Robson Ranch Warriors Compete in Tai Chi Tournament

April 24, 2025

The Robson Ranch Warriors compete in a friendly Tai Chi tournament where the Warriors—a club based at Robson Ranch Arizona, a 55+ active adult community in Eloy—recently showcased their skills in Maricopa, Arizona. Facing off against the Province Ninjas, the event brought together participants of all levels, from beginners with less than a year of practice to seasoned practitioners with over five years of experience.

The Art and Benefits of Tai Chi

Tai Chi Chuan, often simply called Tai Chi, is more than graceful movement—it’s a martial art with deep roots and proven benefits. Recognized for improving both physical and cognitive health, Tai Chi helps develop balance, coordination, strength, flexibility, and mental clarity. Its non-impact nature makes it ideal for people of all ages and abilities, offering a customizable path to wellness.

Meet the Instructor: Dan Hodes

Leading the way at Robson Ranch’s Elevate Movement Studios is instructor Dan Hodes, who began his Tai Chi journey in 1975. Dan teaches the authentic Old Yang Style Long Form, a 108-step sequence divided into three sections. His approach is thoughtful and engaging, offering students both challenge and enjoyment.

In addition to the foundational form, Dan also leads an advanced weapons class. Here, students practice with kamas, staffs, bamboo sticks, fans, swords, and free-hand techniques. The class is an exciting expansion of Tai Chi principles into traditional martial arts weapons training.

Victories and Highlights from the Competition

The Robson Ranch Warriors brought home several impressive wins. Competing in both group and individual events, the team earned:

1st Place in Sei Yu Chen (group performance)
2nd Place in Bamboo Stick (group performance)

Individual awards included:

John Campion – 1st Place in both Fan and Sword
Sue Waibel – 1st Place in Fan
Becky Sheffler – 1st Place in Sei Yu Chen

Robson Ranch’s own Jillian Moon served as one of three judges, adding an additional layer of community pride to the event.

The tournament concluded with a unified performance of Section 1 of the Long Form, led by Dan Hodes, with both the Warriors and the Province Ninjas joining together in shared celebration of the discipline and community spirit Tai Chi fosters.

Join the Tai Chi Community at Robson Ranch

If you’re interested in giving Tai Chi a try, classes are available at Elevate Movement Studios:

Beginner Class (108 Step Form): Tuesdays & Thursdays at 1 p.m.
Advanced Weapons Class: Tuesdays & Thursdays at 2 p.m.

Both classes offer a supportive and welcoming environment. You can sign up online and begin your own journey with this timeless art and maybe even be one of the Robson Ranch Warriors who compete.

About Robson Ranch Arizona

Located in Eloy, just south of the Phoenix metro area, Robson Ranch Arizona is a 55+ community offering resort-style living, abundant amenities, and a wide range of clubs and activities—including the award-winning Robson Ranch Warriors Tai Chi club. Whether you’re interested in wellness, creativity, sports, or social connections, there’s something for everyone at Robson Ranch Arizona.

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