This is a new showcase event at the Tiger Claw Elite KungFuMagazine.com Championships for May 4, 2024. More info to come…
Jedi-Academies
The May the Fourth LED Saber Championship
Registration is now open!
Register HERE.
New this year - The May the Fourth LED Saber Championship.
Updated this year - our Songshan Shaolin Division is now an official part of the Shaolin Kung Fu Games under the Shaolin Temple of China.
Returning this year - The WildAid Tiger Claw Championship.
2024 Tiger Claw Elite Championships & KUNG FU TAI CHI DAY May 4-5, San-Jose, CA
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The sport grows…
Lightsaber Dueling Is Officially A Real-World Competitive Sport
BY SEAN MORRISON
PUBLISHED 1 DAY AGO
The perfect sport now exists for those who have always wanted to feel like a Jedi. Here’s everything you need to know about lightsaber dueling.
SUMMARY
Lightsaber dueling is now an official competitive sport recognized by the French Fencing Federation.
The sport follows rules similar to traditional fencing but emphasizes wide slashes and sweeping motions, like the moves employed by Jedi in Star Wars.
Lightsaber dueling is growing globally with competitions and schools around the world, including the United States and Europe.
Those with a love for Star Wars can now be a Jedi - or the closest thing to it - in real life, and they can do it competitively via the official sport of lightsaber dueling. Lightsabers have always played a central role in Star Wars, as they are the main weapons of both the Jedi and the Sith. Many viewers of the franchise have imagined using a unique lightsaber type and testing their skills in battle. Luckily, they can now put their dueling skills to the test and see how effective the lightsaber combat forms are for themselves in an official sport.
In 2019, the French Fencing Federation designated lightsaber fencing as an officially recognized competitive sport, according to BBC. Fighters can trade in metal rapiers for plastic sabers that glow in one of the canon lightsaber colors, a move the FFF made in the hopes of drawing in younger competitors and encouraging them to participate in a physical activity. While lightsabers can draw in younger crowds, it also makes the sport interesting for older viewers, as the glowing blades make matches easier to follow. For those who want to see how well they could fight as Jedi Knights, an understanding of the sport is necessary.
How Lightsaber Dueling Works As A Sport
The first Jedi (or Sith) to reach 15 points wins the duel, or whoever has the most points after 3 minutes of play.
According to the full rules set by the Terra Prime Light Armory, lightsaber dueling is very similar to regular fencing, though there are some key differences that make it a more authentic Star Wars experience. Like traditional fencing, points are awarded for blows that land on the opponents’ head or body, arms or legs, and hands, in increments of five, three, and one, respectively. The first Jedi (or Sith) to reach 15 points wins the duel, or whoever has the most points after 3 minutes of play.
The key difference is that in lightsaber dueling, points can only be scored if the blade starts pointing behind the attacker. That rule prevents the jabs that are key to traditional fencing, and encourages fighters to use wide slashes and sweeping motions instead, just like the best Jedi duelists. While rules may vary based on organization and location, they generally follow these broad guidelines.
Where Can You Compete In Lightsaber Dueling?
Lightsaber duels in the Star Wars trilogies.
Those who wish to participate in the dueling activities can find locations across the world. France was one of the first countries to recognize it as an official variation of fencing, and the first national championship was held in 2023, according to France 24 English. Lightsaber dueling is also spreading throughout the United States, with organizations such as the Lightspeed Saber League serving as a resource for official and unofficial teams while also sponsoring the formation of new groups across the country. There are also schools, like LudoSport International, that teach lightsaber dueling across the world, including Brazil, Italy, the United Kingdom, Sweden, and more.
Lightsaber dueling seems like a fantastic way to celebrate a franchise as beloved as Star Wars. The sport allows participants to get involved in a physical activity and join an in-person community, while at the same time showing off their impressive weaponry and skills. Until technology is able to replicate a real lightsaber like those seen in Star Wars, lightsaber dueling seems like the best option to feel like a Jedi in real life.
Sources: BBC, Terra Prime Light Armory, France 24 English, Lightspeed Saber League, LudoSport International
We are cooperating with TPLA for our The-May-the-Fourth-LED-Saber-Championship
May the Fourth LED Saber Championship
2024 Tiger Claw Elite Championships & KUNG FU TAI CHI DAY May 4-5, San-Jose, CA
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Our latest ezine interview
This Year’s Showcase Championship. READ Darth Nonymous on the Tiger Claw May the Fourth LED Saber Championship by Gene Ching
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Our latest sweepstakes - Enter to WIN!
Enter to win a pair of VIP passes to the Tiger Claw Elite Championship, May 4-5, San Jose, CA
Contest ends 4/25/2024.
2024 Tiger Claw Elite Championships & KUNG FU TAI CHI DAY May 4-5, San-Jose, CA
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Entry Fee reduction for the May the Fourth LED Saber Championship
Entry Fee reduced for the May the Fourth LED Saber Championship
For more, read Darth Nonymous on the Tiger Claw May the Fourth LED Saber Championship.
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Registration closes april 21st!
The Tiger Claw Elite KungFuMagazine.com Championships is pre-registration ONLY.
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New Photo policy for the 2024 Tiger Claw Elite Championships
Please understand this is something new that the venue is imposing upon TCEC.
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TCEC registration is closed except for Showcase events
Registration for 2024 Tiger Claw Elite Championships is closed except for the Showcase Divisions
To register for the May the Fourth LED Saber Championship or the WildAid Tiger Claw Championship, comtact Gigi Oh: gigitcmedia@hotmail.com (408) 209-8150 or Gene Ching: gene@kungfumagazine.com
2024 Tiger Claw Elite Championships & KUNG FU TAI CHI DAY May 4-5, San-Jose, CA
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Custom LED Saber prize
The May the Fourth LED Saber Championship Custom LED Saber Champion prize fresh from the forge of sabersmith Lah Zhima
2024 Tiger Claw Elite Championships & KUNG FU TAI CHI DAY May 4-5, San-Jose, CA
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Nice post from 10,000 Victories
Northern Shaolin Double Sabers vs. LED Sabers
By 10000victories May 1, 2024 Events and Classes
Home » Our Blog » Northern Shaolin Double Sabers vs. LED Sabers
Joseph and Connor can barely contain their excitement as they engage in an impromptu light saber duel after Kung Fu class in San Rafael. Their LED light sabers crackle through the air, fueled by the adrenaline rush of preparing for the upcoming Tiger Claw tournament in San Jose.
This year’s competition features an electrifying new event – an LED saber performance contest. As the weekend showdown draws near, students at 10,000 Victories are buzzing with excitement.
If you are local to San Rafael in Marin County, California join us for authentic Northern Shaolin Kung Fu class; build your physique, confidence, and health!
Check this post for Tiger Claw Championship
They are participating in this event. May the Force be with them…
This weekend!
The schedules are posted:
Saturday Schedule
Sunday Schedule
2024 Tiger Claw Elite Championships & KUNG FU TAI CHI DAY May 4-5, San-Jose, CA
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Thank you to all the participants at Tiger Claw Elite KungFuMagazine.com Championship
It was another great one.
Photos and videos coming soon…
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First photo drop
See our new album - 2024 Tiger Claw Elite KFM Championships Photos by Kevin Ho
2024 Tiger Claw Elite Championships & KUNG FU TAI CHI DAY May 4-5, San-Jose, CA
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The Grand Champion results are posted
See 2024 Tiger Claw Elite Champions
2024 Tiger Claw Elite Championships & KUNG FU TAI CHI DAY May 4-5, San-Jose, CA
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Tiger Claw Elite Championship: Introduction
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Report from TPLA
Report: Tiger Claw Elite Championships
May 12, 2024
D. Nonymous
I am back from San Jose California, where I attended, the 2024 Tiger Claw elite Championship. And what a Weekend it was! I was there to officiate and run the first May The Fourth LED Saber Tournament that Tiger Claw had added to this years event. But outside of the official business I was there for, the experience really cannot be topped.
It began almost the moment I stepped out of the Airport in San Jose. Being picked up by one of the Dragon Crew, those of us involved with the set up, running, and tear down of the event. We arrived at the venue where I hooked up with Gene Ching and the rest of the crew. After a little set up we broke to get ready for the Welcome Banquet for the staff and VIPs. In attendance we luminaries like Liang Shou-Yu, Grace Wu-Monnat, Bryant Fong, Chen Bing and of course the Tiger Claw and Kung fu Magazine owners and leaders Gigi and Johnny Oh. The food and fellowship was great. Although Jet Lag did have its way with me.
Bright and shiny the Saturday morning I reported to judge Traditional Kung Fu. I ended up in a ring which ended up being the first few competition for the eventual grand champion of the tournament. My first foray judging went well, the head judge was patient and helpful and my fellow judges upstanding and forthright. And all round wonderful experience.
The afternoon was spent sharing lightsabers with the crowd and getting ready for the first competition in LED saber forms. It really is amazing how these things bring people together. Kids and adults alike love the sabers. Even the venerable Masters in attendance were struck by how useful and elegant they really are. I was prepared to field lots of skeptical questions, which I have come to expect. But I got zero myself.
The May the Fourth LED Saber Tournament
The reason I was there in the first place was to run and officiate the first LED Saber Forms competition being held at the Tiger Claw Elite. This was the first Led saber competition using solo forms or “Dulon”. There were six competitors for the event and it was held on the main stage. I was head judge and my fellow judges were none other than Liang Shou-Yu, Grace Wu-Mommant, Bryant Fong, and Jeff Lin. High level masters and well known teachers, and founders in Chinese martial arts here in the US. A panel of True Masters! I have a large sense of admiration for all the competitors for performing in front of such a distinguished panel. I was intimidated enough in my position.
The rules were simple. No time limit, no stylistic constraints. Just keep your blade lit for the entire performance and do not touch the blade when lit at any time. Up for grabs in this event was an issue of Kung Fu Magazine with a story about Ray Park, a Darth Maul Art Box, and a specially engraved saber by yours truly.
The actual competition went well. All the competitors brought their own unique flavor to the stage and my hats off to all of them. The judges as well, Such luminaries of Kung Fu and Wushu, ad yet they approached this lightsaber event with all the seriousness as any other event. It was great to see them truly understand the point of the weapon and I couldn’t be more grateful to them for their judging and expertise.
Shaolin and Taiji Sunday
Sunday was devoted to the Shaolin Games. One of the first international tournaments endorsed by the Temple in China. There were several monks on hand and entire schools devoted to the Shaolin curriculum. Together with Masters demos and the events, there was a lot of Kung Fu to be had. It was also World Taiji Qigong day and I participated in a large group performance of the 24 set.
Closing the event were the award presentations. I received one for bringing the LED saber to the tournament. Although it is just for showing up, its a nice medal and I am quite fond of the memories attached to it.
Coming home
The weekend was something out of a fever dream. It was as if I had broken into mount Olympus and was being allow to party with the gods. Hyperbole aside, it was a kind of home coming for me. To be in the presence of so much Chinese Martial Art and artists, to be seeped in these traditions again, felt very good. Add to that the absolutely wonderful people that were my hosts. Thanks and congratulations on such a successful event. I hope this marks the beginning of a strong relationship between TPLA, USA Lightfencing and Tiger Claw.
And a special shout to the whole Dragon Crew. Some I got to know better than others but every one of you treated me like family. You made me feel totally at home and welcome. Thanks to Greg, Emilio, Hoel, Toch, and Stephen, for saving my bacon more than one occasion during the weekend. I cant wait to join you all again in the near future. To thanks to Gene Ching, the Man the legend. Were it not for yo initing me, none of this would be possible. Thank you, my friend.
This May the Fourth was a great one. And I am given rented energy as Led Saber sport is being accepted by influential people in my parent art. So much of the TPLA curriculum is taken directly from Chinese sources, modern and historic. This has very much been a home coming for me, Terra Prime, and the art of sabering. Soon we wile releasing the rules for Dulon competition, much of which is inspired by competitive Chinese martial art.
To all my new found friends! Thank you for a great Fourth and we will see you all soon!
Check out the Kungfumagazine.com, socials for more photos and coverage.
There are a lot more photos, but I only copy & pasted the lead shot.
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