Major WKF convention could be hosted here

GUERNSEY could play host to hundreds of martial arts enthusiasts next year. There is a strong possibility that the island could be chosen to hold a convention after initial talks with Soke Richard Morris , co-founder of the World Kobudo Federation, took place when he was here last week.

'We have had some very early discussions with Dick Morris with regards to what they would require for a convention,' said Tony Dawson, who was founder of the Guernsey Jiu Jitsu Club - now called Jiu Jitsu International Guernsey - and who is marketing manager at the Tourist Board.

'At this moment in time, we have only just started to talk to him. They have, first of all, got to work out what they need and once they have done that we will see if we can help them.

'It so happens that the man who makes the decision, Dick, is a good friend and I think it is quite likely that Guernsey will be seriously considered.'

Dawson was at the forefront of previous conventions held in Guernsey several years ago, but he said that it was far too soon to know what this one would entail, although he imagined it would be primarily a European event.

Past conventions held in Canada have attracted 2,000 people, emphasising their popularity, but the size of one here would be for approximately 300 people. It would take place in the middle or later part of next year.

A decision on where the convention is to be held will not be made for at least a month, probably longer, but Dawson is optimistic of Guernsey's chances and the benefits it could bring.

'Any convention like this is wonderful experience for those involved from all styles, not just a particular style. People will travel a long way to a convention - they are very educational.

'For any venue that stages a convention of say 200, 300 or 400 people coming together it is an extremely important event.

Sensei Barry Taylor of Jiu Jitsu International Guernsey is excited by the prospect of holding a convention in the island and believes that it would increase the profile of martial arts locally.