Press Releases

American Martial Arts Institute Attends Hall of Fame

The Tropicana Resort in Atlantic City hosted this year’s Mega Martial Arts Weekend on January 17th, 18th, and 19th, and the American Martial Arts Institute was represented by twenty-two individuals, instructors and black belt students. The three-day martial arts experience began Friday afternoon with seminars held by prominent martial artists, including Master Mark Shuey Sr. who recently taught a cane seminar for the American Martial Arts Institute in September of 2002. In the evening, 21st Century Warriors presented the Mixed Martial Arts & Kick Boxing Extravaganza, which featured full contact bouts in a caged arena.

Saturday morning and afternoon featured Action Martial Arts Magazine’s Trade Show and Expo. Participants were able to meet celebrities such as Don “The Dragon” Wilson, Cynthia Rothrock, and Eric Lee, visit dozens of exhibits, and attend seminars presented by some of the world’s top martial artists. Throughout the day, demonstrations took place on the main stage. Some of the seminar topics included: pressure points, ju-jutsu, kempo, arnis, stunt fighting, the cane, and CDT. The number and variety of seminars made it impossible to see everything that was taking place. It was truly an exciting afternoon, full of opportunities to experience a wide range of styles and philosophies.

The focus of the weekend took place Saturday evening when Action Magazine’s International Hall of Fame 2003 banquet took place. Described as “the academy awards of Martial Arts,” the formal banquet brought together over 1,300 martial artists to recognize the achievements of their peers. A current of energy filled the hall.

A somber moment came when the late Master Jill Crandall was awarded the female Humanitarian Martial Artist of the year. Grand Master Crandall accepted the award for her and said a few words in her memory. It was the only time that evening when the room was silent; Grand Masters and Masters, instructors and students listened as Grand Master Crandall described the strength Master Crandall demonstrated throughout her life. It was a moment of self-reflection, of awareness, and of deep respect, as martial artists from around the world remembered her love of life and inspirational martial arts career. When Grand Master Crandall finished, the room rose for a standing ovation in respect of an incredible martial artist, Master Jill Crandall. It was the only time that evening such a display was shown. Though a sad moment for many of the instructors and students present, it was also a proud moment.

The banquet ended late in the night and was followed by group pictures and dancing.

Sunday was the final day in the Mega Martial Arts Weekend, and it ended with the “War at the Shore,” a national Martial Arts tournament. Two individuals from the American Martial Arts Institute participated, Instructor Travis Donley from Albany, and Junior Rank Class Assistant, “red top,” Nicole Stanulevich from Yorkville.

Nicole competed in three divisions: empty hand kata, where she placed fifth performing Chip-su, sparring, where she placed third, and weapons kata, where she placed first executing the traditional kata Omou with the naginata.

Mr. Donley competed in two divisions. In empty hand kata Mr. Donley executed Eye of the Eagle, placing sixth. In weapons kata he placed fifth, performing the kata Dragon Wings with the escrima.
Congratulations to both Nicole and Mr. Donley for performing so well against some of the nation’s top, full-time competitors.

The Mega Martial Arts Weekend was many things: a chance to share knowledge, recognize outstanding martial artists from around the world, and meet new people. The black belt students and instructors from the American Martial Arts Institute who attended the event each left with different memories and experiences but all shared pride in their school and style.