Hello, Got your message after I got home last night. Are you all comming over tonight? It's just me. The boy and Keri are in Arkansas. Kevin >>> "Brannon L. Bain" 12/29/98 09:53am >>> Greetings all. This message is regarding a mundane event that may be of interest to some of the fighters and others on this list. On May 22, 1999 Martial Arts America will be holding a national open Martial Arts tournament. As one of the organizers of this tournament I have included a Freestyle Kendo event. Contestants will be armored in traditional Kendo attire, including Kendo style armor, and will combat to 5 points with Shinai (Bamboo Sword). Targets are as follows: Shomen - Center of Head: 2 points Yokomen - Left or Right Side of Head: 1 point Tsuki - Thrust to throat protector: 2 points Kote - Wrist : 1 point Do - Left or Right side of Torso protector: 1 point There will most likely be two divisions: Open and Masters The winner of this event will be awarded a National Championship trophy (6'?). It is a very rare occasion that non International Kendo Federation members are given the opportunity to compete in this format, particularly on a national level. If you are interested in participating in this event, get with me as soon as possible to begin making arrangements for armor, weapons, etc. With Honor, Brannon L. Bain Soke of Tasu Maru Ryu Bujutsu SKA: Takeda Iyesu Hanshi Shogun of the Clan of the Ivory Dragon Hanshi of Kazeaukami Ryu Kenjutsu "As Paper On Wind Swirling With Unseen Purpose The Blade Whispers Death"