Midwest Mayhem III takes center stage at Girard Fall Festival: a weekend of martial arts excellence you can’t miss

OPINION COLUMN

BY JESSICA JONES

FOR HOMETOWN GIRARD

This October, the heart of Girard will be buzzing with the sound of fists meeting focus pads, the swish of uniforms in motion, and the unmistakable energy of martial artists honing their craft. Whether you’re a seasoned martial artist or someone who has always been curious about self-defense, Midwest Mayhem III at the Girard Fall Festival is an event that promises to deliver top-tier instruction, practical self-defense skills, and the opportunity to meet some of the most accomplished martial artists in the country.

Mark your calendars:

• Dates: Friday, October 11, and Saturday, October 12, 2024
• Friday, October 11: 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. (Sign-up starts at 5:30 p.m.)
  • Cost: $30 for the session
• Saturday, October 12: 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. (Sign-up starts at 9:00 a.m.)
  • Cost: $60 for the session

This two-day martial arts extravaganza will take place at Walden Kenpo Karate Studio, a hidden gem nestled in Girard, where world-class instructors will converge to share their knowledge, experience, and passion for Kenpo and martial arts as a whole.

Why Kenpo? Why now?

In today’s world, learning self-defense isn’t just an option—it’s a necessity. With rising concerns about personal safety, more people are seeking ways to defend themselves and their loved ones, making events like this one crucial for anyone looking to increase their self-awareness and skill set. Kenpo Karate, a dynamic martial art blending traditional techniques with modern self-defense, is the perfect discipline for this.

According to David Ghigliotty, one of this year’s event’s instructors and a lifelong martial artist with over 42 years of experience, Kenpo is a system designed for everyone. “Kenpo is a well-rounded and all-encompassing martial art. It’s not just about kicking or striking; Kenpo incorporates joint locks, throws, and self-defense techniques that can be customized to fit anyone’s strengths—regardless of physical limitations,” Ghigliotty explains.

A unique opportunity to learn from the best

Ghigliotty is not the only martial arts expert gracing this event. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from an elite group of martial artists with extensive experience across various disciplines. Here’s a sneak peek of some of the top instructors who will be leading sessions:

• Carl Schalyo, 9th Dan IKCA
• Steve Zalazowski, 9th Dan IKCA
• C. Wiley, 9th Dan IKCA
• Nathan Murphree, 7th Dan IKCA
• Ron White, 5th Dan IKCA
• Mike Walden, 2nd Dan IKCA (Owner of Walden Kenpo Karate)
• Andrew Browne, Arise Brazilian Jiu-jitsu (BJJ)
• G.M. Chuck Sullivan, co-founder of the IKCA and a pioneer of distance learning for martial arts

Each instructor brings a wealth of knowledge and their own unique perspective to the art. Nathan Murphree, a 7th-degree black belt, will be working with kids, showing them that martial arts isn’t just for adults—kids, too, can develop strong self-defense skills early on.

S.G.M. Chuck Sullivan, a living legend in martial arts, will also be in attendance. As a pioneer of the IKCA and long-distance martial arts instruction, his presence alone is a rare opportunity for participants to learn from someone whose influence in martial arts is felt around the world.

What to expect during the sessions

This event is open to participants of all ages and experience levels. Whether you’re a beginner who has never thrown a punch or an experienced martial artist, you will walk away with something new. Ghigliotty emphasizes that Kenpo is a system that can be customized to fit any individual’s needs. “You don’t have to be in peak physical condition to participate. Our style of Kenpo allows anyone to learn, even if they’re in a wheelchair or have physical limitations. This is a martial art designed for everyone.”

In addition to learning Kenpo techniques, the event will cover various aspects of martial arts, including striking, joint locks, throws, and the mental discipline needed to recognize and avoid danger. Participants will also gain valuable knowledge about “stranger danger” scenarios—how to spot suspicious situations and respond quickly to threats. “With the world constantly changing and violence on the rise, it’s crucial to know how to defend yourself and your loved ones,” says Ghigliotty. “Even here in Girard, KS, there’s been an increase in crime. You need to be prepared.”

A standout event for martial arts enthusiasts

While the event is designed to introduce beginners to the art of Kenpo, experienced martial artists will also benefit from the no-nonsense, self-defense-driven style of instruction. Ghigliotty points out that IKCA Kenpo cuts out much of the unnecessary “fluff” often found in other systems, making it a practical choice for those who are short on time but eager to learn effective self-defense. “Whether you’re an eight-year-old or a 100-year-old, this event is for you. Some of my students are in their 80s, and they love the adaptability of the art.”

For those wondering if it’s worth taking the plunge, Ghigliotty encourages everyone to get off the fence and come try it out. “Even if you’ve never taken a karate lesson before, this is a perfect opportunity. We have a grandmaster teaching, and the lineup of instructors is phenomenal. You’ll get top-level training, all while learning something that could one day save your life.”

How to register and join the fun

If you’re ready to be part of this exciting martial arts weekend, it’s easy to join. Simply show up at Walden Kenpo Karate Studio to sign in on the day of the event. On Friday, October 11, sign-ups will begin at 5:30 p.m., with the session running from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. On Saturday, October 12, sign-ins start at 9:00 a.m., and the training session will run from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

The cost is incredibly affordable for the value you’ll receive:

• Friday Session: $30
• Saturday Session: $60

Whether you’re interested in the history of martial arts, learning practical self-defense, or simply want to try something new, this event is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. And remember, you’re not just learning from anyone—you’re learning from the best. So, grab your friends, bring your family, and head to Walden Kenpo Karate for a weekend of martial arts education, empowerment, and fun.

For more information or to reserve your spot

Contact Walden Kenpo Karate Studio directly to pre-register or for more details. Even if you can’t commit ahead of time, feel free to show up on the day of the event and sign in. Don’t miss out on this rare chance to train with top-tier instructors at a fraction of the cost you’d normally expect for such high-quality instruction.