WINSLOW — Hundreds of competitors from across Maine, and even some from New Brunswick, will take part in Saturday’s Battle of Maine martial arts tournament at Sukee Arena.

The Battle of Maine is in its 32nd year. The day starts at 9 a.m. with special demonstrations of fighting forms set to music. Competition begins at 10 a.m., and will feature athletes as young as 4 years old. According to Mark Huard, of Huard’s Ju-Jitsu and Karate School, there are more than 130 divisions of fighters.

Additional Photos

GETTING READY: Brothers Christopher and Ethan Loubier of Winslow practicing for the Battle of Maine recently at Huard’s Martial Arts Dojo in Winslow. Contributed photo by Mark Huard

“We usually get a lot of entries at the door, but right now we’re looking at just over 300 (competitors),” Huard, one of the tournament directors, said.

The Battle of Maine also serves as a fundraiser for the Children’s Miracle Network. Tickets are $10 per person, with $1 from each ticket going to the Children’s Miracle Network.

Last year, the event raised $4,534 for the Children’s Miracle Network, Huard said. In the last 10-plus years, the event has raised more than $40,000 for the charity, all of which is spent in central and eastern Maine.

“A portion of the money they raise for the Children’s Miracle Network comes right back to our community, helping the Birthing Center at Inland Hospital purchase new equipment. We thank the Huard’s for their commitment to health care and their commitment to our community,” John Dalton, President and CEO of Inland Hospital, said in a release.

Fusion fighting, a form of light mixed martial arts, made its debut at the Battle of Maine last year, and will return this year at approximately 4 p.m.

Governor Paul LePage declared Saturday is Martial Arts Day in Maine.

Travis Lazarczyk — 861-9242

tlazarczyk@centralmaine.com

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