A Martial Arts Community Newsletter
Volume 3, Issue #10, April - May 1998
Content:
Chinese Cultural Festival at Tri-C
1998 Arnold Schowarzenegger Fitness Event
1998 International Wushu-Kungfu Champ.
The Roots of Chinese MA.
Wu Song Breaks Manacles
Self Defense Method for Women
1997 Open Invitational Wu Tang Tournament
Newsbits
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Chinese Cultural Festival
Martial Arts Demonstration at Cuyahoga Community
College
Starting from March 7, 1998, under the
planning and supervision of Dr. Lucille Gruber, Director of Cultural
Arts for the Cuyahoga Community College, The college presented
a Chinese Cultural Festival at Asia Plaza, a full day event and
cultural exchange. All events planned for this day were free to
the public to participate.
Variety of activities was planned
for Asia Plaza, starting with a chance to learn how to make Chinese
buns at Superior Bakery, and followed with Simon Chen writting
your name in Chinese characters. A wonderful Dim Sum at Li Wah
Restaurant was then the follow up break for all. Later an introduction
to the Mandarin language was presented at the Conference room
by Dr. Li Ming Wang, followed up by a martial arts demonstration
lead by Sifu Johnny Wu. Three schools performed at Asia Plaza,
starting with Sifu Mark Pringle and his students of Coiling Dragon
Wushu Kwan in Girard, Ohio performing different Taiji forms and
demonstrated the uses of Taiji in self-defense; Sifu T`shaka Brown
and students from the Shaolin Kung Fu School here in Cleveland
demonstrated their system including contemporary wushu forms.
Sifu Brown performed a straight sword routine, since we didn`t
have a sword handy, Sifu Wu requested one of the stores to loan
us a sword and the store owner gladly gave us a hand, in addition,
Sifu Brown also demonstrated different types of chin-na (joint
locking). Finally, Sifu Johnny Wu performed a short routine which
was composed of different techniques put together into an spontaneously
improvised form. At the end of the demonstrations, the spectators
were impressed with the skill of the performers. After the martial
arts demonstration, Susan Deng gave a lecture on Acupuncture and
Chinese Herbal Medicine at the conference room.
That evening, at Cuyahoga Community College Metropolitan Campus
Auditorium, free of charge to the public, from 6:30pm, Rongchun
Zhao, one of China`s foremost Erhu virtuosos performed a blend
of Chinese and Western music with his incredible talent, the music
was echoing with power and creativity.
Follow up at 7:45pm, Sifu Johnny Wu coordinated and organized
a two hour martial arts demonstration, with several schools from
Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio and Sharon, PA participating under
one roof. To make this demonstration different to other events
Sifu Wu had organized in the past, this was presented as a brief
historical recount of the emergence of the Chinese martial arts,
the event was also being presented to help the spectators understand
how members of the Pekin Opera trained for their performances.
The Pekin Opera performed on Thursday, March 12, 1998 at the State
Theatre located on Playhouse Square. (It was a breath-taking martial
arts-acrobatic demonstration)
The martial arts demonstation begun with Lion Dance performance
by 2 schools: The Dragon Wushu School of Cleveland with Dr. Guang
Liang and Coiling Dragon Wushu Kwan of Girard, Ohio with Sifu
Mark Pringle. Both Lion Dances perfomed with awe and delighted
the public.
Continuing with an introduction by Sifu Wu with the oldest
style in China, Shuai-Chiao by Sifu John Ervin Jr. and students
of Wing Lam Kung Fu from Garfield Hts, Ohio. Wing Lam School competed
on December 1997 at the World Shuai-Chiao in China and won several
medals and awards. Shuai-Chiao originated more than two thousand
years ago, although some claim its origin was as early as 2000
B.C. Shuai-chiao is a kind of self-defense art which is based
on natural, physical laws of force. Its purpose is to keep your
balance and to make your opponent lose his balance in order to
take him down. The words shuai-chiao literally means `throwing
and horns`. This is because the art consists of many throws and
because of the visual illusion created by the early shuai-chiao
practitioner when they grappled.
Sifu Ervin`s group performed several basic shuai-chiao techniques,
diagonal striking, neck surrounding, elbow locking, march and
kick, etc. And a training method called Belt Cracking. Belt Cracking
increases the grabbing and arm strength necessary in matches.
Combined with the basic forms and stances, it increases fluency,
coordination and correctness of ones posture. By cracking a belt
while performing a basic form or stance, one`s mind is diverted
from the stress created by the stance, therefore, one can remain
in the stance longer than normal. After the Belt Craking, several
of Sifu Ervin`s students and he performed Shuai-Chiao applications.
In addition to Shuai-Chiao, the Wing Lam Kung Fu School offers
a full curriculum in Nothern Shaolin, 7 Star Praying Mantis and
Taijiquan. Several students performed the basic Lian Hua Chuan,
Lian Bu Chuan, two man fighting set, weapon forms, and Sifu &
Simu Ervin perfomed a two person chin-na set (many spectators
including Dr. Gruber enjoyed watching Simu Ervin, as a small lady,
doing several chin-na and throwing Sifu Ervin, a big person, around
with ease)
Sifu T`shaka Brown and his students of the School of Arts:
Shaolin Kung Fu, Cleveland, Ohio, performed the Shaolin system.
Shaolin is a very well known system in China, one of the leading
kung fu schools in the past and present. Shaolin has been a great
influence in Chinese history. Sifu Brown has been a student of
the Chinese martial arts system for more than 25 years. He has
studied with many instructors, including Master James Cook in
Shaolin Kung Fu, Master Hu Wei-Hue in Taiji, Baqua and Xingyi,
Dr. Liang Guang in Taiji and Dragon Fist, and Master Nick Gracenin
of Chinese Wushu.
Master Shu-ton Tony Yang and students from
the Wu Tang Martial Arts Association of Ohio from Canton, Ohio
performed next. Several sets were being demonstrated by Master
Yang and his students, including Baji and Pi Qua. These are very
old martial arts systems dating before the 1600s. Baji Quan (8
infinite fist) is explosive in nature and characterized by loud
stomping. The body is relaxed until the point of impact. It is
considered both an Internal and External system and its effectiveness
in close-range fighting comes from making use of the entire body.
Pi Qua Zhang (chopping / hanging palm), on the other hand, is
open, with whip-like movements controlled thru the twisting of
the waist. It is used primarily for long range fighting. At the
Masters' level, BaJi and Pi Qua are combined in form and often
used to deliver blows to the bodies acupuncture cavities. The
system was so effective the it was often taught to the bodyguards
of emperors and presidents. As one of his last disciples, Master
Yang Shu-Ton learned these systems directly from the late Grandmaster
Liu Yun-Chiao, who in turn was the last disciple of the Great
BaJi / Pi Qua master Li Su-Wen, Also known as "Wonder Spear".
In addition, Wu Tang Martial Arts Association of Ohio performed
several weapon forms and the Praying Mantis: 7 Star, 8 Step Praying,
etc. Praying Mantis is a very fierce fighting system. Under the
guidance of Sifu Yang, Wu Tang students usually start with the
8 Step Praying Mantis System and then move into the 7 Star System.
Other systems taught include the Plum Blossom System, The Tight
Door System and the 6 Harmony System. Sifu Yang learned most of
his Praying Mantis as a disciple of Praying Mantis Master Su Yi-
Chang, one of Grandmaster Liu's first disciples.
After a 10 minutes intermission, the martial arts show continued.
First with Sifu Tony Brown of Columbus, Ohio. Hung Gar is one
of the known system created in South of China, near Canton, the
system was founded by a disciple of the Shaolin Temple after it
was burned down during the Qing Dynasty. His son, Wong Fei-Hong
(portrayed many times by action martial artist Jackie Chan, Jet
Li in popular movies as Drunken Master, Drunken Master II, Once
Upon A Time in China I, II, III and V). Master Wong was considered
one of the 10 Tigers of Canton (very skilled martial artists in
the 1900s). Sifu Tony Brown, who has been training Chinese Martial
Arts for over 25 years, is a practitioner of Southern Chinese
Kung Fu. He received his training from William J. Chung and So,
Che-Sun (Hung Gar), Gin Foon Mark, Andy Chung, and Henry Poo Yee
(Jook Lum Mantis), and Laurie Lowe (Hung Jong Kuen). He began
Yang Taijiquan under Dr. Joseph Lau in Florida, and then was coached
by Tung Kai Yin's School in Copenhagen, Denmark. He has had the
priviledge to work with such reknown teachers as Wong Jurong,
Yu Wen-Mei, Wang Yen-Nien, and Tan Ching-Ngee. As a full-contact
competitor, Sifu Brown has participated in the 8th and 7th World
Cup in Taiwan, and was a silver medalist at the 1st Omsk International
Competition in 1993 (Siberia). He presently is teaching in Columbus,
Ohio and has a school in Posgrunn, Norway. Sifu Brown and his
daughters and students performed Tiger Crane Set, Tiger Tail Broadsword,
Butterfly Knives, Plum Flower Spear, and Chun I Chuan were performed
by Naomi, Eden, and Bethel Brown (Sifu Brown`s excellent daughters)
Wing Chun of Cleveland performed next with the guidance of
Master Buddy Wu. Wing Chun was created by a nun in order to protect
herself against
bandits during the late Qing Dynasty. The idea of Wing Chun was
to utilize direct approach to counter your opponent. Master Buddy
Wu began studying Wing Chun in Hong Kong in 1966 under Master
Ho Kam Ming. Grandmaster Ho Kam Ming. Grandmaster Ho was one of
Yip Man`s senior disciples and studied with him for many years
before opening his own schools in Hong Kong in 1965. Master Wu
was one of Master Ho`s assistant instructors before coming to
the US. Master Wu and his students performed several short hand
forms and a few self-defense techniques using the forms.
The Dragon Wushu School of Cleveland with Dr. Guang Liang.
Dragon Fist Kung Fu is a Southern style in China. It was created
as a very aggressive and powerful style in attempt to attack opponents
as fast and powerfully as possible. Dr. Liang, a certified Acupunturist,
also teaches Dragon Fist and Taijiquan to his students and patients
(when needed). Dr. Liang also is known for his qigong healing
methods. He has participated with the Han Wei organization since
1994 and is currently one of the instructor teaching at the Cleveland
Chinese Martial Arts Association.
Finally, we arrive at modern Chinese martial arts with Contemporary
Wushu and students from Nick Gracenin`s Wushu School in Sharon,
PA. Coordinated by Sifu Mark Pringle, one of Master Gracenin`s
senior disciple, they started first with different internal systems,
demonstrating their smooth, internal energy, followed by Master
Gracenin`s students, aging from 8 to 11 years old, performing
what can be seen at the Pekin Opera. Contemporary Wushu is currently
considered as the standard martial arts training for competition.
Students involve themselves with hours of training not only in
the martial arts skill but also into the acrobatic movements as
seen in Chinese Opera where Jackie Chan, Sumo Huang and others
once had their start. Master Nick Gracenin has a reputation for
excellence in Chinese Martial Arts that few Westerners have ever
achieved. A top student of renowned Master Bow-Sim Mark of Boston,
MA (her son, Donnie Yen is currently a martial arts expert in
Hong Kong and had starred in many movies as well). Master Gracenin
is extremely fluent in both external and internal styles. He has
traveled to China over a dozen times for training with the world`s
foremost experts in many traditional forms. Gracenin has competed
at five World Tournaments in China, wining gold, silver and bronze
medals to become the most awarded non-Chinese athlete ever in
his sport. Master Gracenin also participated as member of the
US Wushu Team during the 1995 World Wushu Championship held in
Baltimore, Maryland. His students have won titles at every major
event in the United States.
The result of all the events for March 7 can be considered
to be very succesful, we left a big impact on many of the Chinese
culture and it`s people.
1998 Arnold Schwarzenegger Martial Arts Festival,
Columbus, Ohio
By Mike & Karen Berger
The Arnold Schwarzenneger fitness classic held on March 6-8,
1998 was a huge success for both the bodybuilding, and the martial
arts world. Three years ago Arnold Schwarzenneger agreed to include
martial arts as a part of his sport and fitness event, because
he felt that martial arts develops character & strength for
children, keeps them healthier and off the streets and away from
drugs. Arnold`s own children are now active in taking martial
arts classes every week. This combining of the fitness event with
the martial arts and using Arnold`s image and popularity has laid
the ground work for a world class event that is here to stay.
The martial arts part of the event is coordinated by Doug Grant
(a 5th Dan in Judo) and the tournament is run by Mike Hixon Jr.
& Sr. with help from many people to numerous to mention. All
have done an excellent job.
The martial arts division has grown so rapidly that it has
outgrown the space allotted in Veterans Memorial center and there
is a possibility of expanding to a larger place for next years
event. 1999 plans include the possibility of a tournament to unite
all the scoring organizations under one roof. This could include
separate tournaments run by the PKC, NASKA, EUSA, NBL, RSKC with
the winners of each organization then competing against each other
for a grand championship. They are also planning on expanding
from 58 to 125 divisions.
This years event drew even more people than last years. There
was an estimated 50,000 people total at the three day event including
7000 for the martial arts portion with approx. 500 competitors.
The event this year drew some famous celebrities from Hollywood,
sports and the martial arts. Some of these included Donald Trump,
`The Hulk` Lou Ferigno, Gregory Hines - dancer/actor, John Elway
- Quarterback of the Denver Bronco`s and several of his teammates,
Eric Lee - actor, Cynthia Rothrock - actress, Don `The Dragon`
Wilson - actor, Dan Severn `The Beast` - UFC Champion, Maurice
Smith - UFC Champion, Mathias Hughes - actor, and of course the
one who made it all happen Mr. Arnold Schwarzenegger.
The weekend started on Friday with the preliminary competitions
for the tournament and the demo team competition. The tournament
preliminaries ran through part of Saturday and then during the
afternoon started with the semi finals. The demo team competition
started on Friday with 17 teams from around the world competing
for 5 minutes each. The finals were held on Sunday between the
top three teams. With the serious money being given out for this
part of the event there should have been more teams. Grand prize
for the demo team competition was $10,000, second place won $3000
and third place won $2000.
Now that`s unprecedented in martial arts competition. Doug
Grant is currently looking for more Sponsors for next year so
that the prize level can be increased again as it was this year.
Last years event only had a prize of $10,000 for first place the
rest received trophies. Anyone knowing of someone or an organization
wishing to become involved in sponsorship please contact Mike
`Kato` & Karen Berger at the address at the end of this article
and their name will be forwarded to Mr. Grant. With more sponsorship
either corporate or individual, the prizes will continue to grow
and be a benefit to all those involved.
The following is a list of the winners and their divisions
from the weekend event.
Junior Division
Under black belt Jr. Grand champion fighting 17 & under
-
Vijay Singh, Cleveland, Oh.
12 & under junior black belt fighting (boys/girls) -
Brandy Jacobs, Berea, Oh.
13 & 14 yr. old - Jason Belacic, Heartville, Oh.
15-17 yr. old Grand champion - Joe Flask, Canton, Oh
Junior Grand champion forms - Jason Orth, Erie, Pa.
Adult Division
Adult Women`s Grand champion, fighting - Jessica Prest
Adult overall Grand champion - fighting, weapons & kata
-
Corrine Messer
Adult black belt Grand champion, forms -
Rick Jacobs, Columbus, Ohio
Adult Men`s Grand champion, fighting -
Jerry Roberts, Oh. (Belt winner)
Men`s Black Belt - fighting, -
Aaron Parks, Canton, Oh. (Norris Cup)
All the competitors did an excellent job. In the adult finals
there was a tie in the forms competition with Rick Jacobs winning
the tie breaker with a spectacular Wushu form with sword and lots
of aerial techniques with beautiful quick flowing moves so typical
of Wushu. Jerry Roberts won the men`s Grand champion fight for
the third time in a row by taking an early lead and maintaining
a several point lead until the final bell.
Demo Team Competition
1st. place - $10,000 Grand Prize -
National Wushu team of Beijing, China.
Coach - Wu Bin & Eric Chun.
2nd. place - $3000 -
Tae Ryong Park Hapkido demo team - Winnipeg, Canada.
Coach - Deuk Park
3rd. place - $2000 -
National Allegheny Shotokan Karate demo team.
Coach - Bill Viola
The competition was very exciting and also very close. The
next two teams to finish all finished within .03 of a point from
the 3rd. place team. These teams included, 4th place (by .02 pt)
- Team Chat, La, Ca. - Coach Mike Chaturantabut 5th place (by
.03 pt) - Team Attitude, Fairview Park, Oh. - Coach Chris Stevens.
Also finishing close and putting in an excellent
show were the Green Dragon Team, Oakland, Ca. - Coaches Eric Lee
& Sid Campbell, Tomo Institute of Worm, Germany, Street Lethal,
Liverpool, Australia - Coach Geoff Booth & Superior Arts Demo
Team of Philadelphia, Pa.
There were many exciting shows and demonstrations put on throughout
the entire weekend by martial artists, exhibitors and body builders.
The final demonstration was held on Sunday at the conclusion of
the finals, while the scores were being totaled, when Dragon Kim
performed an incredible break. Dragon Kim cut the neck off an
unopened bottle of whiskey, with his bare hand, without moving
the bottom of the bottle. Then the presentations began. The first
presentation was to Cynthia Rothrock. She received a reproduction
of her portrait completed for the Martial Arts Gallery of Fame
by `Kato` Berger. Next was a presentation to Arnold Schwarzenegger
by `Kato` Berger for his contributions to the martial arts by
including the martial arts in his annual fitness event. Doug Grant
accepted the plaque to be presented to Chuck Norris, for his induction
into the Gallery of Fame, who couldn`t attend because of scheduling
conflicts. At this point Arnold Schwarzenegger announced that
it was Cynthia Rothrock`s birthday and invited everyone to join
them in singing Happy Birthday to Cynthia. As the awards were
passed out the winners were brought out on stage to receive their
trophies, at the conclusion Arnold was on stage to say how great
the martial arts were and that he is looking forward to next years
event which will include the martial arts.
Eric Lee & Cynthia Rothrock will be offering special edition
reproductions of their portraits in the Martial Arts Gallery of
Fame through their fan club`s. They can be contacted as follows;
Cynthia Rothrock at Rothrock, 2633 Lincoln Blvd., #103, Santa
Monica, Ca. 90405. Eric Lee at Emperor Productions , 8424 A. Santa
Monica Blvd. #810, West Hollywood, Ca. 90069. Or for information
on the Martial Arts Gallery of Fame or to give sponsor information
for next year`s event contact;
Mike `Kato` & Karen Berger at Action Portrait Studios,
13931 Fox Hollow Dr. , Novelty, Ohio 44072, 1-440-338-3409.
1998 International Wushu Kungfu Festival and Championships
On August 5-9, 1998 at Towson University located in Baltimore,
Maryland, the United States of America Wushu Kungfu Federation
will host the 1998 International Wushu Kungfu Festival and
Championship, which will include the U.S. Nationals
for National ranking, and the International Competition open to
athletes from all over the world. The Festival willa lso feature
three days of Seminars by the world`s leading masters,
a special Master`s Demonstration, a Cultural Show, and the USAWKF
Hall of Fame Awards Banquet.
The Seminars - August 5-7
Three Full day sof seminars will be offered at extremely affordable
rates. Masters offering various seminars include Pan Qing Fu,
Shouyu Liang, Dr. Tingsen Xu, Adam Hsu, Shi Yan-Ming, Ai Ping
Cheng, Yang Yang, Xiaoling Lu, Shawn Liu Xiangyang, Jian Qiang
Hu, Malee Khow, Nick Gracenin, Jimmy Wong, and Chun Man Sit. Topics
will encompass various arts and styles, including Taoist and Buddhist
Qigong, Bagua Zhang, Taijiquan for Seniors, Chen, Sun, Wu and
He style taiji, Monkey Staff, Praying Mantis, straight sword,
broadsword, 3 section cudgel, Shaolin forms, Silk Reeling and
Ditangquan, among many others.
The Champoinship - August 8-9
The International Competition will gather athletes from all
over the world to compete for International titles in traditional
kungfu, contemporary wushu, taiji and sanshou (full contact).
In all, nearly 300 divisions will be offered for children, men
and women, accommodating novices to advanced practitioners. Atheles
from the U.S.A. will be competing for National titles and rankings
in over 30 events, including traditional wushu, internal and fighting
divisions. The U.S. Nationals is the most prestigious national
competition in the country.
Master`s Demonstration & Hall of Fame Awards Banquet
August 8 will feature a spectacular Master`s Demo including
many of the seminar teachers mentioned above, as well as international
guest performers. The USAWKF will celebrate its second annual
Hall of Fame Awards, honoring recipients at a formal banquet dinner.
Everyone is welcome to attend and celebrate.
For more information, contact the USAWKF at 6315 Harford
Road, Baltimore, Maryland 21214. Tel: 410-444-6666, Fax: 410-426-5524.
Email: usawkf@usawkf.org, website at http://www.usawkf.org.
History of Chinese Martial Arts:
Sui to Tang Dynasty
By Salvatore Canzonieri, Boonton, New Jersey
SUI DYNASTY (581-618 AD).
China was reunited under the rule of the Sui dynasty (581-618).
After another prolonged period of disunity, a general from the
northwest united China and established the new dynasty of Sui.
The first Sui emperor was Yang Chien (541-604), also called Wen
Ti, a military servant who usurped the throne of the non-Chinese
Northern Chou in 581. Being a northwestern aristocrat, he married
his daughter to the son of the Northern Chou emperor. When this
son died suddenly at age 36, Yang Chien swiftly seized the throne.
A second great period of imperial unity was begun.
The brief Sui reign was a time of great activity. During the
next eight years, the Sui Emperor completed the conquest of South
China and established his capital at Changan (now Xi`an). Emperor
Wen Ti became a devout Buddhist, but also continued to exemplify
Confucian virtues. He revived the centralized administrative system
of the Han and reinstated competitive examinations for the selection
of officials. Also, he introduced a series of economic reforms,
such as reduction of the peasants' taxes, a careful census for
equitable tax collection, and restoration of the equal allocation
system used in the Northern Wei. Every taxable male received a
grant of land, part of which was returnable when he ceased to
be a taxpayer at age 60 and part of which he could pass on to
his heirs. He also revived the Han system of examinations based
on Confucian classics. The Great Wall was repaired at an enormous
cost in human life. A canal system, which later formed the Grand
Canal, was constructed to carry the rich agricultural produce
of the Yangtze delta to Loyang and the north, it linked up the
Huang, Huai, and Yangtze rivers and connected north and south
China. Chinese control was reasserted over northern Vietnam and,
to a limited degree, over the Central Asian tribes to the north
and west.
Hereditary military service was abolished and command was centralized.
Soldiers were drawn from peasant families, which provided men
an alternative to being common laborers. These men were organized
into territorial units. Weapons and large boats were confiscated
by the government to prevent their use by rebels. Martial arts
skills now became even more important for inclusion into the military
and many people worked to perfect their skills. The Book of Sui
records that the practice of Jiao Di (shuai jiao) was still greatly
enjoyed by the people. On the 15th of each lunar year, great festivals
for Jiao Di were held. Sui Emperor Wen tried to stop these grand
events because of their great expense, but was unable to do so
because they were so popular. The book Xu Gao Seng Zhuan records
that Xiang Pu (boxing) was practiced by the Monks of various temples
and the emperor ordered Monk Fa Tong to fight against a challenger
from the western country. He easily defeated him. During the reign
of the second Sui Emperor Yang Ti, the Book of Sui writes that
in the year 610 AD, a month long Jiao Di event was held in Duan
Men Jie that attracted people from all over the empire to compete.
Emperor Yang even attended incognito to watch the special skills
of the competitors. The Jiao Di tournaments continued to be a
popular yearly event and became deeply rooted into the culture
of the Chinese people. The art and sport of Jiao Di remained prestigious
among royality and high-ranking officials trained in it for the
next 300 years.
Emperor Wen Ti, having a strong interest in Buddhism, paid
to rebuild and reopen Shaolin (in actuality it was not named `Shao
Lin` until the Tang Dynasty) and gave it the name `Zhi Hu Si`
(Ascending the Hill). He also gave Shaolin extra land (almost
1,648 acres) to farm on. In order to protect this new land, their
crops, the local community, and religious treasures, the monks
at Shaolin formed a militia group, consisting of `monk-soldiers
that patrolled and guarded the land and the local people.` The
principles followed by the monastery were changed under the Emperor`s
rule. He ordered the building of two more monasteries and news
of this spread all over China. Many martial artists came to Shaolin
to obtain lodgings and work as guards. During the Sui and Tang
dynasties, the Shaolin monks worked on perfecting and elaborating
the various techniques included in their 18 Lohan Quan form. Soon,
the monks became very famous for their Pao Chuoi or Cannon Fist,
and they gave exhibitions of their martial prowess, including
other skills such as high jumping, wall scaling, and others. Stories
tell of a monk named Wen Zai, who was very large and strong and
who protected the neighboring peasants.
But, the Sui Dynasty proved to a short reign. The Sui dynasty`s
early demise was attributed to the government`s tyrannical demands
on the people, who bore the crushing burden of taxes and compulsory
labor. These resources were overstrained in the reconstruction
of the Great Wall , the completion of the Grand Canal, and in
the undertaking of other construction projects, Sui Wen Ti`s premature
death might have been caused by his ambitious son Yang Ti, whose
grandiose projects and military campaigns ultimately led to the
Sui`s downfall. Yang Ti`s overly ambitious scheme of expanding
his empire led to disastrous wars. A prolonged and costly campaign
against the kingdom of Champa in southern Manchuria and the kingdom
of Koguryo in northern Korea, however, ended in defeat. After
a series of futile expeditions, the Chinese army of over a million
was defeated and forced to flee. With its prestige seriously tarnished
and its population impoverished, the Sui dynasty disintegrated
through a combination of popular revolts, disloyalty, and assassination
soon falling to domestic rebels.
Near the end of the Sui Dynasty, without support from the Emperor,
many people left Shaolin and the society broke up. As a result,
thieves came to ransack the temple riches and they fought with
the remaining monks. The robbers burnt down a tower and monestary,
leaving only one tower intact. In 616, Emperor Yang Ti fled to
the south, abandoning the Empire. In 618, Yang Ti was assassinated
in an army coup; one of the coup leaders, Li Shih-min, installed
his father Li Yuan, duke of T`ang, as emperor, founding the T`ang
Dynasty. After about a decade, during which he was able to secure
his father`s abdication, he took the throne himself in 626 as
the emperor T`ai Tsung.
TANG DYNASTY (618-907 AD):
The T`ang dynasty era was one of strength and brilliance unprecedented
in the history of Chinese civilization. Under the Tang Dynasty,
China combined prosperity, cultural grandeur, aristocratic sophistication,
military power, and supremacy in foreign relations to achieve
an age of greatness. Every opportunity was taken to make the emperor
the dominant power of the East. The capital became a mecca for
traders, diplomats and seekers of culture from the Mediterranean
to Japan. The arts - music, dance, literature, painting, ceramics,
lacquer, metalwork - flourished in this golden age of learning.
The T`ang period marked the beginnings of China`s early technological
advancement over other civilizations in the fields of shipbuilding
and firearms development. Papermaking was brought to the T`ang
connection in the Arab world. Both reached new heights in the
succeeding dynasty of Sung.
The T`ang capital at Changan (now known as Xian) was a center
of culture and religious toleration. Foreign trade was conducted
with Central Asia and the West over the caravan routes, and merchants
from the Middle East plied their sea borne trade through the port
of Guangzhou. Under the T`ang, Chinese influence was extended
over Korea, southern Manchuria, and northern Vietnam. In the west,
by means of alliances with Central Asian tribes, the T`ang controlled
the Tarim Basin and eventually made their influence felt as far
as present-day Afghanistan.
The system of civil service examinations for recruitment of
the bureaucracy was so well refined at that time that its basic
form survived into the 20th century. The organs of the imperial
and local governments were restructured and amplified to provide
a centralized administration, and an elaborate code of administrative
and penal law was enacted.
The economic and military strength of the T`ang Empire was
founded on a system of equal land allotments made to the adult
male population. The per capita agricultural tax paid by the allotment
holders was the greatest source of government income, and the
periodic militia service required of them was the basis of T`ang
military power. Difficulties arose, however, for the government
continued to honor tax-free estates and made large grants of land
to those whom it favored. As a result of population growth, by
the 8th century individual allotment holders inherited greatly
reduced plots of land, but the annual per capita tax remained
the same. Peasants fled their allotments, thereby reducing government
income and depleting the armed forces. Frontier areas could no
longer be protected by militia forces. A system of commanderies
was established along the borders, and defense was entrusted to
non-Chinese troops and commanders.
During these times, soldiers continued to wear armor and long
weapons were still important for fighting battles. Seizing and
throwing remained as military arts for fighting against armored
foes. The spear (qiang) was the major long weapon of the Tang
troops. Many competitions were held to test spearing skills. A
long red tassle was put on the end of the spears so one could
watch the correct rotations of the spearing techniques (and to
help absorb the blood of struck enemies). Also long sticks (shuo)
were used to practice long weapon techniques. The `ge` and the
`ji` were phased out on the battlefield and the sword was used
instead. Also, sword techniques became more popular as a health
exercise and for entertaining the people. Ken Qi Wu events were
done that mixed dance and pre-arranged sword fighting forms and
Po Zhen Le events that combined battle formations with sword demonstrations.
The book `Zi Zhi Tong Jian` (643 AD) recorded that people used
play-fight with long weapons for amusement.
While Sui Emperor Yang Ti was gone, the empire`s various military
commanders found themselves in a good position to grab for power.
In 617, Li Yuan, as Duke of Tang, used his armies to invade the
Sui capital. But, he could not automatically take over the empire.
Over 200 rebel groups also existed. Little by little, he overcame
these groups, either by force or diplomacy, and by 624 , he finally
vanquished all organized resistance to his rule.
One such famous event, in 620, occurred when Li Yuan wished
to overtake one of the remaining holdouts to his rule, the King
of Zheng, Wang Shi Chong, whose troops regularly pillaged the
Luo Yang countryside and raped the women. Many people starved
and became refugees from the area. The Emperor`s son, Li Shi Min,
asked the monks of Shaolin, which was nearby to Luo Yang, to aid
him in overtaking Wang in return for preferential treatment from
the Emperor. The monk Tan Tzong, who was in charge of the monastery
fields near Loyang, led a group of monks to attack the city at
night. One by one, they overcame Wang`s guards and captured his
nephew Wang Ren Ze, leaving the city open for Li Shi Min to enter
with his army. The Loyang area, which was very close to Shaolin,
was important because about 50 miles northwest was a river area
that was used by most rulers of the area as a naval base.
Li rewarded the monks with a water powered grain roller, 100
kasayas, a large parcel of land (about 600 acres), and with positions
as generals in the Tang Empire. Special status was given to these
monk-soldiers and they were even allowed by the Emperor to have
meat and wine (because the Emperor wanted them to share the feast
he prepared them and did not know that Buddhists were prohibited
from eating meat and wine); this was okay for the Shaolin monks
because their Chan sect practiced toleration.
In 625, Emperor Li promoted Tan Tzong to `Great General Monk`.
A stone stele was soon erected to commemorate the event and lists
the names of the senior monks (Abbot Hui Yang, Shan Hu, and Chi
Tsao) and some of those that participated, such as Tan Tzong,
Pu Hi, Mong Kao, Ling Hsien, Pu Sheng, Chih Shou, Tao Kuan, Chih
Hsing, and Man Feng. Records show that these monks traveled, at
Li`s invitation, to the Tang capital, Changan, during a holiday
festival and gave exhibitions of their skills. Monk Tan Tzong
gave the emperor an exhibition of Shaolin Pao Choi (`cannon punching`).
It was during this time that Shaolin got its name, instead of
Chi Hu Su, as the Sui called it. Stories also tell that one of
these monks, Chih Shou, was well known for his skill of pressure
point striking, which was able to cause people to collapse when
struck.
Shaolin was allowed to have a training school for 500 `Monk-Soldiers`
From this point on, for many generations, the Shaolin monks were
used as soldiers for the Emperor and controlled the mountains
of the Henan region for the various Emperors in return for being
allowed to perform their Buddhist duties without interference.
Monks Zhi Zhu, Wai Jang, Seng Chung, and others were able to gain
control of the surrounding countryside under the protection of
Shaolin. Tang army generals, in their old age would often retire
to Shaolin. Under these conditions, martial arts continued to
develop at Shaolin, and were famous to the peoples of the times.
Because of its famous name, various martial arts experts came
to visit the Shaolin temple to share their knowledge. Also, the
average martial artist was not just from the military or professional
body guards/escorts but rather from more undesirable pursuits.
People from mercenary fighting groups, underground societies,
traveling performers, wanderers, criminals, smugglers, and so
on, also visited Shaolin for sanctuary. Prior to this time, the
Shaolin martial arts consisted of either the Chi Mei Gun (Eyebrow
Height Staff), farm implements, and empty handed (Shaolin Quan
during the Tang time period still consisted only of the Lohan
Quan style and its 18 techniques.). The visiting experts taught
the monks to use of the staff and soon they applied such techniques
to their Monk's Spade and common objects. Eventually, through
the influence of outsiders with military experience, other weapons
were adopted and mastered such as the spear, the dagger, the broad
sword, the straight sword, and the axe.
A monk named Szu Kung Pei developed a style called Shang Tiao
Hsia Kou Chuan, also called Fake Boxing (because the opponent
was fooled by fake out moves that appeared to strike in one direction
but instead did so in another, which consisted of high blocks
and low combinations of strikes. He devised the technique of rolling
up and deflecting a blow with one arm while simultaneously striking
with the other. This move is seen in many Northern Chinese martial
arts, especially in the fourth element form, of Hsing I, and the
fifth form of the Moslem Tan Toi.
During the end years of the first Tang Emperor's reign, his
two sons fought amongst themselves. By 626, the second son, Li
Shih-Min, murdered the first son and forced his father to abdicate,
giving him the throne (until his death in 649). During his reign,
China continued to prosper, smashing the power of the nomadic
tribes. Also during these times, a Buddhist temple, later affiliated
with Shaolin Chan sect, Lin Quan Yuan, was built in the south
of China near Pu Tian County in Fujian Province.
The early T`ang rulers, including the Empress Wu (reigned 683-705),
a former imperial concubine, were generally able monarchs, and
they were able to continue to cultivate China`s prosperity. By
the time that Emperor Li Shi Min died, the court ministers had
succeeded in becoming very influential and conspired to undermine
imperial rule and direct it to themselves. The next emperor, Kao-Tsung,
had little effect against these ministers. In 655, he promoted
one of his concubines, Wu, to Empress. By 660, the emperor was
ill, and Wu led the government instead of him, after disposing
any opponents. Emperor Kao lost interest in Buddhism, and turned
solely to Taoism, while she supported both. She was able to garner
much support outside of the ministry, especially among the Buddhist-Taoist
clergy. All rebellions against her failed. By 690, she wiped out
the Tang dynasty Li clan and took the throne as a `Holy and Divine
Emperor` of a new Chou dynasty. She developed Lou Yang as an eastern
capital. Finally, in 705 court officials deposed her and restored
the Tang Dynasty.
In 702, the Tang Dynasty had developed a system to confer titles
on eminent martial artists by means of a test, which did much
to encourage the promotion of the martial arts among the people.
Martial competitions were held to choose warriors and officers
were promoted in a similar fashion. Imperial troops were able
to increase the empire`s borders greatly and there was a great
need for skilled warriors. Also, local warlords and landlords
needed skilled martial artists to help protect the provinces in
which they ruled. Body guards and security forces were needed
to travel along the silk routes (were they interacted with people
from many cultures and exchanged their martial arts knowledge
with them, especially Moslems, who were very good at their martial
arts).
The period saw another flowering of the Chinese martial arts,
due to a strong emphasis on war and power throughout the empire.
From 712 to 756 AD, Hard Chi Gung exhibitions became popular throughout
the empire, such as feats of physical strength and skill, acrobatics,
and withstanding the blows of weapons. Lion Dances began as well.
Also, Jiao Li continued to be popular as in the past dynasties
and during this time it was not only taught in the palaces, but
became a professional occupation with teachers giving instruction
to civilians. The sword had became less important on the battle
field and now had became a principle weapon for the common person.
Sword exhibitions continued to remain popular until the end of
the Tang Dynasty.
Other martial arts were mentioned in records that also date
from the Tang Dynasty:
The T`ang dynasty did heavy recruiting of soldiers from the
Moslem communities in the western part of China. The Moslem Chinese
in the west practiced their own types of martial arts that over
time had mixed with Chinese folk and military martial arts. One
such style was called Jia Zi Quan (frame boxing) and was composed
of a Da Jia Quan (large frame boxing that had fully extended,
long fist type movements, and Xiao Jia Quan (small frame boxing)
that had quick, compact, short fist type movements. According
to the Cha Family Boxing Chronicles, Jia Zi Quan was a popular
and very old Northern Chinese fighting style, originating around
the same time as Shaolin was developing. The style is based on
quick, agile movements interspersed with sudden stops and steady
still stances, performers are said to be `now moving like the
wind, now standing nailed to the ground.`
Sometime during the Tang period, the Emperor sent a military
crusade on an expedition to eastern China, to fight off foreign
invaders. A wounded General, Hua Zong Qi, was left to recuperate
from his severe wounds in a small village in Guan Xian county,
Shantung Province. In appreciation for his care, General Hua taught
the people his Jia Zi Quan. Due to his great wu shu skills and
earnest teaching methods, he soon had such a large number of students
that he invited his senior fellow apprentice Cha Yuan Yi to come
help him teach. Hua specialized in Da Jia Zi and Cha specialized
in Xiao Jia Zi. After Hua and Cha died, their followers renamed
the style in their honor; Xiao Jia became Chan Quan and Da Jia
became Hua Quan. Both of these were still considered as one true
style with people learning both aspects, sometimes called Hua-Cha
Quan. The Hua Quan aspect had four routines, with three of them
being long forms with varied techniques. The Cha Quan aspect had
ten routines, of which the first four are most generally known.
The forms were passed down mostly amongst the Moslem Chinese communities
and were closely guarded.
The Cha Quan`s 10 routines were of varying lengths and complexity.
The general characteristics of the Cha-Hua style are that its
movements and techniques are graceful, easy, clear, continuous,
and rhythmic in execution. Strength and force is generated abruptly
and there is economical use of energy. The boxing method stresses
using both the hands and feet at the same time when executing
fighting movements. Continuous attacks are employed, combined
with various tricky moves to evade and deceive the opponent, in
order to quickly overcome the enemy.
The names of the ten forms are:
1.Mu Zi (Mother and Son)
2.Xing Shou (Parallel Hand Movement)
3.Fei Jiao (Flying Foot)
4.Sun Bin (name of famous General Sun Bin)
5.Quan Dong (Eastern Gate)
6.Mai Fu (Ambush Tiger)
7.Mei Fa (Plum Flower)
8.Lian Wuan (Continuous)
9.Long Bai Wai (Shake Dragon`s Tail)
10.Chuan Quan (Vertical Fist)
Many of the Cha routines are used today in various Northern
long fist schools, especially the 4th Routine and 5 Routine. Both
versions have made a huge influence on latter day Shaolin Quan
and the modern Chang Quan (long fist) practiced in China today,
which has chosen to use many of the techniques from the Hua-Cha
style.
Another style developed during the Tang dynasty that was also
called the Hua style, but the Hua character meant `China` as in
Zhong Hua. During the Kai Uan reign of the Tang (713-741), a knight
from Mount Hua named Cai Mao killed an enemy of his who was a
member of the noble family of Chang`an. He went to hide in Ren
Cheng, which is now called Jin Ing in Shantung province. Cai was
a skilled martial artists in both fist and sword fighting. He
passed on his art to his descendants. (400 years later, during
the Sung Dynasty, Cai Tai and Cai Gang developed the style to
look like its present form and it was again perfected during the
Ching Dynasty by Cai Wan Zhi.)
Mentions are made of styles that people called Mien Chuan (Cotton
boxing) and Jou Chuan (Soft boxing). Martial arts flowered among
the Taoists. As with the general public, the art of Jiao Li (present
day Shuai Jiao) was greatly enjoyed and it became a popular Taoist
practice, such that it was sometimes called `Taoist Wrestling`.
Another martial art that Taoists practiced was called Feng Shou
Quan Shu (`Hand of the Wind`). This was a self defense method
that used a `Wave Hands Like Clouds` type of technique.
A martial artist known as Xu Xin-Ping (or Xu Xhuan Ping) wrote
about an art called Tai Chi Kung. Xu was from southern China,
from the Zi Yang Mountain, in Hui Zhou district of the Anhui Province.
He had learned the art from someone named Yu Huan-Zi (or Yu Fan
Zi), who taught Xu a form called San Hsi Chi (`three generations
and seven`), also called the `37 Patterns of Tai Chi`. It was
said to be similar to a form of fourteen postures from another
style practiced in Anhui Province also called `Tai Chi`s `Nine
Little Heavens`, which arose more than a century later during
the Later Liang Dynasty (907-923 AD) and was developed by Hen
Kon Yu. The form was long, flowing, and continuous and, because
of its length, was thus also called Chang Quan or Long Fist. The
description of these movements seem similar to those known as
the Thirteen Postures in modern day Tai Chi Chuan. Some of these
movements were named `Shoot snow goose with a bow`, `ajust pan
posture`, `The sparrow lifts its tail`, `flip fingers`, `Tan Mountain
is angry`, `Grind the mill`, `Hang on the tree and kick`. The
names of other movements and their execution are very similar
to those in the present day Yang Tai Chi Quan style, namely: high
pat on horse, grasp bird`s tail, step up and ride tiger, wave
hands like clouds, play the pipa, step forward parry and punch,
single whip, repulse monkey, brush knee and twist step, fair lady
works the shuttles, and so on.
The form was practiced one posture at a time until all 37 were
learned; the form could be done with any of the 37 movements in
no particular order. The footwork was designed according to the
Five Elements theory and the arm work according to the Eight Trigrams
or Ba Qua theory, thus all changes of movement were done according
to the I Ching`s Yin-Yang theory. Xu taught Tai Chi Kung to members
of the Song family. (Song Yuan-Qiao of the later Ming Dynasty
was recorded as being a 14th generation successor of Xu.)
Later in Hubei Province, during the late Tang Dynasty, someone
named Li Bao Zi (or Li Tao Tse or Li Dao Shan) practiced a style
also known as Tai Chi Chuan Long Fist. Li was called the Master
of Wu Tang. He called his style Hsien Tien Chuan (`Pre-Heavenly
Fist`), which means the stage before the universe was created.
This art was similar to that of the 37 Patterns/San Hsi Chi, although
how he was influenced by an art from Anhui Province that was almost
a century older is unknown. He taught his art to someone named
Yu Lieu Chu (or Yu Lian Zhou), Yu Yi Cheng, Yu Qing Hui, and others
of the Yu family. The Yu family carried on Li`s Pre-Heaven Tai
Chi Chuan Long Fist from generation to generation.
Also, there was one more style that was called `tai chi` as
well. It was created by someone named Yan Li Heng, who taught
it to Wu Jing Zi (or Hu Chin Tze). Wu called the art Hu Tien Fa
(`Post-Heavenly Method`), which means the stage after the universe
was created. Wu taught the art to Song Zhong Shu. The style is
composed of seventeen postures, which emphasize the use of various
elbow movements. This style too has postures whose names and executions
as similar to those of the Chen and Yang Tai Chi Chuan styles'
Four Directions, namely: `ward-off`, `roll back`, `press`, and
`push`, and Four Corners, namely: `pull`, `split`, `elbow`, and
`shoulder strike`. The Four Directions and the Four Corners together
form the Eight Changes of the Ba Qua (Eight Trigrams). In the
movements of the Four Directions, energy follows direction (like
a circle in a square). The movements consist of backwards moving
steps. In the movements of the Four Corners, direction follows
energy (like a square within a circle). The movements consist
of forward moving steps.
The An Lu-shan Rebellion :
Most of the T`ang Dynasty`s accomplishments were attained during
the first century of the dynasty`s rule, through the early part
of Emperor Hsuan Tsung`s long reign from 712 to 756. He did much
to increase the greatness of the empire by repairing many government
problems. However, late in his reign he became enamored of the
courtesan Yang Kuei-fei (died 756), a woman much younger than
he, and neglected government affairs to indulge in his love of
art and study. This led to the rise of viceroys, commanders responsible
for military and civil affairs in the regions. Yang was allowed
to place her friends and relatives in important positions in the
government. One of Yang`s favorites was the able Turkish general
An Lu-shan, who quarreled with Yang`s brother over control of
the government, precipitating a revolt in 755. An Lu-shan was
a powerful viceroy commanding the northwest border area. He had
both connections at the imperial court and hidden imperial ambitions.
He commanded an army of 160,000 Tang troops and used this power
to seize both capitals, Lo Yang and Chang An.
The emperor fled the capital with an ill-equipped army. These
troops soon rebelled and forced the emperor to abdicate in favor
of his son. The new emperor raised a new army to fight the rebels.
An Lu-shan was assassinated in 757, but the war dragged on until
peace was not restored in 763, and then only by means of alliances
that the T`ang formed with Central Asian tribes, and with help
from Turkish nomads and Arab soldiers. Afterward, the Chinese
Empire virtually disintegrated once again. After the rebellion
of An Lu-shan, the central government was never again able to
control the military commanderies on the frontiers. The provinces
remained under the control of various regional commanders. Some
commanderies became hereditary kingdoms and regularly withheld
tax returns from the central government. The commandery system
spread to other areas of China proper, and by the 9th century
the area effectively under central government control was limited
to Shaanxi (Shensi) Province. The dynasty continued to linger
on for another century, but the T`ang empire never fully recovered
the central authority, prosperity, and peace of its first century.
Emperors ruling from 780 to 820 had to do so through the eunuchs
and servants working at the palace. The next two emperors were
murdered by the eunuchs, ensuring the instability of the government.
From 841-845, great religious persecutions occurred. Emperor
Wu-Tsung, who consumed quantities of Taoist `imortality` elixirs
and was considered as half-insane, attacked Buddhism. Confucian
court officials convinced the government leaders and the Tang
Emperor that much tax money was being lost to the many thousands
of temples all over China. It was felt that people opened temples
just to avoid paying taxes. Thus, it was ordered that the temples
be burned down and what followed was hundreds of thousands of
temples being closed down and many religions attacked, some being
completely driven out. Buddhism suffered greatly, as the wealth
of the monasteries was sacked and the shrines destroyed. Various
sects of Buddhism were destroyed except for the Chan sect, because
it didn`t rely on libraries and temples for its sufficiency, and
the Pure Land sect, because it was too popular among the people.
Shaolin was allowed to remain open, because of its help in beginning
the Tang Empire back in 620. Many people sought refuge in Shaolin,
and it was able to benefit from the many Taoists and other faiths
that went there and shared their ideas, including martial artists
from all walks of life. But even so, over time Shaolin lost most
of its population and little was heard from Shaolin during the
last decades of the Tang Dynasty. Much of the legendary status
of Shaolin faded after the latter Tang period.
The next Tang emperor, reversed Wu Tsung`s decision and efforts
were made by many monks to go to India and bring back copies of
the sutras (The novel `Journey to the West` is a fictionalized
account of one such trip). The invention of printing and improvements
in paper making led to the printing of a whole set of Buddhist
sutras (discourses of the Buddha) by 868. By the beginning of
the 11th century all of the Confucian classics and the Taoist
canon had been printed. Between 841and 907, books such as `Jioa
Li Ji` and `Jiao Di Fu`, by Zhou Jian, describe how schools opened
for the teaching of Xiang Pu, which was a mixture of Jiao Di (Shuai
Jiao) and Quan Fa (boxing). Even the Emperor Zhuang Zong competed
in Jiao Di, losing against Li Cun Xian.
Between 874 and 878, a Buddhist temple was built in the south,
by the monks Guo Jiao and Zhuo Jian. It was named Zhen Guo Dong
Chan Si (Temple of Eastern Contemplation and Establishing Tranquillity
in the Country). Over time, the name was simplified to Dong Si.
It was located in the Quan Zhou region, about two kilometers from
Lake Dong Hu, near the central city. It was not a Chan sect temple,
but of the Tian Tai (`Heaven`s Throne`) sect. But because the
temple was named Dong Chan, they associated it with Shaolin and
eventually the name stuck, after the 15th century. Because it
was made of dry wood, the temple burned down four times.
Another serious problem of the last century of T`ang was the
rise of great landlords who were exempt from taxation. Unable
to pay the exorbitant taxes collected twice a year after the An
Lu-shan rebellion, peasants would place themselves under the protection
of a landlord or become bandits. Peasant uprisings, beginning
with the revolt under the leadership of Huang Ch`ao in the 870s,
left much of central China in ruins. In 881 Huang Ch`ao`s rebels,
now numbering over 600,000 people, destroyed the capital, forcing
the imperial court to move east to Lo Yang. Many noble people
left China for Japan at this time. It is said that some brought
with them their knowledge of martial arts and taught it to a few
people in Japan. In Korea, some Chinese monks with martial arts
knowledge entered temples there during the great religious persecutions
and taught martial arts (thus, the origin of Tang Soo Do). Finally,
in after losing battle to imperial troops, he committed suicide
in 884.
Another rebel leader, Chu Wen, founded a new dynasty, called
Later Liang, at Kaifeng in Henan Province in 907, but he was unable
to unify all China under his rule. This second period of disunity
lasted only half a century. Once again, however, China was divided
between north and south, with five dynasties in the north and
ten kingdoms in the south.
Continued on next issue...
Salvatore Canzonieri is a free-lance artist & writer
for various publications (Wushu Kungfu, Han Wei's Wushu, Seconds,
EXIT, and others), with experience in Wu Style Taiji, Southern
Shaolin, Northern Shaolin, Qigong and various other Traditional
Chinese Kungfu styles.
Wu Song Breaks Manacles
7. Cross Palms in Manacles
Movements: Open hooked hands into palms. With arms straightened,
swing both palms downward and upward in curves to the front at
shoulder level. Twist both wrists to straighten palms up and cross
them with right palm outside and left palm inside, fingertips
pointing upward, and elbows bent (Fig 15).
Points to remember: The same as those of Exercise 5
8. Thrust Elbows Sideways
Movements:
1. Rotate right forearm externally so that right palm faces
upward. At the same time, rotate left forearm internally so that
left palm faces downward. Now wrists are crossed with one upon
the other. Right palm, using right wrist as the axis, describes
a circle downward, rightward, upward, and leftward, whereas left
palm, using left wrist as the axis, describes a circle upward,
leftward, downward and rightward, and after finishing a full circle
both palms return to their starting position, but with right palm
facing downward on top and left palm facing upward below. Turn
right palm into fist, move it together with left palm horizontally
to the front of th eright side of chest, and thrust right elbow
sideways. Look stright ahead to the right. (Fig 16)
2. Open right fist into palm and move it back to the front
together with left palm; left palm, using left wrist as the axis,
describes a circle downward, leftward, upward, and rightward,
whereas righ tpalm, using right wrist as the axis, describes a
circle upward, rightward, downward and leftward, and after finishing
a full circle, both hands return to their starting position, but
with left palm facing downward on top and righ tpalm facing upward
below. Turn left palm into fist, move it together with right palm
horizontally to the front of the left side of chest, and thrust
left elbow sideways. Look straight ahead to the left. (Fig 17)
Points to remember:
1. While describing circles with palms, keep both wrists close
together and relax arm muscles to facilitate the turning of wrist
joints.
2. Elbows must be raised to shoulder level for sideways thrusts
and fists clenched tight with knuckles facing downward.
9. Kick Leftward and Rightward
Movements:
1. Move right palm and left fist horizontally from the left
side of chest to the front; meanwhile, right palm, using right
wrist as the axis, describes a circle downward, rightward, upward,
and leftward, whereas left fist, using left wrist as the axis,
describes a circle upward, leftware, downward, and rightward.
After finishing a full circle, right palm with its back facing
upward is on top of left fist. Turn right palm into fist with
knuckles facingupward; at the same time, bend left leg at knee
into a half squat with left heel raised. While bending left leg,
take a forward step to the left with right foot and place right
thigh upon left thigh. (Fig 18)
2. Straighten up both legs and kick left foot obliquely leftward
with force focused on its outer side, sole turned downward and
toes pointing to the front of body. Look at left foot. (Fig 19
front view and side view).
3. Bend right leg at knee into a half squat with right heel
raised. While bending right leg, take a forward step to the right
with left foot and place left thigh upon right thigh. At the same
time, left fist, using left wrist as the axis, describs a circle
downward, leftward, upward, and rightward, whereas right fist,
using right wrist as the axis, describes a circle upward, rightward,
downward, and leftward. After finishing a full circle, left fist
is on top with its palm side facing downward and right fist is
below with its palm side facing upward. Look straight ahead to
the right (Fig 20)
4. Strighten up both legs and kick right foot obliquely rightward
with force forcused on its outer side, sole turned downward and
toes pointing to the front of body. Look at right foot (Fig 21)
Points to remembers:
Kick foot sideways with force and strightened leg. The foot
must go above waist level. Keep the supporting foot firm on ground.
The turning of fists around wrists should be coordinated with
the forward steps to the left and right.
10. Strike with Forwarm in Bow Step
Movements:
Take a step from the due south to the due west with right foot.
At the same time, turn toes of left foot inward, bend right leg
at knee with left leg straightened to form a right bow step; open
left fist to hold right wrist; while taking a step westward with
right foot, rotate right forearm internaly, and, with force focused
on the upper part of right forearm, thrust it horizontally westward
with thumb side of fist facing downward and palm side westward;
meanwhile, turn torso leftward and look straight ahead to the
southwest (Fig 22)
Points to remembers:
The forearm thrust should be delivered with force with arms
rounded to form a semi-circle. Right fist should be on the same
level as right ear. Right thigh should be level and left leg stretched.
Don`t lift right heel and keep left sole flat on ground.
(Continued on next issue...) Fig
15Fig 16Fig 17Fig
18Fig 19aFig 19bFig
20Fig 21Fig 22
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Hall of Fame Induction Masters Demonstration Beautiful Trophies
Championship Belts Group Chinese Lion Dance Performance
For the first time in Cleveland's
40 years history: Chinese Dragon Dance Performance!
Competitors: Pre-Registration: $30/first division w $5/additional
At the Door: $40/first division w $5/additional
Spectators: $10/Adult w $5/Child under
12y.o.
Huang Chien-Liang, Nick Gracenin, Tony Brown, Salvatore Canzonieri,
Fuchen Yang, Benny Meng, Shu-ton Tony Yang,
Kwok W. Chu, Dou Wan Chun, Gary Mason, Richard
Fike, Richard Lengyel, Gary Yano, Andy Sokol, Jose Johnson, John
Ervin Jr.,
A.J. Perry, Mark Pringle, Jeff Naaryars, Manuel
Taningco, Geno Belfiore, Bob Bennett, Aamir Bilal, T`shaka Brown,
Claudia Koerner,
Russ Burr, George Anderson, David Schenk, Buddy
Wu, Edward Williams, Will Duncan, Dwayne Harrell, Jim Holtz,
Kathy Cowles,
Hu Wei-Yue, Bruce Ledger, Guang Liang, Jim Maheliva,
Greg Mayo III, John Meese, David Parks, Steve Warner, Bob Morris,
Tony Marcial, Leaston Chanse IV, D`wayne Davis, Eric Brouman,
John Cheese, David Bohm, Eric Vaessen, Gorog Lazlo, Mike Kitis,
and many others.
Sponsored by:
Subway, Samson`s Powerhouse, Action
Portrait Studios, Pacific Rim Publishing,
MetroHealth Medical Center, The
Future of Magic, Rajic Development, Inc, Wu Jia Quan Shu,
Promote-U-Graphics, Imperial Travel
Services, and Continental Airlines
3216 Payne Avenue w Cleveland
Ohio 44114
Tel: 216-579-9707
For Travel Arrangements Call ITS, 1-800-633-ASIA
(5% discount)
Self-Defense Methods for Women
Series IV: Elbow Butting and Arm Wrestling
Based on the previous three series, this series of exercises
have more variations and are highly effective in self-defense.
Exercise 1
Reach out right arm in front of chest and rapidly bend elbow
to butt backward with fist-palm facing upward. Left arm is also
bent and moved to front of chest, with fist-palm facing outward.
Simultaneously turn torso to the right and look backward right.
When torso turning and elbow butting are made, slightly bend knees
to lower body with center of gravity inthe middle (Fig 30).
Essentials: Butting should be quick, fierce, explosive and
completed in a single movement.
Exercise 2
Straighten right arm to backward right, change first into palm
and make a counter-clockwise circle (twining) movement with forearm
(moveing backward, outward, and then inward). As twining is finished,
turn back torso and withdraw right arm to press down rightpalm
in front of body, with left knee slightly bent, right knee straightened,
forming a left `bow step.` Pull left arm back beside wasit, elbow
still bent and fist-palm facing upward. Look at right palm (Fig
31).
Essentials: The circle movement should be numble and dexterous,
round and smooth. Palm pressing must be quick and coordinated
with turning of body. Torso leads slightly forward to enforce
palm pressing.
Exercise 3
Turn torso to the right and move left fist downward, forward,
and then upward over head, fist changing into palmwith wrist straightened.
Simultaneously raise pressing right arm to left armpit. Pivot
on both heels and make a 45 degree turn to the right, with right
knee slightly bent and left knee straightened, forming a right
`bow step`. Turn head to the right (Fig 32) (Be
prepared to hit at assaulter`s hindbrain if the series is practiced
by two person)
Essentials: Turn torso and raise left fist resolutely and swiftly.
Movements must be coordinated and center of gravity is kept stable.
Exercise 4
With above movement still in motion, quickly turn torso to
the left with waist as an axis. Simultaneously further bend right
knee to lower body and cut left palm down obliquely to the left
and hit with edge of palm. Right palm goes up to head level. Look
at left palm (Fig 33)
Essentials: Palm cutting must be forceful and strenghtened
by lowering of body.
Exercise 5
Pull up left arm and reach it out in front of chest. Bend elbow
rapidly to butt backward with palm changed into fist and fist-palm
facing upward. Right arm is also bent andmoved to front of chest,
with fist-palm facing outward. Simultaneously turn torso to the
left and look backward left. At the same time when torso turning
and elbow butting are made, slightly bend knees to lower body
with center of gravity in the middle (Fig 34).
Essentials: The swift change from Exercise 4 to Exercise 5
is effected with help of a slight turn of body 45 degrees to the
right providing on both feet. This would make torso turning effective
and backward butting forceful.
Exercise 6
Straighten left arm to backward left, change fist into palm
and make a clockwise circle (twining) movement with forcearm (moving
backward, outward, and then inward). As twining is finished, turn
back torso and withdraw left arm to press down left palm in front
of body, with right knee slightly bent, left knee strightened,
forming a right
`bow step` Pull right arm back besides waist, elbow still
bent and fist-palm facing upward. Look at left palm (Fig 35)
Essentials: The circle movement should be nimble and dexterous,
round and smooth. Palm pressing must be quick and coordinated
with turning of torso. Torso leans slightly forward to enforce
palm pressing.
Exercise 7
Turn torso to the left and move right fist downward, forward
and then upward over head, fist changing into palm withwrist straightened.
Simultaneously raise pressing left arm to right armpit. Pivot
on heels and make a 45 degree turn to the elft, with left knee
slightly bent and right knee strightened, forming a left `bow
step`. Turn head to the left (Fig 36) (Be prepared to hit at assaulter`s
hindbrain if the series is practied by two persons.)
Essentials: Turn torso and raise righ tfist resolutely and
swiftly. Movements must be coordinated and center of gravity is
kept stable.
Exercise 8
With above movement still in motion, quickly turn torso to
the right with waist as an axis. Simultaneously further bend left
knee to lower body and cut right palm down obliquely to the right
and hit with edge of palm. Left palm goes up to head level. Look
at right palm (Fig 37)
Essentials: Palm cutting must be forceful and strenghtened
by lowering of body.
Stop
Slightly draw back left leg and restore to frontal position
of Preparatory Form 2 (Fig 38). Because of the relative complexity
of this exercise, repeated practice is necessary before it can
be effectively applied in an actual situation. Fig
30Fig 31Fig 32Fig
33Fig 34Fig 35Fig
36Fig 37Fig 38
1997 Wu Tang Open Invitational Traditional / Wushu
Chinese Martial Arts Tournament of Canton
On November 22, 1997, the first `Open Invitational Traditional/Wushu
Chinese Martial Arts Tournament` of Canton was held to honor the
memory of the late Grandmaster Liu Yung-Chiao. Grandmaster Liu
was born in 1909 in Cang County, Hebei Province, China. At the
age of 5, due to health problems, he began studying martial arts
with his father`s head bodyguard. His health improved and in 1916
the famous Ba Ji Quan/Pi Qua Zhang Grandmaster Li Shu-Wen was
hired to continue his training. He became the last Disciple of
Grandmaster Li and spent many years training and traveling with
him. During his travels, he met and trained with other notable
martial artists and learned Kuen Wu sword, Yang`s Taijiquan, 6
Harmony Praying Mantis, and Yin Fu lineage Baguazhang. Before
he died in 1992, he was acknowledged by many as the foremost expert
in the world in the styles of Ba Ji / Pi Qua and Yin Fu Bagua.
This event was sponsored by the Wu Tang Martial Arts Association
of Ohio and was hosted by Sifu Yang Shu-Ton.
Sifu Yang Shu-Ton began studying Praying Mantis Kung Fu with
his uncle at the age of 6. During his teens, his skills were further
refined by Grandmaster Su Yu-Chang. He was introduced to and then
became a Disciple of Grandmaster Liu. His major styles of expertise
include Ba Ji Chuan, Pi Qua Zhang, Baguazhang (Yin Fu style),
Mi Tsong Chuan (Lost Track), Liu He Tang Lang (6 Harmony Praying
Mantis), Ba Bo Tang Lang (8 Step Praying Mantis), Qi Xing Tang
Lang (7 Star Praying Mantis), Mei Hua Tang Lang (Plum Blossom
Flower Praying Mantis), Mei Men Tang Lang (Tight Door Praying
Mantis) and various Chinese Martial Arts weapons. His minor styles
include older versions of Chen`s and Yang`s styles of Taijiquan
and Hsing I.
Before the festivities started, a special presentation of a
Coach`s Certificate was made by Sifu Yang to his three Senior
Disciples, John Cheese, James Finley, and David Schenk. Each has
studied with Sifu Yang for over 15 years.
The day then began with Lion Dances performed by Sifu Jeff
Naayers` Wah Lum Temple team from Columbus, Ohio and by Sifu Henry
Chung`s team from Midland, Michigan. Next came the Master`s Demonstration,
which featured a variety of styles and forms. Notable were Sifu
Nick Gracenin of Heritage, Pennsylvania performing a Drunken Boxing
form and Sifu Nick Scrima who came in from Clearwater, Florida,
and Ling I-Ming who came from Shandong Province in Mainland, China.
The tournament itself was split into Northern and Southern
Styles, Internal and External Styles, Traditional and Contemporary
Wushu, and adult and youth categories. Three hundred competitors
representing schools from Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, New York,
and New Jersey competed in over 100 divisions.
After the forms and weapons competitions,
Light Contact Sparring and Taiji Push Hands events began. The
final highlight of the day was the Team Competition. Five teams,
vying for the Six-Foot First Place trophy, had 15 minutes to show
their stuff. A team needed to have at least 3 members to compete.
They were required to play 5 forms, consisting of one barehand
form, one short weapon form and one long weapon form. The other
two forms were up to the discretion of the individual team. First
place went to Sifu Nice Gracenin`s Wushu team, followed by Sifu
Jeff Naayers` Wah Lum Temple, Sifu Dave Schenk`s Center For Body-Mind
Harmony, Sifu Ma Long`s team from Wu Tang (New York), and Sifu
John Chen`s team from Philadelphia.
Special guests whom we would like to thank for their assistance
include: Sifu Wang Shi-Ming (one of Grandmaster Liu`s Senior Disciples),
Sifu Ma Long (Head of Wu Tang, New York), Sifu Nick Gracenin,
Sifu Nick Scrima, Grandmaster Brendan Lai, SIfu Shawn Liu, Sifu
Hu Wei-Yue, Sifu Jeff Naayers, Sifu Henry Chung, Sifu John Ervin,
Sifu Richard Tolson, and all of the other Masters, willing disciples,
students, friends, and volunteers, without whose help this tournament
would not have been possible.
The 1998 tournamnet has already being planned. This expanded
event is being opened up to include ALL styles of Martial Arts,
not just Chinese. Additionally, the Chinese arts of Shuai Chiao
(Chinese Wrestling) and San Shou (Full Contact Chinese Kick-Boxing)
will be included.
The tentative schedule of events is: Friday, October 23 to
host 4 one hour seminars. Saturday, October 24 to have External
styles, preliminary San Shou and Light Contact events. Sunday,
October 25, 1998 to have Internal styles, finals of San Shou and
Light Contact, Push Hands.
For more information, please contact David Schenk, 330-633-1914;
Dave Parks at 330=874-2695; Sifu Shu-Ton (Tony) Yang at 330-493-8023;
Fax: 330-874-4270. You can also check the website for update information
at http://www.bodymindharmony.com
or email dpparks@juno.com.
NewsBits...
Upcoming events for 1998 organized by A Taste of China
(Tentative Dates)
April 18 to 25 - Spring Sword Seminar Weekend
May 9, 16 - Judges Training, Internal Styles and second levels.
June 30 - Teachers Conference
July 1-3 - Taiji for Health, Self Defense, and Art: Seminars
by various teachers
July 4-5 - USA All Taijiquan Championships
July 6-11 - Special Event: Master Yang Zhen-duo, Traditional
Yang Family Style
October 9-11 - Autumn Qigong Retreat
For more information on any of the above scheduled events,
please contact Pat Rice, Director of A Taste of China at
111 Shirley Street, WInchester, VA 22601, Tel/Fax: 540-667-7595,
email: atocrice@mnsinc.com
In April and May, Sifu Jon Funk will be conducting some
northern (seven star) praying mantis worshops. The first one will
be in Cleveland OH on Sunday April 26th, 1998 as
a part of the Great Lake Kung Fu Championships. The second
will be, Peoria IL May 16 17, 1998. Anyone wishing more details
should e-mail him at jfunk@smartt.com
or check his website at http://www.mantiskungfu.com,
or contact Sifu John Ervin Jr. at 216-341-1515 for the
workshop in Cleveland, Ohio.
Presenting the First Annual
WING CHUN FRIENDSHIP SEMINAR! Featuring: Ray Van Raamsdonk
(Wang Kiu), Rene Ritchie (Yuen Kay San and noted author), Marty
Goldberg (William Cheung). Two eight hour days!! For the first
time ever, instructors from three completely different lineages
and styles of wing chun will present a comparison of the key differences
between their systems in hopes of improving understanding and
tolerance between all. You will be taught ideas and techniques
NOT normally taught to people outside of the lineage and will
appreciate the differences, friendliness and willingness to share
by the seminar hosts. ALL questions will be answered! This seminar
is sure to teach you new things that will enhance your own training
and understanding.
Date: May 16th and 17th, location:University of Victoria,
Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Contact: Ray Van Raamdonk
H:(250) 380-3018, W:(250) 387-8035. E-mail: ray.van.raamsdonk@gems5.gov.bc.ca.
Cost: Pre-registration: $120 for two days, $65 for one. At the
door: $160 for two days, $75 for one.
This seminar is a charity event! The money will be going towards
helping Ray with his wife's medical bills from the cancer treatments
as well as paying the costs of holding it of course.
Interested in Shaolin Do taught by Grandmaster Sin Kwang The?
Looking for a school in your area? Check out the links section.
Historic photo database is on-line. On-Line shaolin form manual
available for Shaolin students. http://www.geocities.com/pentagon/4519/shao-lin.html
April 26, 1998, 18th Annual Sandusky Open Karate Tournament,
starts at 12pm at Sandusky YMCA, 2101 West Perkins Avneue, Sandusky,
Ohio. Open to all styles, for more information, contact Stan
Hart at 419-747-9706 or 1-800-583-1286.
1998 Taiji Legacy and Kungfu Championships, an International
and USA Chin Woo Open Martial Arts Competition. This event is
organized by the USA Chin Woo Federation and sanctioned by the
USAWKF. The Taiji Legacy will be unique in its own, gathering
all styles of taiji from all parts of the world, making it a
spectacular event. An 8 lion dance demonstration will be displayed
at the opening of the tournament. A demonstration by nationally
and internationally distinguished masters will be held in the
evening of the first day of competitions. Hosted in the beautiful
city of Dallas, Texas, the Taiji Legacy will be held in the spacious
Plano Centre, conveniently located approximately 5 minutes from
the tournament hotel. We aim not only to make your visit to Dallas
pleasant and memorable, but also to present you an immensely
challenging competition that you would enjoy. Hope to see you
here! Jimmy Wong, Tournament Director, President, USA Chin Woo
Federation, http://www.chinwoo.com
Everyone
is welcomed to participate the 14th Annual Tai Chi Picnic
on Sunday, May 17, 1998 from 10am to 2pm at Huntington
Beach Park located at 28600 Lake Road, Bay Village, Ohio.
This is a FREE event gathering, demonstrations and instruction
will be offered oh Hatha Yoga, Tai Chi Chuan, Chi Kung, Karate
and Kung Fu. Pack a lunch, bring a blanket for Yoga and spend
a day with area practitioners at beautiful Huntington Beach. For
more information, please call 216-226-7914.
Park`s Judo and Karate School presents the 1998 Taekwando-Kungfu-Karate
Championship on Saturday, May 2, 1998 at Rootstown,
Ohio. Open to all styles, the event will be held at Rootstown
Senior High School Gym located at 4190 State Route 44, Rootstown,
OH 44272. For more information, please contact Park`s Judo and
Karate School at 330-666-4483.
Here's some info about the lateswsw seminars and classes at
Natural Chinese Martial Arts - 581 6th Ave, NY, NY 10011 (btwn
16th & 17th St), Tel: 212-929-4969. The seminars and
classes will be taught by GM David Chih Young Lin (45 years
experience). Saturdays 9am to 12 pm (forms, concepts, history,
and methods). Saturdays 1pm to 3 pm (Self defense applications)
May 16 - Ba Ji (Master Fan'Chih Hsiao's 46 move set)
May 30 - Cha Quan (4th Routine - real Moslem version)
June 13 - SanTsai Jien (Three Treasure Straight Sword set)
June 27 - Sun Ping (96 Movement Set)
Also Ongoing Workshops in: Women's Seld Defense - Tuesdays
7-9pm, Sundays 10am-12pm. BODY GUARD TRAINING - Wednedays 7-9pm,
Saturdays 1-3pm. (Chinese Emperor's Bodyguard style and Taiwanese
Presidential Elite Guard style.)
SPECIAL EVENT:
July 11-19. Top level Martial Artists from Taiwan visit NYC.
Hosting demonstration of top level instructors with special seminars.
Hand & Weapons forms never taught in the US. Video tape will
be made available for participants.
Sifu Eric Lee will be conducing seminar on Qigong, Meditation,
Chin-Na (joint lock), ground fighting, grappling, self-defense,
street fighting, philosophy and how to become a forms & weapons
champion. The event will be held on May 16, 1998 at the St.
Mary`s Byzantine, located at 4600 State Road, Cleveland, Ohio
44109 sponsored by Philippino Institute of Martial Arts
located at 5549 Ridge Road, Parma, Ohio 44129. Sifu Eric Lee is
a National 5 Times Forms & Weapons Champion. For more information,
call 440-886-2766.
Han Wei's WUSHU!
3216 Payne Avenue
Cleveland, Ohio 44114
A Newsletter for the Martial Arts Community!
1998 Han Wei National Martial Arts Championship Competition Rules
Competing Area
Judging/Officials
Dress Code
Traditional martial arts uniforms (preferred), or pants appropriate
for the martial arts plus a school or event T-shirt (note: push
hands competitors must wear short-sleeved shirts). The officials
of this championship reserve the right to make the final judgement
on appropriate attire. Shoes are recommended but not mandatory
for all events. All shoes should be regular gym type shoes or
shoes made specifically for the martial arts. For Grappling Divisions,
participant must wear a uniform that has a belt, full lapel or
collar (Judo, Jujitsu or Karate uniforms are recommended).
Protective Gear
Awards
All awards will be given immediately upon the completion
of each event. First, Second and Third place trophies will be
awarded to the top 3 competitors of each event. Certificate of
Participation will be mailed to all participants after the competition.
San Da Full Contact will receive a Championship Belt and Round-trip
airfare ticket to competitors U.S. destination of choice. Plaques
will be awarded to the most supportive school and to the most
award winning school.
Time Limits
Open Hand and Weapons Form Competition
2 Man Hand Form/Weapons Form
Same as the Open Hand and Weapons Form, but should also apply
the appropriate martial arts principles during their performance.
Higher scores will be given to those who display natural reaction
as opposed to `waiting` for particular movements. In addition,
judges will look for: realism while showing correct form, technique
and control.
Taiji Division (hand and weapon form)
All taiji forms will compete as one category. The judging
parameter will be based on several key principles such as rooting,
body flow, body movement, relaxation, maneuverability of the
weapon, the weapon-body flow, etc. Please be certain to demonstrate
the internal power of the taiji.
Other Internal Division (hand and weapon form)
Judges will score each competitor based on their knowledge
of the application, correct alignment, posture, stances, footwork,
martial spirit, choreography, the combination of weapon, body,
and mind, etc.
Light Contact Free-Sparring Competition
Legal hits: Light contact to the protective
head gear (with hand or fist only), controlled kicking or punching
to the body, arms and legs, except for joints, neck, groin, face
and spine, and to the side of the head. Illegal:
Chin Na, take downs, kicking or striking to the face, neck, spine,
eyes, throat or groin, and no leg sweeping. Fighting clock will
stop at every exchange of possible point scored. In the event
of a tie in points scored, both competitors are allowed to an
extended one minute match, first point wins.
Grappling Competition
San Da (Full Contact) Competition
YOU MUST HAVE BE OVER 21y.o. AND WITH MINIMUM OF 3 YEARS
OF MARTIAL ARTS TRAINING TO PARTICIPATE (verification
of years training MUST be submitted with registration form)
All fighters should use any possible way to `defeat` their
opponent during this event. The only `NOT ALLOWED` techniques
are strikes to the throat; striking opponent`s head continuously
to deliberately injure opponent while he/she is on the floor;
gouging to the eyes; gouging to the throat; choking; intentional
joint breaking.
The phrase, "...to deliberately injure opponent..."
should be the key factor when a foul call is made. Whether or
not the opponent is down shouldn`t have anything to do with issuing
a penalty. If a person is staggering on his feet and his opponent
winds up to knock him out, that is a serious foul. The center
referees should be advised to watch carefully for mismatches
and overly fatigued fighters and stop the fight. This should
also be the job of the corner men, and even judges should call
time if they suspect the fighter is `out on his feet`. The ultimate
responsibility is with the referee, he has all the authority
in the ring, and can call discretionary fouls and disqualifications.
Every incident of non-adherence to the rules should be pointed
out to the competitors.
Penalties:
- Minor infraction or `accidental` contact to restricted
areas. (Verbal warning to make sure the fighter knows it hasn`t
gone unnoticed.)
- Deliberate foul but not causing injury. (A formal warning
and 1 mark against offender.)
- 2nd foul with no injury. (Final warning before loss of
round and 2 additional marks against offender.)
- 3rd foul with no injury, or a deliberate foul with injury.
(Loss of round, or possible loss of fight.)
Scoring:
1 Point for any of the following:
- Clean, effective punch/kick to the head or body, or kick
to the outer thighs and other legal targets.
- Any technique that causes opponent to stumble.
- A throw in which both players fall. (Exception: When it
is an obvious ground technique where the attacker intentionally
falls)
2 Points:
- A strike that knocks down the opponent. It should be clear
that this differs from when a fighter stumbles.
- A clean throw with attacker not accidently touching the
floor.
Winner of the round:
- A joint lock that is executed within 5 seconds of contact,
(whether it be on the ground or standing), whereby the opponent
slaps out.
- Two knockdowns in the same round.
Winner of the match:
Knockout. or Winner of two rounds.
Fouls:
Besides the illegal techniques mentioned at above:
- No striking directly to the knees.
- No head butts.
- No groin strikes.
Cornermen:
Coaching is to be done between rounds by the cornermen only.
A fighter may have no more than two people in his corner. Yelling
from the corner during the fight is not allowed, and a fighter
can be penalized for their corner`s violations.
Push Hands
Competitors should perform their push hand accordingly, no
points will be allowed if the competitor demonstrates the use
of force to strike down their opponent. Restricted Step
Rules: Competitors are limited to the distance when taking
a step forward or backward while competing. When taking a step,
the back foot cannot pass the front foot nor can the front foot
pass the back foot. One point awarded for effective attack if
it forces the opponent to come off balance in any direction.
Two points will be awarded if the opponent falls or touches the
ground with his/her hand(s). Target areas: from
below the base of the neck to above the bladder area. Pushing
the neck, head, bladder area, hip joint, or leg is illegal. Violations:
Excessive contact; surprise attacks and punches; kicking, sweeping,
or wrestling techniques; contact to the head, throat or groin;
holding the leg or waist; grabbing and pulling the opponent`s
arm with both hands is not allowed. Grabbing with one hand and
redirecting with the other is acceptable.
NO POOR SPORTMANSHIP WILL BE TOLERATED, ANY PROFANITY
OR DISRESPECT IN THE RING IS SUBJECT TO IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION.
Variety of activities was planned
for Asia Plaza, starting with a chance to learn how to make Chinese
buns at Superior Bakery, and followed with Simon Chen writting
your name in Chinese characters. A wonderful Dim Sum at Li Wah
Restaurant was then the follow up break for all. Later an introduction
to the Mandarin language was presented at the Conference room
by Dr. Li Ming Wang, followed up by a martial arts demonstration
lead by Sifu Johnny Wu. Three schools performed at Asia Plaza,
starting with Sifu Mark Pringle and his students of Coiling Dragon
Wushu Kwan in Girard, Ohio performing different Taiji forms and
demonstrated the uses of Taiji in self-defense; Sifu T`shaka Brown
and students from the Shaolin Kung Fu School here in Cleveland
demonstrated their system including contemporary wushu forms.
Sifu Brown performed a straight sword routine, since we didn`t
have a sword handy, Sifu Wu requested one of the stores to loan
us a sword and the store owner gladly gave us a hand, in addition,
Sifu Brown also demonstrated different types of chin-na (joint
locking). Finally, Sifu Johnny Wu performed a short routine which
was composed of different techniques put together into an spontaneously
improvised form. At the end of the demonstrations, the spectators
were impressed with the skill of the performers. After the martial
arts demonstration, Susan Deng gave a lecture on Acupuncture and
Chinese Herbal Medicine at the conference room.
Master Shu-ton Tony Yang and students from
the Wu Tang Martial Arts Association of Ohio from Canton, Ohio
performed next. Several sets were being demonstrated by Master
Yang and his students, including Baji and Pi Qua. These are very
old martial arts systems dating before the 1600s. Baji Quan (8
infinite fist) is explosive in nature and characterized by loud
stomping. The body is relaxed until the point of impact. It is
considered both an Internal and External system and its effectiveness
in close-range fighting comes from making use of the entire body.
Pi Qua Zhang (chopping / hanging palm), on the other hand, is
open, with whip-like movements controlled thru the twisting of
the waist. It is used primarily for long range fighting. At the
Masters' level, BaJi and Pi Qua are combined in form and often
used to deliver blows to the bodies acupuncture cavities. The
system was so effective the it was often taught to the bodyguards
of emperors and presidents. As one of his last disciples, Master
Yang Shu-Ton learned these systems directly from the late Grandmaster
Liu Yun-Chiao, who in turn was the last disciple of the Great
BaJi / Pi Qua master Li Su-Wen, Also known as "Wonder Spear".
In addition, Wu Tang Martial Arts Association of Ohio performed
several weapon forms and the Praying Mantis: 7 Star, 8 Step Praying,
etc. Praying Mantis is a very fierce fighting system. Under the
guidance of Sifu Yang, Wu Tang students usually start with the
8 Step Praying Mantis System and then move into the 7 Star System.
Other systems taught include the Plum Blossom System, The Tight
Door System and the 6 Harmony System. Sifu Yang learned most of
his Praying Mantis as a disciple of Praying Mantis Master Su Yi-
Chang, one of Grandmaster Liu's first disciples.
Also finishing close and putting in an excellent
show were the Green Dragon Team, Oakland, Ca. - Coaches Eric Lee
& Sid Campbell, Tomo Institute of Worm, Germany, Street Lethal,
Liverpool, Australia - Coach Geoff Booth & Superior Arts Demo
Team of Philadelphia, Pa.
Fig
15
Fig 16
Fig 17
Fig
18
Fig 19a
Fig 19b
Fig
20
Fig 21
Fig 22
Fig
30
Fig 31
Fig 32
Fig
33
Fig 34
Fig 35
Fig
36
Fig 37
Fig 38
After the forms and weapons competitions,
Light Contact Sparring and Taiji Push Hands events began. The
final highlight of the day was the Team Competition. Five teams,
vying for the Six-Foot First Place trophy, had 15 minutes to show
their stuff. A team needed to have at least 3 members to compete.
They were required to play 5 forms, consisting of one barehand
form, one short weapon form and one long weapon form. The other
two forms were up to the discretion of the individual team. First
place went to Sifu Nice Gracenin`s Wushu team, followed by Sifu
Jeff Naayers` Wah Lum Temple, Sifu Dave Schenk`s Center For Body-Mind
Harmony, Sifu Ma Long`s team from Wu Tang (New York), and Sifu
John Chen`s team from Philadelphia.
