Kong Hoi Kung Fu Assn. Blog

Latest news!

2009-10-05T07:23:00.000-07:00

The new shirts and weapons for Sil Lum Mountain finally came in. Students love the new design and the weapon quality has improved greatly over previous year's orders. Lion dance at the senior estate went great! Steve did a bang up job with the lion and Derik did a great job running the show! Thanks to all who came out to help out. These type of events help the kwoons out greatly and we do appreciate you being involved as students. For closed door candidates, this is part of the deal and it is suggested that you participate in as many things as you can. Again, thanks to all of you. I know I speak for Sifu Chris as well.

Sifu Anthony

Hong Kong

2009-09-14T09:13:00.001-07:00

Sifu Li is off to Hong Kong. We wish him well and safe travel.

New Class Hours

2009-07-07T10:56:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let everyone know that Kong Hoi Kung Fu - Sil Lum Mountain has new class hours. Please go to our website www.konghoikungfu.com for details.

All Day Tourney 2009 Prep!

2009-04-21T14:09:00.000-07:00

The all day event went great for all the Lai Tong Pai practitioners that participated. I was excited to see everyone there. This was the first time Kong Hoi Kung Fu Association has had an all day workout geared specifically for an upcoming tournament. I think everyone learned a great deal. We went through forms, weapon forms, luk sao and continuous sparring in preparation for the 2009 CACMA National Kung Fu/Tai Chi Tournament being held on May 2, 2009 at the Charlotte Convention Center. I hope everyone had a great time. I know we will have more of these sessions in the future for other upcoming national events. Maybe we can take a few pictures of the event to post next time. Take care everyone!

Sifu Anthony

A Master Weighs In

2009-02-05T14:12:00.000-08:00

My good friend and Tai Chi Master, Alan Lumder, wrote about rooting:

Rooting is fundamental to effective technique. The Chinese say heaven and earth which means that the legs are solid and the upstairs moves lightly. Rooting can be both static (fixed) and moving. It is best for your students’ to start developing their roots with standing exercises. You may want to consider the following:

Have your people start with fix postures. Use holding the ball or a move from your forms. Start with holding the move for 1-3 minutes. Let them feel the energy drain from upstairs and settle into both legs. It is a process of relaxation. Make sure that their posture is good. Knees must not exceed the toes. After a while they can visualize energy orbits. They should work up to 15-30 minutes. By holding postures, they can work out the energy movements. In time the entire body becomes light and balanced.

When they can hold fixed postures, work on their forms. By doing the forms slowly, using empty steps, and proper body mechanics, they can develop moving roots. The need to be focusing on their legs, where they are now, and much less on destination.

Been a while

2009-02-05T03:05:00.001-08:00

Lets talk root. Rooting is the first step of your foundation training. Moving root is where you want to be. How do you develop this? Easy, do your forms and it will come. There is no shortcut. Pondder on this.

Chris

Been a while

2009-02-05T03:05:00.000-08:00

Challenges

2008-12-22T14:50:00.000-08:00

Have you ever thought "The sword is my weapon, I don't do the staff all that great" or something to that effect? This goes against the Shaolin way. We strive to prefect all of our skills despite our limitations. Does this mean we will achieve greatness with the staff? No but it means we never stop trying and never give up.

Living the Kung Fu Life

2008-12-15T16:22:00.000-08:00

I live the kung fu life. I am proud of my accomplishments and I had my new employer comment that he hired me because of my martial arts. Go back and get to the five excellence's of this blog. I strive to get through school, work hard and still practice.

Good to be back,
Chris

The 8 ways

2008-10-07T05:42:00.000-07:00

Look at this symbol *. We know this as the astrix or envision a + with and X through it. This represents the 8 ways. 8 Way stepping or walking th circle, its all footwork. Look into your forms and you will see these patterns exist. The Tai Chi form (108) starts with the first 4 moves in this pattern + and the second 4 in X pattern.

Look close and you will see.

Chris

6 Harmonies

2008-09-03T14:55:00.000-07:00

Wrist-Ankle, Elbow-Knee, Shoulders-Hips, Heart-Mind, Mind-Chi, Chi-Eyes. These are what my Sifu calls the 6 harmonies. When the body is in-sync (the first three) then the techniques are going to be crisp and effective. When the Heart controls the Mind, then the Mind will control the Chi, then the Chi will follow the eyes for focus.

Look for these harmonies in your forms. They exist in every form you do. the slower you do these, the more you will find how it all works.

What Kung Fu really means

2008-08-22T03:54:00.000-07:00

Getting back from Ray Wong's tournament in Washington, I reflected on all of the items about Kung Fu different people had to say.
Many great masters were given a chance to have the mic and spoke on the ways Kung Fu had helped their life. Several spoke of the sacrifices made to Kung Fu. several spoke of past tournaments and competition, but all spoke of friendship.
Kung Fu has brought all of us together. My best friends, people who I consider brothers and sisters, all I found due to Kung Fu. The integrity of a Martial Artist should be of the highest level, and I am glad I associate with them.

Unions and such

2008-08-12T10:14:00.000-07:00

Please congratulate Dan and Mary, they will be joined as Man and Wife this Saturday. I am honored to call them two of the most talented and personable students I have ever had in class. I wish them all the success!

Moving

2008-08-03T17:08:00.000-07:00

We moved the school today. We had to move due to various situations out of our control. We did get everything done and are back up and running. The space is slightly smaller, but we have a School with good fung shui and Sifu did the opening ceremonies.

We are truly blessed and thank you to all that helped. Thank you to all that read our blog.

Chris

Tournaments and Such

2008-07-28T08:58:00.000-07:00

Just got back from the KouShu Tournament and had a blast. My thanks to all that work that tournament every year. Special thanks to the World KouShu Federation, they are always number one.

I am honored to be invited to judge and referee at this tournament every year. To be among the greatest martial artists in the world is such an honor. Not only the CACMA sifus but people like Grandmaster Huang, lineage holder of Tein Shan Pai, Joe "Iron Fist" Dunphy, Grandmaster Steve Martin of the White Crane system, Grandmaster Chan Pui of the Wah Lum School, and many others to numerous to name.

Always be respectful when meeting others, you never know who you will be meeting.

Chris

How Easy!

2008-07-20T13:15:00.000-07:00

I was watching National Geographic's Fight Science and it was on self defence. I have always wondered why many martial arts separate self defence. I always thought that fighting is fighting. If I am fighting, it is going to be in self defence. i don't know any true martial artists that go out looking for a fight. I am not counting sport, which is a different game altogether.

But back to Fight Science. I saw many defences that I know I learned as basic Kung Fu strikes that I learned long ago. What the show did teach me was how easy it is to hurt someone. A simple palm strike to the bladder area was measured to break the pelvic ring, causing the body's foundation to collapse and the person to fall down and not be able to walk or even crawl. This strike is taught in our first form.

Kung Fu is deadly, respect all life and defend yourself. Take care to use only the physical part of Kung Fu when needed.

Chris

Internal Arts

2008-07-11T15:19:00.000-07:00

I have moved more internal in my art. I have tried to adapt my form, only to find it is the way it should have been done all along.

Lets look at a punch. A jab for example. When we punch my shoulders are down, my hips turn slightly and force is delivered. This is over simplified but proves a point. I am connecting the 6 harmonies.

Think about it.

Things I forgot

2008-07-06T03:49:00.000-07:00

I did not even mention our trip to Macau. This island is a former Portuguese col only and is the Las Vegas of Asia. While we gambled in the Sands, we also felt a different presence there.

We were able to find the one Kung Fu school on Macau. They were blessing their temple with Lions and a Dragon dance. No one really spoke English, but I will try to figure out what style they were by showing Sifu Li the signs they had posted.

I believe I will try weekly posts to this blog, in hopes that writing down my ideas will enhance my knowledge.

Chris

Amazing!!!

2008-07-05T03:59:00.000-07:00

Amazing is the only way I can describe it. What a dream to not only get to come here to Hong Kong but to have students come also. Its full circle. I know my Sifu is proud and Grandmaster really enjoyed the trip. We will be back. Keep watching!

Last Day

2008-06-20T18:40:00.000-07:00

What a way to start a last day! We went to the park where Sifu Wong (Gabi's adopted Tai Chi Sifu) started teaching her his movements. He was very exact in his movements. Minor changes in stance and positioning to correct movements. He was very powerful to be 76 years old! He was very sad to see Gabi go. He wants her to come back and see her.

Eoin and Sam came to the park today where I had them run through their forms. It was hot and they were tired, but it was well worth it. I walked around the park and found some people playing Mantis. this turned out to be Master Yuen Man Kai. He is a school brother to Branden Lai of the Plum Flower Mantis System. He showed us a form and then gave us a free Mantis seminar. He knows of our Grandmaster and was kind enough to show us some pictures. Among the Pictures, was one from the U.K. from the White Cloud Kung Fu Association. I asked if he knew Steve Clark and he remembered him form his travels there. We had a lot of fun and wished we found him earlier in the trip as he promise to teach us. Doug, this was the same Master that our friends from Brazil learned from.

We will be going to the Big Buddha today on Lantau Island. Can't wait to get back, but will miss my Hong Kong.

Chris

Back Home!

2008-06-20T07:18:00.000-07:00

Well, I am finally getting the time to write in after being back home. It has been a whirlwind to say the least the last couple of weeks. I went straight to work when I arrived home. Whoa the jet lag!

I just want to say thank you to Sifu Chris for inviting me along on the trip. It was a great experience again! I was so happy that some of the students had a chance to go over and meet Si Gung. It is truly a once in a lifetime thing and I got to do it twice!

I am very proud of all of those guys that went. From what Chris has told me, they did a bang up job impressing Si Gung over the two days. I know they were nervous meeting him. We had a long talk about it my last night there where I tried to reassure them that everything would be fine.

I miss HK already and want to go back. I wished I would have had more time, but, as you know, we in America have many priorities that we must take care of and a week was all I could spare. I know more students will want to go in the future and I hope that Chris and I can go back and give them the experience that we have been able to live. It is truly "living the dream" as far as Kung Fu goes.

I want everyone to know that, and I can speak for Chris too I am sure, all my life, I have been wanting to train in a kung fu style that had depth and history and a legacy as we have all read and heard about. I will tell you now, that this style, Lai Tong Pai, has as much or more of these things as any other famous kung fu style and I am privileged to be carrying the banner, along side with Chris, in continuing the legacy of our style. Wearing the shirt around HK will prove this to anyone who questions it. "Ah, you train with Sifu Kong Hoi?" This is what you here from anyone in the martial arts world over there. He is a legend to say the least. And you are given respect for just being associated with him. We, as practitioners of the style, can only hope to accomplish all that he has for the style and we must strive to practice and continue to promote Lai Tong Pai now and in the future. One day, many years gone by, I hope that someone will be telling the story of our history and Chris's and my story of devotion will be spread to the future generations of practitioners.

In closing, WOW! what a blast it was. We have a lots to share with all who seeks Lai Tong Pai. I look forward to sharing it with all of you.

Chris, you are truly my brother in every aspect of the word. I salute you! Thanks again for all you have done and all you do.

Take care brothers and sisters of Kung Fu,

Sifu Anthony

Si-Gung was happy!!

2008-06-18T18:35:00.000-07:00

Grandmaster is happy. He really enjoyed spending time with the students and brought his wife by to see us. It was really nice to see his family.

We spent time with Sifu li's family last night. We love to see his family, they treat us like their own.

Gabi is having a lot of fun going to the park and doing Tai Chi with a Sifu Wong every morning. He is really good and started working the sword with her.

We are having lots of fun, see everyone soon!

Day One Down

2008-06-16T18:19:00.000-07:00

Everyone met Si-Gung (or Si-Jo as all the students are to call him)yesterday. Everyone was nervous but excited. Si-Gung wanted to see every ones form. All were nervous but everyone did fine. Si-Gung loves Gabi and speaks highly of how pretty she looks.
Si-Gung touched hands with everyone and commented on their skill. Most everyone was nervous. Si-Gung put them all at ease and related that he is just like everyone else and not a mean Sifu.
Si-Gung then showed the Pa Pi Doa form and taught all the students this form. This is a great honor as he told Anthony and me that he had never taught this form to anyone. It was clear he wanted to make this a special experience for all. He called everyone intelligent and had the right mind for Kung Fu. He called out Sam and said he had a mind for Kung Fu.
Si-Gung also said Eoin was too skinny and needed to beef up. He also made comments about how much power Steven has and how much better Derek has gotten.

More Later

Milestones

2008-06-15T15:25:00.000-07:00

This is our 50th post! Thanks to everyone that reads this blog!

Rain has been the story in Hong Kong. Where as we have had great weather everyday, it has rained Saturday and some Sunday. As I write this it is raining out now at 6:30am HKT. We were looking forward to going to the park and doing some Tai Chi. There is a Yang stylist there that is every impressive. Anthony and I have watched him several times and he gives us a bow as he walks in. He doesn't really do this to the others, letting us know that he recognizes us as Martial Artists.

Kung Fu Corner was yesterday. It was the 6th anniversary of the event and we saw some great performances. Among the arts were saw were Southern Style Mantis, White Eyebrow, Choy Li Fut, Hung Gar, wing Chun, Chen Tai Chi, Wu Style Tai Chi, Yang Tai Chi, and several northern styles which I did not recognized the names. Of the perform aces we saw, the Chen Tai Chi was very impressive. We have lots of video and we will be sharing with everyone. Lasha, if you would, we would like you to combine the video. At the Kung Fu Corner, they invited people from the audience to come up and learn some Tai Chi. Gabriele, Anthony, Eoin, and I went up and participated. This was such an honor to be part of the event in this way. Later, we met the president of the Hong Kong Chinese Martial Arts and Lion and Dragon Dancing Association. He invited correspondence with us and gave us the special shirts made just for the event. What an honor to perform in Hong Kong!

Anthony leaves today in just a few hours. I hate to see him go, as you never know when you will be back. Mario, Richard, and Jeff, be proud to study with your Sifu, he has shown true perseverance and love for the art. Grandmaster is proud to have him continue the legacy of Lai Tung Pai.

More Later!

Everyone is Here

2008-06-14T05:56:00.000-07:00

We are at the Harbor as we speak and are having a good time. Anthony and I are so proud we get to have students come to see Grandmaster.

It is also a sad time as we found out our friend Joyce has pasted away from cancer. She helped us a lot in 2006 in talking to Si-Gung. She will be missed.

Anthony leaves Monday and we are also sad about that. These trips are living the dream to train with a great Master. I am honored my school brother came with us.

2008-06-12T18:42:00.000-07:00

Hi Students, Family and Friends:

What an exciting week it has been. It is Friday morning here and Chris and I have woken up early each day. Today, we woke up at 0530am, got dressed, and headed down to the park to watch the tai chi players. It is a beautiful park and gives you a feeling of being in the asian jungle at times. We worked on Lao Ying, Sup Say Lo/Som Bil Sow, our new Pa Pi form and the our two tai chi forms Wu Shin and the Gik Son Foon. We felt great afterwards. It was hot though.

I am feeling better. Si Gung has given me a prescription (natural something) and then yesterday, Chris wasn't feeling well either, so he gave us some herbs from the shelf for our stomachs. It looked like rabbit food pellets! It did not taste good, but not bad either. Today, I am much better. Si Gung is so awesome!

We worked on Kuen Jong yesterday. We were enlightened alot...as usual. Students, you will learn many things when you are here even though you may not realize it. The experience will be one that you will tell you grandkids about! You are all part of a great thing in Lai Tong Pai and part of an ongoing family and legacy.

Mario, Richard and Jeff, I wish you guys were here to experience it all! Shawna I miss you! Alex, Nick, Erik and Krystin, you all would not believe it all! Mom, Dad, and the rest of my fam, it is some experience and it is my second time here, but still it is a feeling that cannot be when it comes to travel. Michah, BINKS! I call him, my grandkid, you will benefit from all that I have done here if you keep up your interest in the art. All the rest of you are invited to learn as well.

I miss you all. Will be home Monday. Sadly, this is my last day with Si Gung, but the students will be here today and I look forward to sharing with them....the Dream!

Anthony

Special Gifts

2008-06-12T17:50:00.000-07:00

Grandmaster started going back over forms we already do and correcting bad postures. We may get a bench form today, if he can find a bench. Anthony is sad, as this is his last day with Grandmaster. We are excited, as everyone comes today. In 8 hours of this post, they will be here.

What an Honor

2008-06-11T18:03:00.000-07:00

Today Grandmaster gave us "something special." I would go into more detail, but it is personal to Anthony and me so we will just say it is an incredible gift.

We finished the Pa Pi Doa this day and wore Anthony and I out again. We came back and took a nap, then out on the town. We went to the Ladies Market and ate at a Pasta place before going to the Harbor. The Harbor is an amazing place at night, no matter when you go there. Doug, Si-Gung asked how you were and pulled out the photo sheet you sent him of the past years events. He was very honored that you would send it to him.

Grandmaster is going into great detail in some areas. Mike, you will really enjoy the clairifaction of the Tai Chi form. Gaps are closing and we are gaining new insights. Where does the power go? How do you train for senseitity in the limbs? These are questions that are being answered.

Students, meet us at the exit to the "B" area where you get your luggage. Steve, hope your not too sore!

Catching up

2008-06-10T18:01:00.000-07:00

Changing Hotels has put us behind and a lot has happened. Anthony has gotten sick and I got an eye infection. Si_Gung has given me some medicine and it is helping. Anthony has is gastric infection he fights with so he has gone on a liquid diet. We are both losing weight, 6 pounds each in the first two days!
Yesterday we started the Pa Pi Doa form. Si-Gung said he rarely taught this form to anyone. He also said no one has as much of the style as we have. He has taught everything but not to one person. He gave us his certificate that allows him to teach Kung Fu in Hong Kong. To teach you have to go through a lot of investigation before allowed to teach.
Students, Anthony and I have arranged for you to have 2 days with Grandmaster and he will teach you a form. This costs a little more but I think you will find it is well worth it. Again don't be nervous!
We went to the park this morning and watched several people doing Kung Fu, mostly Tai Chi. It is an awesome sight and I can't wait for us to be in the park with them.
See you soon!

WOW!! It's GREAT

2008-06-09T04:10:00.000-07:00

We are here and Si Gung was so excited that we are here. Chris and I have walked so much today. We cannot wait to share the walking with you guys coming over. We were up at 6 am and working out soon thereafter. Much practice to do tonight so we are ready for tomorrow. Got to go now. take care all!

First Day

2008-06-09T03:42:00.000-07:00

See the last post on how we started. We then went back to 9 Dragon Park and had a short workout. Off o our sightseeing for the day, where I plan to hold a training session while everyone is here, the Walled City Park. This beautiful place is a local hangout for people doing Martial Arts. We found a person doing Wu Style and took the time to chat a few minutes. Then we went to lunch at the King Wah. We weren't treated well and ate little. Then we went to see Si-Gung
Si-Gung gave us a hug and was very happy to see us. He discussed with us what we want to learn. There is another double sword form we start tomorrow. Today we went in detail over the Tai Chi form. As we learned it so fast last time, we now are getting corrected movements and more understanding. Si-Gung then wanted a late lunch. Back to the King Wah.
We were treated much better this time. Si-Gung admonished them on the way we were treated the last time. We miss the food and Si-Gung is just as funny as ever.
Students, Si-Gung said not to be nervous, he is just like anyone else.
Yeah Whatever!!!

Were Here!!!

2008-06-08T16:51:00.000-07:00

Monday Morning and we just had breakfast. Anthony is a perferred member at the Hotel and we are treated like Kings! We are getting ready to leave to the Walled City park, where is is said Kung Fu is done there daily. We will pratice there then eat lunch at the Red Ant (Doug will be jealous)and will see Grandmaster in the afternoon. Students, be ready. The plane is long and cold and we will meet you at B exit to take you by train. We still can't believe we are in Hong Kong!

On Our Way!

2008-06-07T05:10:00.000-07:00

Anthony has just left and I am in the airport. I always look for signs before I go, well last night I watched the new movie Kung Fu Panda. I can say without spoiling the plot it is a comic personification of Anthony's and my story at the school. I highly recommend this movie, its one for the whole family. I board in about an hour and my next post will be in Hong Kong!

I'm On!!

2008-06-05T13:32:00.000-07:00

Hi Guys! I am on the blog.

5 days

2008-06-02T03:25:00.000-07:00

We leave in 5 days. I already start to miss some of the things we have here like family and pets. I trained with my school bvrother, Sifu Mike Garcia, yesterday and went over some internal concepts that might be useful to me when I go. Sifu Anthony is sick right now and I hope him a speedy recovery. 5 days, i can't believe I get to live the dream again.

10 Days

2008-05-28T13:53:00.000-07:00

We are a short 10 days away. Nerves kick in. What will we do? What will we learn? This feels like our 2004 trip when Anthony and I went by ourselves. We had never been to Asia and we were living the dream. 10 Days. I can hardly wait.

15 Days Away

2008-05-22T03:25:00.000-07:00

It is 15 days until Sifu Anthony and I head to Hong Kong. We are training everyday to prepare. We do not know what we will learn, as all the forms Sifu Li knows we have already gained. In 21 days our school comes over and we will train everyday. We look forward to seeing Hong Kong again and i look forward to showing them around. We are truly going to live the dream.

Questions?????

2008-05-13T09:26:00.000-07:00

Sifu Li called Si-Gung Sunday and informed him of our dates when we will train. Si-Gung said all was fine and was ready for us. Sifu Li said he did not know what we will learn, as all the forms he knew Lai Tung had were now taught to us.
Sifu Anthony and I will be ready for the challenge. Will Si-Gung teach us details, another form, applications, chi control, all of the above? Who knows, but know this, we are excited.

Countdown

2008-05-05T15:40:00.000-07:00

The school did well at the CACMA Tournament and now we look toward Hong Kong. We are getting excited as it is only one month away. I hope we are ready. Anthony and I will go first, then the others. We are truly blessed to be able to live the dream!

The Return

2008-04-03T03:37:00.000-07:00

The school is going again to Hong Kong. I will be going back june 7th with Sifu Anthony to train one more time with Grandmaster. Students Eoin, Steven, Derek, Jerry, Sam, and Gabriele will be joining us on the 13th. Are we excited? Yes!!!

Training and Perspective

2006-11-28T11:38:00.000-08:00

What an awesome opportunity to train with the Grandmaster of Lai Tung Pai, Kong Chiu Hoi, in Hong Kong and to accompany Sifu Chris Facente, Sifu Chris Woodrow, and Mint Hill Lai Tung Pai practitioner, Derek Nester, these last couple of weeks!! Having trained in northern style Kung Fu for 35 years, where footwork mobility and forward movement with the feet and body are king, it was quite revealing to train in a top notch southern style, Lai Tung Pai, where stability and forward movement of the "encircling hands" are king. Many times during training I was reminded by the translator that "I play the Bok Pai" (northern style) instead of the "Lam Kuen" (southern style). It will take much time to reflect and train utilizing all of the new information in light of this new perspective. Again, my thanks and gratitude go out to Sifu Chris Facente, who Grandmaster Kong Chiu Hoi designated as a future heir to Lai Tung Pai!

We have forged our spirits in the tradition of our ancestors

2006-11-24T01:17:00.000-08:00

We have done it! We learned 8 forms in 12 days. We are sad to say goodbye but happy to get back home. I leave 11:35 HK time and get to the USA 11:40 US Time. Just a 5 minute flight.

Thank you all for reading the blog and keeping up with us. See everyone soon!

One Day Left, One Form To Go!

2006-11-23T03:07:00.000-08:00

Si-Gung presented us with the Si-Mo Dao or Mother-Son sword set. This form can be done with the double broadswords or with a long and short sword. Si-Gung said it has only been taught to 5 people by him. What an honor to learn such a form. Tomorrow we learn the Butterfly swords. He has only taught 3 people this form. Derek has really stepped up to the plate and done really well. Si-Gung still misses Chris Woodrow.

Be back Saturday, have a happy thanksgiving and I'll be at class Sunday.

More Later...

Two Days Left!

2006-11-22T07:11:00.000-08:00

We learned the Lai Tung Broadsword form today. This is , as all Lai Tung Forms, a short set so we learned it all in one day. This still leaves us with at least two more forms. We later went to the harbor and saw the start of Chirstmas in Hong Kong. It is a truly incredible sight. Bulidings lit from top to bottom with Christmas lights. I cannot describe it. I am starting to fell good about coming home, but sad as it will be long time before I will see Si-Gung again.

More later...

Rain and Review

2006-11-21T18:29:00.000-08:00

We started the day with a workout in the park. Derek had not been used to the fast pace and so we took time to work the new forms. We ate breakfast and went to the park again with Doug. Here we met a young lady also doing kung fu. As we worked out we noticed she was doing the same thing as us following along as we did the forms slowly. She could not speak English but we shared some techniques. The world of Kung Fu is a small place and speaks a universal language.

Today it rained a lot and Si-Gung had us reviewing all we had learned. He asked me a lot of questions about the school and was happy to Landon's form. It rained so hard we had to stop working out. We went with Si-Gung to buy weapons, Chris W. I got you a set of Butterfly swords and bought the school a set of Cern Dao. You have some change left over. Si-Gung is going to give us three more forms in the last three days! This will give our total of 8 forms in 12 days.

More later...

Back in the US

2006-11-20T08:13:00.000-08:00

Well, I made it back to the US on Saturday. I missed my scheduled flight from Chicago to Charlotte and ended up spending over 5 hours in the airport. Amazingly enough, my bags made it to Charlotte before I did!

All-in-all, this was a great trip. My understanding of the style has increased greatly. It was also great to see where Sifu trained and to work with Si Gung. From the stories, I'm really glad that I am a grandchild!

2006-11-20T05:57:00.000-08:00

Zow! We learned an exciting new and demanding form (Elo Kuen) today. Lots of spark and fire! This morning we practiced in the park to review last weeks material and we are rising early to meet Derrick for a couple of hours of training. ...Coming down to the wire and have learned quite a lot so far.

Back to Work!!!!

2006-11-20T05:50:00.000-08:00

Boy was the two days off nice, but now it was time to get back to it. Si-Gung taught us another new form Elo Kuen. I have never even heard of this form. Derek was tired and excited to meet Si-Gung, but he didn't sleep too much the night before. This took its toll of him early, as you can read by his blog below.

Doug and I went shopping for more stuff and bought some. We found a book store but they were closing in 5 minutes so we came back here and thought we would blog.

More to come, tomorrow Si-Gung is taking us to buy high quality weapons.

2006-11-19T05:16:00.000-08:00

After breakfast Chris and I practiced the newest Lai Tung Pai forms this am for about an hour at the public park - they're starting to integrate a little bit - and then off to watch the ''Kung Fu Corner" in Kowloon Park near where Derek ("Spicey D") and Stan (Derek's Dad, aka "Big Daddy") are staying. [They had gone to the Po Lin Monastery this am and probably will have lots to say about their journey.] Sifu Lee's sister May joined us to watch the local kung fu practice too. After the opening Lion Dance at the Kung Fu Corner, a couple of Wushu and Tai Chi groups demonstrated for almost 2 hours their solo and group empty hand and weapons forms, including single and double fan, broadsword, straight sword, and staff forms. As Chris mentioned, while we were watching 2 Kung Fu competitors from Brazil came up to us and said that they had recognized us from Hunt Valley (Baltimore) Kuoshu Tournament earlier this year. "Small World", is right! We chatted for awhile and took some pictures. As the demonstrations wound down, we parted ways, we headed back to the Kowloon Hotel to meet Derek and Stan, who then joined us for dinner and the street markets by our hotel here.

Chris Leaves, Derek in the House, Party Time!

2006-11-18T20:41:00.000-08:00

Our brother, Chris Woodrow went back to the states on Saturday. He was sad but looks forward to getting home and seeing his family. Derek came in Friday night and met us for a trip to the Peak. Derek brought his father along and he wasn't thrilled about the steps in Hong Kong.

We went and had supper with Sifu Li's family. They, as always, welcomed us as family. Sifu's mom was happy I brought pictures, and we were glad we brought a smile to her face. I know she misses her son very much. We were deep in the New Territories. The locals were surprised to see "round eye" this deep in Hong Kong. As always, this was a fantastic meal that we would have never found.

Later as we were going back, we decided to check out the German Bier Fest at the Marco Polo hotel. This was the party in Hong Kong! Ask me for the pictures and video of the Chicken Dance and Alpine Horn contest. Stephen, you missed the party.

We woke up later than normal Sunday morning and went to breakfast. There we met a New Zealand female power lifter. We had an interesting conversation. We then went to our park and worked out for a good hour. This felt good to loosen up and get back in the swing of things. We went to the park to see the Kung Fu in the park, a weekly demo put on by local schools. This day was mostly Tai Chi. Talk about a small world, we met two competitors from Baltimore and Doug and I had in our rings! They went to the Singapore tournament and were taking a little tour of Asia. Incredible!

More later...

Time to review

2006-11-17T06:18:00.000-08:00

We had a review day today. Si-Gung has given us time to comprehend all the forms by letting us do them over and over. Si-Gung has let us play Luk Sao with our Si-Suk's(Kung Fu brothers of our instructor) and he let us teach them as we are more skilled. Chris Woodrow's last day and he really shone as he made quick work of one of the Si-Suk's.

Did I mention we climb 114 steps (7 flights) of stairs to training every day?

More later...

2006-11-16T07:20:00.000-08:00

Day 6 and we are developing a group dynamic in our forms- the effort and intensity are magnifying and our breathing and coordination are unifying. From the internal form to the southern long fist and short fist forms, we are building a cohesive group presentation that reflects our individual passion for martial strength and passion.

We already have our money's worth and we still have 6 days left!

2006-11-16T06:21:00.000-08:00

We finished off BaGua Poon Kuen today. Si-Gung is setting a blistering pace. For those reading the blog that don't do Kung Fu, imagine learning how to tap dance one day, swing dance another, and modern dance the next. This is what learning new forms are like. We worked some weapons today. The heat is rough, around 85-90 and 80% humidity.

Miss everyone, more later...

Training Day 6

2006-11-16T06:11:00.000-08:00

The days are going by faster and faster. Another day without an interpreter. I think we actually get more out of these days than when Julie is there. Some times it's hard to understand, but for the most part, we can figure things out between the hand signals and the little bit of English that Si Gung knows.

We got to touch hands with 2 Si Suks today. It was a great experience. Si Gung used this opportunity to teach everyone some new things. Afterwards, Si Gung was proud of us all. All-in-all a good day.

Training Day 5

2006-11-15T06:36:00.000-08:00

Day 5 - Start of Form #4. My brain is getting overloaded, but we are getting a lot of good stuff. It has been amazing touching hands with Si Gung. It's true what Sifu says - Si Gung really does have 3 hands. You think that you have both of his hands tied up, and then you feel something on your chest. Luckily for me, he just taps me; he likes to tickle Chris F.

more later...

2006-11-15T05:32:00.000-08:00

My thanks and appreciation again to Sifu Chris Facente for the invitation to join him and Sifu Chris Woodrow for 15 days of training with the Grandmaster of Lei Tung Pai, Kong Chiu-Hoi! Grandmaster Kong Hoi, "Si-Gong" is a ball of energy in his mid-late 70'S! He is tough yet generous with his 'time and effort". Today we completed the 5th day of training and we are into our 4th form! The volume of information has been at the top! We have spent 4 hours in the afternoon with Si-Gong each day learning and repeating the forms, and doing "luk sao" with each other and with Si-Gong! After dinner and dropping off to sleep some nights right after we get back to the room, we arise to start again. After breakfast we walk to the local park to practice and analyze the information. Because of my background in "bok pai", northern style forms, Si-Gong has now recommended that I apply myself and "empty my cup" and I have strived to do that from Day One. Rolling Hands with Chris and Chris and Si-Gong has been quite revealing and thrilling and I look forward to this fascinating form of practice drills each day.

We learn more...

2006-11-15T05:05:00.000-08:00

Today we started Bagua Poon Kuen. This was a form I have wanted to learn for years. Sifu has always talked about this form. We have all but seven moves. It is fun, but I have the flu and had to take it easy today. Chris and Doug did not however; and they trained hard as possible. Si-Gung is very respectful to Doug and his art. He respects that Doug is still learning and told us how we must practice every day to keep the information fresh in our minds. I hear Jerry did well at the tournament, hope all else is good back there.

More later...

Another Day, Another Form

2006-11-14T07:04:00.000-08:00

We learned the Poon Kuen form today. Si Gung wanted to see what forms we do so we demo-ed them for him. He was proud for what Sifu Li taught us. I have new respect for Sifu Li. We train 4 hours on a roof under the hot Hong Kong sun. Sifu Li trained every day for 1 year, 6-8 hours a day. Training is hard. We asked Si-Gung what Sifu was like when he trained. Si-Gung was very mean to his students. One of Sifu's S-Hing's (older school brother) said they were beat up after training. We are like the grandchildren, Si-Gung is very nice to us.

More Later...

Its not all training...

2006-11-13T04:20:00.000-08:00

We did have the previous day off (see below) and we made the most of it.
We got an early start up to the peak. This it is quite an adventure. The tram goes up at a step angle. Doug is a little scared of heights and was not comfortable. When we got to the top, words cannot describe the view. We ate breakfast at a ritzy restaurant overlooking the city and harbor. The haze was bad but lots could still be seen.

We left and went to Lantau Island where the Po Lin Monastery is. The Po Lin is very famous for its 30 meter high Bronze Buddha. Lots of steps up to the Buddha. We also went to the temple grounds and did our Tai Chi. It was quite and experience.

Kevin and his parents took us to a restaurant in Kowloon City by the old airport. This was the best meal we had so far and one of the least expensive. Kevin’s family treated us like one of their own. They toured us around town and told us they thought of us like family. It was the perfect ending to a great day.

Training Day 3

2006-11-13T04:07:00.000-08:00

Wow - I don't even know what to say about today. We had arranged to have lunch with Si Gung, but then found out that the translator would not be present today. Luckily, Joyce was there at the start to understand our dietary restrictions. I never thought that the food would stop coming. Needless to say, 4 hours of training on a full stomach...

Amazingly enough, we were able to learn a lot of things without actually talking. We finished up the Ya Sa Sau form, did a lot of Luk Sau, and practiced fighting openings. It is amazing what Si Gung can do. No matter what you think you have covered, there is another hand coming at your chest.

Tomorrow's another day - and there is another form to learn. Time to get some sleep.

Second Day

2006-11-11T05:58:00.000-08:00

Well how about this. We did our intensive training, starting with practicing the form we learned yesterday. Si-Gung really drove it into our heads to stay up with him so we can learn the most. We picked a random stop on the subway and walked around. There was an outdoor food market not for the weak of stomach! We will just say fish heads, chicken feet and a whole goat. We came back and went to Si-Gung's place. We have been honored enough to train where Sifu Li used to train. Si-Gung taught us the begining to Ya Say Sow (24 hands) and worked on the 5 element tai chi form. Si-Gung gave us an intense but fulfilling workout. We left Si-Gung and decided to go to the horbor. Hong Kong harbor is quite beautiful at night. I am writting this form a coffee house right on the horbor looking at a Chinese Junk sail by. I hope everyone is well. I miss everyone and wish everybody could share this experience. I miss Gabi the most.

More Later....

We are Here!!!!

2006-11-10T06:12:00.000-08:00

Wow, we have made it. I will spare the details of the 15 hour flight and the train ride, but Hong Kong!!! We have seen our school brothers and completed our first day of training with Si-Gung(Grandmaster). We are learing the Five Element Tai Chi form. Si-Gung wanted to see our staff work and gave it his thumbs up!! I asked about the other forms (Sil Poon Sow, Di Poon Sow, Ya Say Lo and Bagua Poon Kuen) and Si-Gung said he would share all he learned from the Shaolin Temple when he was there. This is an exciting time to be here and studying Kung Fu.

More soon...

Almost Time

2006-11-01T15:14:00.000-08:00

Sifu Chris Si Hing Chris and Sifu Doug all leave next week. I leave in exactly 2 weeks. I'm very excited to meet and study with Si Gung. I'm also nervous. I've been working hard to learn all I can before we go so that I can get the most of my time with Si Gung. I feel like I barley have a handle on all I've learned so far and I know Si Gung will be teaching us new forms. It will probably take me at least a year to really understand and perfect all the new things I've learned. That's the fun of kung fu it's a life long learning process. Wish me luck!

2006-10-29T03:32:00.000-08:00

What can I say? We have been training hard with Sifu Li and Sifu Alan. The lessons learned are nothing short of amazing. We have all advanced to the next level now. Sifu Li is impressed with our progress, but I know it is because of our wonderful teachers. My friend Sifu Doug Moffett is going to join us to train with Grandmaster. I am honored he would like to come study and I am hoping his insights will give us more understanding as we train.

I also would like to thank all of our spouses and friends for the support. Thank you for letting us live our dreams.

2 Weeks to Go

2006-10-25T04:30:00.000-07:00

Kung Ho Kung Fu Assn Blog
Well, 2 weeks until we leave. It's down to crunch time in getting in the final training and preparation. Blending the teaching of Sifu with the insights offered by Sifu Alan have led to much growth, but also much confusion. How can you be soft and not panic when you feel that fist headed for you? How can you generate power without turning your waist? How do you hide your power until the last second? Many questions...much learning to do...

On Track

2006-10-17T03:14:00.000-07:00

Three weeks from tomorrow we are embarking on our journey. My good friend Alan is in Charlotte for 3 weeks and I feel this is a gift sent to me. He has over 35 years in Tai Chi and his touch is like Grandmasters. I have been training with him every night in the hopes of being able to get what I need from Grandmaster. More soon...

2006-10-08T04:42:00.000-07:00

Training is going well. Chris and Derek have really impressed me with thier abilities and strength. The force of conviction they have is worthy of training with Si-Gung.

Just 1 full month away.

Brand new blog...

2006-09-20T05:53:00.000-07:00

In November, several people from our school will be travelling to Hong Kong to train with our Sigung, Kong Hoi. This blog will allow them to share their experiences with those of us not fortunate enough to join them.