Published: August 30, 2008 12:32 pm            

Fishinghawks hold open house

Kicking, grappling and disarming were just some of the things going on Saturday at Fishinghawk’s World Championship Karate in Locust Grove. Owner David Fishinghawk hosted the 2008 open house with seminars from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and wrapped up the event with a Black Belt Fire Break at 9:30 p.m.

Master Fishinghawk said there were around 75 in attendance throughout the day with about 55 people staying for the night’s anticipated fire break and walk.

The day started with an MMA / grappling seminar presented by Nathan Orand of Pat Mietich Fighting System, Tulsa. Later the Native American National Champion Feather Fancy Feather Dancers performed for the crowd. At

1:30 p.m., Stanley Mason of Warriors Path Martial Arts, Broken Arrow, put on a seminar on how to disarm people with guns and knives.

Gary Thompson of Karate World of West Siloam Springs, Ark., and Derek Kuk Sol Won of Tahlequah held a seminar on the Russian Martial Art of Systema. The seminars ended with Cane Masters, Kata and Techniques presented by Sensei Jack Groves of Eureka Springs, Ark.

While visitors waited for the grand finale, door prizes were presented and Fishinghawk and his guests prepared the fire for the fire walk and fire break. Once the fire was ready, four Black Belts stepped up for the fire break. Jared Parker of Locust Grove broke eight fiery boards, while David Fishinghawk broke five and Kelly Fishinghawk broke three boards using a hammer fist. Last, Gary Thompson attempted to break four concrete blocks consumed with fire. Thompson was

successful.

"The flames were really high. They are not

normally that high," Fishinghawk said.

Later Fishinghawk and friends completed the fire walk. He said to make the walk you have to be in the right state of mind.

"You have to concentrate," Fishinghawk said. "You have to focus, you’re in such a zone."

He said at a recent fire walk in Siloam Springs, the Siloam Springs Fire Department said the fire was about 1,500 degrees. He estimates the fire was close to that Saturday night. Joining him in the 15-foot walk were Steve Place of Karate World, Kelly Fishinghawk and Derek Abshire. Everyone competed the task and no one was injured.

"It’s a rush. When you do it, it’s a feeling of accomplishment," Fishinghawk said.

Fishinghawk’s World Championship of Karate is located at 112 N. Broadway, Locust Grove. It also offers a 24-hour work out facility, Monday through Friday. For details about the gym or classes call 479-8889.

 

        

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