[misc.handicap] Wheelchair and other Karate

CREGIER@UPEI.CA (Sharon Cregier) (09/18/90)

Index Number: 10436

Properly instructed, the martial arts can enhance sensibilities and
sensitivities.  A popular demonstration at karate tournaments is
given by one man confined to a wheelchair and another who is
totally blind.  One instructor tells me that it is a challenge to
try to beat either.  "Lay a finger on either and you are MEAT", I
was told.  The blind man is led into the arena by his dog, his dog
is taken away, and then the man proceeds to break blocks thrown
into the air.

Just thought some of you might want to add to your directions and
possibilities.  It helps to have a very sympathetic instructor.
The instructor I worked with this summer will also be teaching
elderly people how to use their canes and walkers to protect
themselves.

Gary.Greiner@f21.n272.z1.fidonet.org (Gary Greiner) (09/27/90)

Index Number: 10648

SC> Properly instructed, the martial arts can enhance sensibilities and
SC> sensitivities.  A popular demonstration at karate tournaments is
SC> given by one man confined to a wheelchair and another who is
SC> totally blind.  One instructor tells me that it is a challenge to
SC> try to beat either.  "Lay a finger on either and you are MEAT", I
SC> was told.  The blind man is led into the arena by his dog, his dog
SC> is taken away, and then the man proceeds to break blocks thrown
SC> into the air.
 
Sharon, not quite on the same level, but another example. A few years
back at one of the regional high school wrestling tournaments the 132
lbs. weight class was won by a wrestler who had his right arm in a cast
(soft cast, since hard one would not be allowed). Not only that, he was
by far the best wrestler in the tournament. Naturally, he could not use
his right arm, but I guess his biggest disadvantage was (would have
been) ther vulnerability of the arm (if you are familiar w/high school
or college wrestling, you know what I mean).
Cheers,
           TM

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