That's what makes it interesting, doesn't it? The Japanese have never won on home ground, and now they have awesome players which can give the West a very good run for their money.
The format of the competition is very interesting if you think about it. The preliminary round definitely caters to the style of play you would expect to see from a Japanese player. 5 tricks in 3 minutes allows for them to be very controlled and focused, which is why you see Japanese players put up high prelim numbers compared to the rest of the field. The finals definitely cater to the American style (freestyle) of play. Westerners tend to play fast and chain tricks together at a rapid pace, without the strict discipline you see from Japanese players. This is why I believe it has been won by Americans the past 3 years. Just my opinion! As far as predictions go, I have a horse in the race, so my money is on my son! Bryson is still the man to beat!! However, I think Nobu has a great shot at winning, his style of play is Taylor made for this competetion and he is "battle tested". Again, these are just my observation, opinions, and guesses.....which means I will probably totally wrong.
Seeing his progress, it's astounding to see how far he's gone in the kendama scene. From what i've heard from Seth, Logan's a hard worker, a trait most appreciated in kendama. As good as he is, Logan needs a couple more years and he could go on winning major tournaments!
well, since it's going to be close why not pick someone out?!?!?! for me top ten will be: Bryson Lee Lukas Funk Yukie Yao/Nao??? Nobu Nori Soma KANEMOTO Soma FUJITA Lukas Sandgren(if ever joining) Parker Johnson Dylan Westmoreland either Jarod,Wyatt,Jake Fisch,Joris,Logan, Liad,Missu,Gallaghers,Eli,Stodd.
My prediction...a human who plays kendama will win KWC, bets anyone? Then again, providing proof that some of these players are not aliens might be difficult.
I haven't thought about it but stodd could win! Logan would be awsome tho, but it's an excuse to get a stodd mod!!
Yeah there was a giveaway of 12 kendamas on roots kendamas IG for someone who gues first three players in order. No one guessed
It was crazy! So killed it, Bryson was damn close, and I've been super impressed by Liad as well. The biggest crowd reaction came from one of the JKA girls though. She crushed it!