Somehow we skipped 44FESTA vol.11 when we wrote about 44FESTIVAL, so here’s a double feature with volumes 11 and 12!
2015 is obviously extraordinarily exciting for all Japanese players with the World Yo-yo Contest in Tokyo quickly approaching, and the 44FESTA crew is also clearly pumped about it!
44FESTA vol. 11
We start off with 44FESTA vol. 11, held earlier this year on January 17th.
The first event in 2015 came with the announcement of a new crew member, Shintaro Noda, and a nice exhibition booth promoting the upcoming World Yo-yo Contest.
Hype!
Also, FESTA chopsticks!
Kendamas were the weapon of choice for this edition’s mini-contest, with the promise of going back to yo-yos next time.
Nobody’s complaining
In the freestyle contest, Yamato Murata continues to dominate the field at 44FESTA, with yet another win! Here’s someone who’s ready for Worlds!
- Yamato Murata
- Daiki Tanaka
- Hiroki Katsumata
- Akira Kato
- Hajime Miura
You can check all freestyles here.
Speaking of freestyles, check out these gentlemen!
Tradition: check
Style: check
After the event itself, the crew had some loot from the USA tour, and a bingo was held to distribute those among the attendees.
Bingo-man Daiki
The event wrapped-up with pizza and fries for all.
Dinner of champions
44FESTA vol. 12
Held on April 19th, 44FESTA vol. 12 also included a great Worlds booth, part of Project2015 – Road to World Yo-yo Contest.
1999 Worlds in Honolulu printed backwards?!
Orlando’s unforgettable Muscle Man
Starting with vol.12, YoYoNews.com is also a Silver supporter of 44FESTA! We are thrilled to join forces with one our favorite events!
As promised, yo-yos were back for this edition’s mini-contest, with the popular 4A relay race taking place again! Team Jun – including World Champion Tsubasa Onishi and living legend Master Nakamura – was the winner!
Relay power: Over 9000!
With Worlds quickly approaching, the freestyle segment was more serious than usual, with players taking the opportunity to get used to stage time. The winner, however, is no stranger to the stage:
Ready for Worlds!
Tsubasa Onishi scored a rare victory for the veteran contestants! Check the top 5 below:
- Tsubasa Onishi
- Kaito Tanaka
- Daiki Tanaka
- Hiroki Katsumata
- Akira Kato
Freestyle videos and full results can be found here.
Wrapping up with a cake for birthday boy Jun, the 44FESTA crew invites everyone to attend the next edition, on May 31st!
See you next time!