Learn for free the art of self-defense
By JOSH VOORHEES Staff writer
Even with Santa watching, not everyone is on their best behavior. In order to make sure that the naughty don't harm the nice this holiday season, the Aiken County Recreation Center is teaming with CSRA Defensive Arts to offer a free self-defense clinic.
The class will be held this Saturday at the Recreation Center from 11 a.m. until noon. Admission is free, however interested participants are encouraged to RSVP ahead of time.
"I'll be teaching defensive tactics in addition to the basics of self-defense," said Johnny Hughes, an instructor at CSRA Defensive Arts. "We'll be focusing on defensive awareness, making sure that they know how to stay out of dangerous situations in the first place."
Participants are asked to wear comfortable clothes and athletic shoes. The event is open to men, women and children.
"I'm aiming for age about 12 and up, but it's negotiable. As long as everyone is well behaved, I'm open," said Hughes, a third-degree black belt in Kindai No Karate, a blended style involving joint locks, takedowns and strikes.
For those that cannot attend Saturday's clinic, Hughes will hold another mini-clinic Jan. 18.
The Aiken County Recreation Center is located at 917 Jefferson Davis Highway.
For more information or to RSVP, call 349-4329 and leave a message.
More information about CSRA Defensive Arts is available online at www.csradefensivearts.com.
Contact Josh Voorhees at jvoorhees@aikenstandard.com.