Tēnā Koutou Katoa,

I’m very excited to invite you all to the first Kirikiriroa Open! Please check out the Bulletin via the downloads tab find all information and rules of this event. Entries that are completed 3 weeks before the event, August 6th, will go into the draw to win a free Arawaza Deluxe Evo Kumite Gi valued at $200!

The KO aims to provide players with a high-quality event, adopting the strategies and format of larger international competitions. A massive part of our goal is to provide athletes with as much mat time as possible. Therefore, we are introducing the following rules to maximise number of fights;
1) We will run double-elimination draws. In this format, when a player loses, they go into a separate loser’s bracket, where you still have the opportunity to fight back for the final!
2) Development players may also enter the open grade event.
3) Players may enter the age-grade division above their own (except for those entered in development divisions).

These changes mean that players who decide to enter two divisions are guaranteed a minimum of four fights.
Maximising the number of fights for players has a significant effect on the timetable. To allow for this, the KO event will be a Kumite only event (no Kata divisions).

We look forward to seeing you all in Hamilton, and best of luck to all those competing!

Sincerely,
Barney Gill
barneygill@gmail.com