I just wanted to comment on the Wong 2004 Tournament. The students that competed at this National Tournament did well. However, that is not what I wish to comment on.
This Tournament was extremely refreshing for me. The overall attitude was one of unity and fellowship. All of the participants portrayed this “Brotherhood” that I have missed so much. The “Virtues” that were displayed by all is something that all of us should model ourselves after. I did not detect even a hint or ‘Rivalry’ at this event. I wish there were more of us here in the Midwest that would behave this way.
There must have been over 65 Sifus at this event.
All of us were personally invited by Sifu Wong. That is the only way to participate in this yearly event. Most of the Sifus are “World Renowned”! It was great have that kind of association with those that know of my personal background. Sifu Raymond Wong is a hilarious man! When I walked in the door… he yelled-out over the loudspeaker “Sigung Cabais is in the house”! Talk about a shock to my nervous system.
He is extremely well mannered and extremely modest. It was nice to spend time with him.
Only Traditional Kung Fu systems and most of the “Top Schools” in the United States were invited. Contemporary Wushu systems were not allowed to attend and I saw some incredible “Southern Kung Fu” systems there. I also judged the "Advanced Female Weapons Divisions". Since we did not have anyone competing in those divisions I had no problem doing it. Unfortunatley not to many of us Northern systems were in attendance. Maybe that will change in the future.
Sifu Wong said something that struck very close to my heart. He said “Tournaments are not about competition. They are for making new friends.” Amen to that Sifu Wong!
We are going to return next year. I want to return “In Force” with as many students as possible. Start making plans! The more of you that attend, the better you will understand what I am talking about and you will also find a better appreciation for “Brotherhood & Unity”. You will see how “Traditional Values” affect the way we act and live our lives. Most of you in the Midwest have not seen too many examples of “Brotherhood & Unity” and that is very unfortunate.
