On March 6, 2004 (Columbus OH) I finally got a chance to meet Sifu Raymond Wong in person. I have heard a lot about this man within the 'inner-circles' of Traditional Kung Fu. He is more than meets the eye. I rarely get the opportunity to feel energy and focus from other Sifus. This man has it and more. I could sense an energy from him that I have not felt from another person since Sigung Chiang had died.
We have been invited to his Tournament every year for the past three (3) years. This year was no different. I have always wanted to participate in his Tournament since it is by "Invitation Only". I like that. It keeps the eclectic Kung Fu schools out of the event since it is not an "Open Tournament".
Open Tournaments are the most common in these times. I enjoy meeting with other Martial Artists and watching other systems. However, there is something different about a "Traditional Kung Fu Tournament".
Sifu Wong's Tournament is listed here: http://www.wongpeople.com/tournament.html . I like his web address!
It is nice to see a (public) sense of humor from a Traditional Sifu. At least his is better than mine.
I would like to go to this event. I would like as many of you, as possible, to go and participate. We need to start planning for this event now! Respond to this 'Topic' so that I can start making Airline & Hotel reservations. If there are enough of our students that will be attending this event; I will most likely close the schools on August 7, 2004. We should leave on (No Later Than) August 7, 2004. Arrival back in Missouri would be on August 9, 2004. All you would need is one day (Monday) off from work.
The Sihings & I have a meeting planned for this weekend in Rolla MO. We will be discussing our Tournament schedule at this meeting. I only want our schools to compete in no more than four (4) Tournaments per year. That does not include our own since I consider that one to be just a gathering & celebration. We will make a decision on which ones to cater to. I hope Sifu Wong's Tournament is one of them. I have not told Sifu Wong that we will be attending yet. I would like to tell him that "we will attend" soon though.
