

What has happened since winning the final game in Russia to the moment?

Let’s divide [what happened] into phases; the first phase was in Russia. After the final game, we had 30 minutes until the ceremony began; I changed from my competition clothes into regular ones [a training suit and the Rabaa T-shirt underneath].

The ceremony then began. I received my medal, the Egyptian flag was raised and the Egyptian national anthem was played. After that, we started taking photos with the [Kung-Fu] International Federation board members. I opened up my training jacket and showed the T-shirt that I wanted to be photographed wearing [the Rabaa T-shirt]. Chairman of the Egyptian Federation Captain Sherif Mostafa was present.

Was there an immediate reaction after you showed the T-shirt?

There was no immediate reaction. When we went back to the hotel, around 2am, I posted the photos on Facebook. At 4am, Mostafa called me and said: “Remove the photos from your account, it will get you into trouble.”

Our bus to the airport was scheduled at 10am; until then, there was no reaction in Egypt.

So you were not deported?

I don’t wish to comment on some procedures [taken with me], such as being deported or whether my medal was confiscated, I’m still waiting for the federation’s decision.

When I was back in Egypt, I was interrogated by different entities.

Entities other than the Kung-Fu Federation?

Yes. If I send a report to the International Olympic Committee, they will ban the federation.

Do these entities include the army?

[They are] different entities.

Are these entities not concerned with sports?

They are sports-concerned entities; I am still waiting for the federation’s decisions. The Ministry of Sports supposedly cannot issue a decision against me, they can only issue a decision against the federation. They have nothing to do with me.

What exactly happened since your return to Cairo?

I was interrogated by several entities. Add to that the constant attack from media outlets, the thing that greatly affects me negatively. Some media personnel and newspapers accused me of being non-patriotic; this upsets me.

Did anyone from the Anti-Coup Alliance or the Muslim Brotherhood contact you after the incident?

Nobody contacted me, except my friends and my neighbours. There was a ceremony in celebration of the new Hijri year in my hometown [Alexandria]. They [The organisers of the ceremony] invited me to the ceremony. I had no prior knowledge that they would honour me during the ceremony; [once I found out] I left the ceremony because I did not want to be honoured from a non-sport-concerned entity.

So you mean that nobody has exploited your action politically?

If somebody is exploiting it, they’re exploiting it without my consent.

Do your teammates support you?

All my teammates support me.

You play for a military club, Al-Moa’sasa Al-Askareya. What was the effect that had on the procedures taken against you?

The people in Al-Moa’sasa Al-Askareya Club are very decent and respectful. If I was playing in a different club, the procedures taken against me would have been similar.

Minister of Sports Taher Abu Zeid recently said that the Kung-Fu Federation might be dissolved due to its “Brotherhood-affiliations”. Are these affiliations true?

I don’t know how credible these accusations are, but I can’t see this happening, as they have to prove it legally.

What kind of decisions against you would you see as unjust?

Any decision that includes punishing me is unjust, even if it is a one-day-suspension. (This question was asked before the suspension decision was issued).

The [Rabaa] sign I raised is not political, religious or partisan. It is an emotional feeling towards my friends who died in the [Rabaa] sit-in dispersal. Many Egyptians sympathise with Rabaa Al-Adaweya [casualties], as all Egyptians’ blood was spilled.

It is a humanitarian action [that I've taken]. I wished that my deceased friends would share my happiness. It is a message that I did not forget my friends; it does not have a political, partisan or a religious implication. I have raised the Rabaa sign after raising the Egyptian flag and after the national anthem. I did not insult the Egyptian flag or the Egyptian anthem. I have a video of the full ceremony that I did not publish yet. I will publish it in the right time and it will exonerate me.

Were you deported from Russia?

I do not wish to comment.

Why did you not travel with your teammates to participate in the World Cup in Malaysia?

It’s the federation’s decision. The Technical Committee of the Federation has the right to choose which players represent Egypt in the World Cup.

[GeneChing]

World Combat Games 2023: Preview, full schedule, and how to watch live action on Olympic Channel (https://olympics.com/en/news/world-combat-games-2023-preview-full-schedule-watch)

Riyadh in Saudi Arabia hosts this year’s multi-sport event, featuring combat disciplines and martial arts from 20-30 October. Find out how to watch live on Olympic Channel.
5 min
By Sebastian Mikkelsen
13 October 2023 05:59 GMT-7
https://img.olympics.com/images/image/private/t_s_w1340/t_s_16_9_g_auto/f_auto/primary/v40nmhmzkzvaxzv5lpwc
(2021 Getty Images)


The 2023 World Combat Games sees 16 combat sports come together, including Paris 2024 Olympic sports judo, taekwondo, wrestling, fencing, and boxing.

1700 top athletes from over 80 countries are participating in the event, that you can watch live on Olympic Channel via Olympics.com and the official Olympics app.

The third edition of Games, taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, begins with the first competitions on 20 October and runs until 30 October.

Find all the sports, the schedule and how to watch the live action below.

What sports are at the 2023 World Combat Games?

Athletes will be competing in 16 different combat sports at 2023 World Combat Games:

Aikido
Armwrestling
Boxing
Fencing
Judo
Ju-jitsu
Karate
Kendo
Kickboxing
Muaythai
Sambo (Russian Wrestling)
Savate (French Boxing)
Sumo
Taekwondo
Wrestling (Traditional Wrestling:GR,PK,GP,AL,KK)
Wushu
Six parasports have also been added for the 2023 edition:
Aikido
Muaythai
Armwrestling
Ju-Jitsu
Sambo
Savate

Athletes to watch at the 2023 World Combat Games

The 2023 World Combat Games is full of big names in some of the sports and future stars in others.

In karate, gold medallist at the African Championships, Abdel Ali Jina of Morocco and Asian champion Mohammad Aljafari of Jordan are among the participating athletes.

Four-time world champion Oleh Pryimachov of Ukraine and five-time world champion Bediha Tacyildiz of Türkiye lead the field in the Muaythai competitions.

Also kickboxing will showcase some of the best in the world with British four-time world champion Christopherr Aston, as well as Italian three-time world champion Elena Pantaleo.

Indonesia’s triple gold medallist from the latest World Wushu Champioships, Edgar Xavier Marvelo, and five-time Wushu world champion Shahrbano Mansouriyan Semiromi of Iran will be hoping to fight for gold in Riyadh.

In jiu-jitsu, five-time JJIF world champion Khaled Al Shehhi of the United Arab Emirates is one of the stars to look out for.

2023 World Combat Games: Schedule

All times below are AST local time (GMT+3) and subject to change.

Thursday 19 October
20:00-21:30 - Opening Ceremony

Friday 20 October
14:00-15:00 - Sambo Semi-finals
15:00-16:00 - Karate Semi-finals
16:00-18:30 - Sambo Finals
18:30-20:15 - Karate Finals
20:15-22:30 - Boxing Semi-finals

Saturday 21 October
12:30-13:45 - Sambo Semi-finals
13:45-15:00 - Sambo Bronze
15:00-16:00 - Karate Semi-finals
16:00-17:30 - Boxing Semi-finals
16:00-17:40 - Sambo Finals
17:30-18:30 - Karate Bronze
17:40-19:00 - Sumo Qualification
18:30-20:15 - Karate Finals
19:00-20:45 - Sumo Semi-finals + Finals
20:15-22:15 - Boxing Finals

Sunday 22 October
16:00-18:40 -Wushu Finals
18:40-19:40 -Wushu Finals
19:40-20:30 - Sumo Semi-finals + Final

Monday 23 October
15:00-16:00 - Judo Semi-finals + Repechage
16:00-18:00 - Wrestling Bronze + Finals
18:00-18:30 - Judo Bronze
18:30-19:00 - Wrestling Bronze + Finals
19:00-20:00 - Judo Final
20:00-21:00 - Wrestling Bronze + Finals

Tuesday 24 October
14:00-15:00 - Wrestling Semi-finals
14:00-17:00 - Jiu Jitsu Qualification
15:00-16:00 - Aikido
16:00-21:00 - Wrestling Bronze + Finals
18:30-19:30 - Jiu Jitsu Bronze
19:30-20:00 - Aikido
20:00-22:00 - Jiu Jitsu Finals

Wednesday 25 October
14:00-17:30 - Jiu Jitsu Qualification
14:30-15:15 - Fencing Qualification
15:15-16:00 - Wrestling Semi-finals
16:00-21:00 - Wrestling Finals
17:30-18:30 - Aikido
18:30-19:30 - Jiu Jitsu Bronze
19:30-20:00 - Aikido
20:00-21:45 - Jiu Jitsu Finals
21:00-23:00 - Fencing Semi-finals + Finals

Thursday 26 October
14:00-15:30 - Jiu Jitsu Qualification
15:00-16:00 - Wrestling Semi-finals
15:30-19:30 - Kickboxing Semi-finals
16:00-21:00 - Wrestling Finals
19:30-21:00 - Jiu Jitsu Bronze
21:00-22:45 - Jiu Jitsu Finals
21:00-23:00 - Fencing Finals

Friday 27 October
15:00-19:30 Kickboxing Finals
16:30-17:30 Armwrestling Semi-finals
17:30-20:30 Armwrestling Finals
19:30-23:30 Fencing Finals

Saturday 28 October
14:00-16:00 Savate Semi-finals + Finals
16:30-17:30 Armwrestling Semi-finals
17:30-20:30 Armwrestling Finals
20:30-22:00 Savate Finals

Sunday 29 October
13:00-15:45 Muaythai Semi-finals
14:30-16:30 Savate Semi-finals
15:45-17:00 Taekwondo Semi-finals
16:30-17:00 Savate Bronze + Finals
17:00-18:00 Savate Semi-finals
17:00-19:45 Muaythai Semi-finals
18:00-18:45 Kendo
18:45-20:00 Savate Finals
19:45-21:00 Taekwondo Semi-finals

Monday 30 October
13:00-19:00 Muaythai Finals
14:00-15:00 Kendo
15:00-16:00 Taekwondo Finals
16:00-17:00 Taekwondo Semi-finals
17:00-18:00 Kendo
18:00-19:30 Taekwondo Finals
19:00-20:30 Savate Finals
19:30-23:00 Savate Finals
21:30-22:30 Closing Ceremony (TBD)

How to watch the 2023 World Combat Games

You can livestream the 2023 World Combat Games on Olympic Channel via Olympics.com and the official Olympics app for mobile devices (territorial restrictions may apply). Anyone following this?

[SteveLau]

I do not know there is such international combat games before. Its amazing that the games include most common school of art in the world. Let's hope that some all round combat games will be included if not replaced some current games in the future. For example, it would good IMHO that MMA will be included later. If the combat form of Wushu is Sanda, then it is good to know that it is included in the Games.




Regards,

KC
Hong Kong