IAW Headquarters Trip – Day Nine

My final weekend kicked off with a bang of weapons during our Escrima Class. This was also the sequel to my testing for the Espada y Daga Level, the fourth of nine, along with Sihing Marc. We drew our swords and then sparks flew. It was also a treat to see Sifu transmit Combat Level material. Today he presented staff and spear methods. Imagine warriors of Sparta come alive.

After years of training and hours of testing, Sifu conferred to Sihing Marc and I the Espada y Daga Level certification. This was at once a proud and humbling moment, realizing some attainment as well as much more ahead.

A little break later, we rejoined for a Diploma Class. Continue reading

IAW Headquarters Trip – Day Three

Sunday was the official annual IAW Event for all members. Despite the nationally significant World Cup game with Germany versus England playing that afternoon, it was a good showing. Although from the cacophony that ensued after victory, perhaps even WingChun couldn’t drag hardcore soccer fans away from one of the many public screens. Black, red and gold streamed everywhere.

This was a gathering of WingChun people from throughout the whole organization. There were practitioners of all grades, from the First Student Level to the Master Degree, each excited to share a day of intensive practice together. Seven tough hours later, and seven long hours better, they were still going strong. Even one of the WingChun Tigers contingent, stayed until the end. Not bad for a six-year old.

I was happy to witness everyone engaged in continuous training, without making excuses about the heat or time. This kind of dedicated effort is the respected norm in the IAW. It was great to spend most of the day with Sije Nina, Sihing Marc and Sihing Tobias. We covered various Section, Lat Sao and Application ideas. Specifically, Section 1, 3, 4, 8 and 13, Lat Sao 1, 2, 3 and 5, and Application of Section 2, 3, 8, 13.

It all added up to an incalculable amount of inspiring insights. Continue reading