Army ultimate fighting tourney continues tomorrow - Army News | News from Afghanistan & Iraq - Army Times

Army ultimate fighting tourney continues tomorrow

FORT BENNING, Ga. — Some of the Army’s best fighters have gathered here this weekend for the biggest combatives tournament in the service.

The third annual All-Army Combatives Tournament begins Saturday, and more than 190 soldiers representing 35 Army bases and units will compete for top honors.

The fights begin at 9 a.m. Saturday. The finals, by which time the field will be whittled down to 28 fighters, begin at 1 p.m. Sunday.

Soldiers will fight in seven weight classes, from flyweight (125 pounds and below for men and 131 pounds and below for women) to heavyweight (205 pounds or heavier for men and 215 pounds or heavier for women). This year, three women are expected to compete in the tournament.

Some of last year’s top competitors, including last year’s heavyweight champ, Sgt. Brandon Sayles of Fort Benning, will not compete this year because they are deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan. However, this year’s field includes soldiers from places such as Fort Riley, Kan.; Fort Bragg, N.C.; Fort Hood, Texas; Fort Campbell, Ky.; the Guam National Guard; the Illinois National Guard; 7th Special Forces Group; and 55th Combat Camera.

Multimedia

Video: See some of the action from the Ft. Knox tournament

Also, check back at www.armytimes.com for updates from Ft. Benning, Ga.