On August 23, 2008, Grand Master Wing Lam held a huge celebration. Not only was it his 60th birthday, he also held a bai see ceremony for 19 disciples. You can see the full list on the forum of his site. (Follow our link to MA Supplies.) I am so proud to announce that our own Sifu, Saleem Alamudeen, was one of those chosen to become a disciple of Grand Master Wing Lam. We hold Sifu Lam with the highest regard as a teacher and a friend. You can view a photo of Sifu Saleem posing with Grand Master Wing Lam in the gallery.

Simo Mardi

I pose a question to find your view on the mindset that exists today.

1. Is a true fighter one who defeats all of his opponents?
2. Or, is a true fighter one who shows no fear in the face of combat?
3. Is a true fighter one who attains a certain level or descends form a certain lineage?

I have my viewpoints, and am willing to share them, but first I would like to hear yours.

Sifu

The many obstacles that a martial artist comes in contact with are too numerous to list. They fall into categories of personal relationships (which we know to be a powerful force to reckon with), and also financial obligations and commitments. There is yet another obstacle, that is one of the most difficult, and that deals with self mastery. This is a challenge that a martial artist dedicates himself to early in his development. The first thing that must be understood is that we must develop the ability to make sound decisions based on our committed goals and desires. Our decisions should be supported by our choices and should of course, reflect those persons who are impacted by our decisions.

What do you, as students of Lam Tang, want to learn in future workshops? ...Something new, or a repeat?

The class is slated to start in the last part of June. Everyone who is interested in this training should be preparing their personal schedules and mental focus to begin soon. Class will be between 1-2 hours each Saturday, depending on what is accomplished. Students will be expected to continue the training on their own as directed.

I am very excited about beginning this training, and after great thought, I have put together a program that is divided into four different levels. The course will focus on breathing methods, qi gong, relaxation skills, and of course, the correct method of striking with the hand. I am sure the benefits will be great for all those who participate, and as I stated earlier, patience, diligence, and safety are deciding factors in one's achievement in this area of higher level training in the martial arts.

Testing was held at the school this past Saturday for The Young Tigers, adults, and most notably for the first Hasayfu promotion test. Congratulations to all who tested. You really have worked hard and believe me it shows. Sifu and I are proud of all of you! Check out the gallery for photos under Testing March 2007.

Simo Mardi

Did you know that Hasayfu has its own interpretation of Bridge Hand training? The traditional title for this method is the Hasayfu Hung Gar Bridge Hand Five Element Training. As in the Cantonese Hung Gar, the Bridge Hand is a vital and important element in evolving your fighting skills. The training drill is practiced with a partner, and its purpose is to develop strength and sensitivity. One of the objectives is to stick to one’s partner or to unbalance one’s partner, causing them to lose their center. Through attacking your partner’s stances, you will also develop a greater degree of strength and awareness of proper body shape and positioning.

Testing is coming up at the end of the month for some of our students. I was going through old photos yesterday, and found some that brought back memories. Take a look for yourselves in the gallery under "Put to the Test."

Simo Mardi

Master Saleem and Simo Mardi invited a group of senior students and their wives to share a meal family style. Our restaurant served up some great food and explained traditions with each special dish as it was presented. When we were ready to leave, full and happy, we were all given a red envelope with a gift of good fortune candy.

Students at Lam Tang know that I am responsible for anything camera. I switched over to a newer computer in January, and have been having some difficulties with getting everything to work as it should. I will be posting some new photos of some of our most recent activities over the next few days.

Simo Mardi