LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) – Lima was the place to be on Saturday, where people could test their physical and mental discipline on the mat or in the ring.
Around 300 competitors from across the United States, along with teams from Ukraine, Poland and Mongolia, took part in the second American Vital Karate Open at the Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center.
All ages competed in disciplines such as karate, boxing and jujitsu. Jerry Poe organized the event because he wanted Lima to host a tournament like those he traveled the world to compete in.
“I'm born and raised from Lima, and I've traveled the world, competing. I've won international titles and some world titles, and I think Lima deserves to be put on the map and get some recognition,” said Shihan Jerry Poe, organizer and 5th-degree black belt in Kyokushin.
Throughout the day, participants competed for top scores or points in a variety of competitions.
“Well, we have Kata which is an empty hand weapon. It's like you're fighting without somebody there, like shadow boxing and boxing. Then we have the weapons, where they show skills with the weapons. We have a point fighting which is no contact, it's just technique in and out. We have what's called semi knockdown, which is full contact with pads. Then we have full knockdown, which is bare knuckle,” said Poe.
Poe said he has a five-year plan to grow the tournament. This year’s event included 100 more competitors than last year.
