International Jugglers' Association

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The International Jugglers' Association or IJA is the oldest and largest organization of jugglers. It is dedicated to encouraging jugglers. It is open to members worldwide although most of its members live in North America, although membership from other parts of the world continues to grow. Membership benefits include access to an annual juggling convention, subscription to Juggle Magazine and directory information services. The convention offers an opportunity to meet many jugglers and also has various juggling competitions, from playful to professional.

The fun juggling Games include various challenges for lots of jugglers to try.

Joggling (juggling while running) tests your ability to juggle while running, with events in various distances. A Gold medal is awarded to the winner of each race.

The Numbers Championships awards Gold medals to those who demonstrate that they can juggle the most balls, clubs or rings for the most catches. Competition occurs in three categories: Individuals, Duos and Trios. See the current IJA records. [1]

The Stage Championships is the formal competition that offers medals and prize money for juggling performances done on stage in front of a big audience. There are three categories: Individuals (individual competitors), Teams (two or more people per team) and Juniors (individuals 17 years old or younger). First, second and third place winners in the Stage Championships are awarded medals and the following prize amounts (2007):

First place -- Gold medal Individuals and Teams $1000. Juniors $250. Second place -- Silver medal Individuals and Teams $500. Juniors $125. Third place -- Bronze medal Individuals and Teams $250. Juniors $75.

Starting at the 2006 convention, a $100 prize is given to each "numbers" winner, with an extra $100 for anyone who breaks an existing International Jugglers' Association record.

Every year, the convention is held in a different city during mid-to-late July. Aside from the competitions, at the convention, there are shows open to the public in which professional jugglers perform, and workshops are taught by advanced jugglers.

The Official Site and the Juggling Information Service offers back copies of the magazine. The Internet Juggling Database maintains more recent information.