The (Campeonato Sudamericano WTSDA) was again celebrated on December 9th at the Club Independente in Avellaneda, Buenos Aires, Argentina. This year marked the 10th anniversary of this bi annual event and drew competitors from throughout Argentina and Chile. Our special guest included many of the Masters from the recent Latin American Masters Camp (LMAC) and of course our special guest, Grandmaster J.C. Shin.
During opening ceremonies a traditional WTSDA Masters and SAM DAN demonstration preceded a masters promotion ceremony. Hundreds of students and spectators observed as the Grandmaster KNIGHTED the new ranks to; Master Hugo Frattini of Avellaneda, Argentina 5th DAN and Master Victor Jara of Santiago, Chile to 5th DAN. Also promoted were two new 4th DAN, Master Christian Alvarez and Master Rodrigo Frattini both of Buenos, Argentina. Congratulations!
Another moment was reserved for the recognition for the Region 12 Family of the Year. The Ayala family from Lorenzo's Studio of Ramos Mejia, Buenos Aires - Daniel Oscar Ayala (E-DAN), Mauro Danel Ayala (E-DAN), Ramiro Nataniel Ayala (Cho DAN), Marcos Danil Ayala (8th Gup), and of course mother, Monica Beatriz (no rank yet).
The spirited competition included from the always entertaining Tiny Tigers to the high skilled Black Belts categories. At the close of the event Hernan Millara Sam Dan of Buenos Aires was declared 2007 South American Grand Champion and awarded the SA Championship CUP of which he shall hold until this event meets again in 2009.
Special appreciation also is exteded to the Instructor Pablo Scottino and the Villa Gesell students for their exhibition demo and to the event host, the Frattini studios and their very dependable and dedicated team.
