Chau Luen Athletics is thrilled to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our students at the 2024 Can-Am International Martial Arts Championships, the longest-running and largest annual martial arts tournament in Canada. Competing against talented martial artists from across North America, our students showcased their dedication, skills, and passion. Tayden Wong, Leanne Yu, Andrew Wong, and Kyle Hui all brought home multiple medals in traditional kung fu, making our community proud.
Tayden was awarded two silver medals in the “empty hand” and “short weapon” categories for intermediate/advanced males (ages 14-17). Leanne won gold in the “short weapon” category for novice females (ages 35 and over). Andrew achieved gold in the “short weapon” category and silver in the “empty hand” category for intermediate/advanced males (ages 18 and over).
Finally, Kyle swept the competition with three gold medals at the instructor level for males ages 18 and over in the categories of “empty hand”, “short weapon”, and “long weapon”, as well as the grand championship trophy for scoring the highest total in his division. Kyle not only competed in traditional kung fu, but also served as a certified judge for the dragon and lion dance component of the championships.
Intense martial arts training regimens and family inspiration
Tayden and Leanne's paths to the championships were shaped by rigorous training and deep family roots in kung fu. Tayden, under the guidance of instructors Kyle and Andrew, as well as his father with over 11 years of training under sigung ("grandmaster") Peter Wong, received around-the-clock support as a first-time competitor. During the day, he refined his technique with practical tips from the instructors. Every night before bed, he practiced his hand set with his father and incorporated sprint training to boost his endurance and the explosiveness of his movements.
Leanne, who was also competing in the championships for the first time, initially felt hesitant about joining. However, with the encouragement of her father, a sifu ("master") in Vancouver's Chinatown, and realizing how intense training for a competition can help accelerate learning, she was motivated to push her limits.
"Every instructor in class was able to pinpoint different areas of improvement," she recalls. Chau Luen Athletics sifu Michael Tan's advice on achieving a flow state through focused practice near natural environments helped her overcome mental blocks she’d sometimes get while demonstrating. Practicing her double dagger set in a tranquil spot by the water transformed her training into a peaceful part of her day.
As for Andrew and Kyle who faced tough competitors at their levels, they focused on maintaining stamina for their high-intensity sets. In particular, Andrew worked on refining individual combinations to perfect his forms, while Kyle focused on improving his movements to make them stronger while conserving energy.
Balancing school, life, and kung fu training
For many of our students, preparation for the championships meant balancing rigorous training with their other commitments. Tayden and Andrew, both in school, had to carefully manage their time. When we asked Tayden how he does it, the 17-year-old says, "Prioritization and compartmentalization are key. School was my top priority, but I made sure to focus entirely on kung fu during practice sessions."
Andrew echoed a similar sentiment, explaining how he juggled multiple activities. "There’s a lot I love doing, both in and out of kung fu. Oftentimes, it seems like there’s no time to train, but making sacrifices and setting priorities helps."
Though not in school, Kyle and Leanne also had to balance their training with personal commitments as full-time working adults. However, they found ways to integrate their practice into their daily routine, making sure to carve out time for kung fu amidst their busy schedules. Kyle remarks, "It's all about making kung fu a non-negotiable part of your day. No matter how busy I get, I always ensure I dedicate time to practice because it's essential for my growth and well-being."
Reflecting on their victories at the Can-Am Martial Arts Championships
Tayden, despite first-time competition nerves, earned two silver medals and hopes to achieve even higher for future competitions. "I was aiming for gold because I know I can do better. This experience has shown me the areas I need to work on, especially my mental preparation," he humbly shares. His dad expressed pride and similar high expectations, viewing this as a stepping stone for ongoing improvement.
Leanne's father, a source of inspiration, celebrated her success. She remarks, "My father's confidence in me comes from being a champion in all my endeavors." Crediting the quality training at Chau Luen Athletics, she adds, "Training at Chau Luen Athletics provides that same supportive environment that allows for growth and excellence. It’s no surprise our entire team did so well – we championed each other into champions!"
As for Andrew, he recognizes a profound shift in his approach to forms since competing at the intermediate/advanced level. Initially viewing them as just a set of movements to practice, he now understands the combinations and the practical aspects. “What separates an intermediate student from an advanced student is the ability to dissect their forms and demonstrate their mastery over each specific technique,” he says.
Competing at the instructor level, Kyle won three gold medals and the grand championship trophy for scoring the highest at this level for males ages 18 and over. Reflecting on his victories, he shares, "Competing at the instructor level was a true test of my abilities. It pushed me to refine my techniques and elevate my performance to new heights.”
Advice for aspiring competitors and future goals in martial arts
Looking ahead with enthusiasm, Leanne expressed her commitment to continuous improvement, stating, "I look forward to advancing my skills and journey." Her growing confidence motivates her to inspire others, advising aspiring competitors to "have the audacity to embrace challenges; you'll surprise yourself with how far you can go."
Tayden, reflecting on his experience, advises new competitors to dedicate themselves fully to preparation, saying, "Throw everything into it for a month or two. Practice intensely and perform with confidence earned from all the practice you’ve been doing."
Andrew's aspirations extend beyond personal achievements; he is driven to help his peers advance in their martial arts journeys. He shares, "Helping other students progress is my goal," eager to give back to the community that has supported him. His advice to newcomers echoes his approach: "Have fun! At the end of the day, kung fu is a passion each and every one of us voluntarily dedicate ourselves to. It’s important to do your best, train hard, and practice with intent."
Reflecting on their long-standing affiliation with Chau Luen Athletics, both Andrew and Kyle highlighted its transformative impact on their martial arts skills and personal growth over the past 13 and 16 years, respectively. "From sparring to forms to lion dance and partner drills, Chau Luen Athletics has not only shaped us as kung fu practitioners but also as young adults,” says Kyle.
The 2024 Can-Am International Martial Arts Championships was a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of everyone at Chau Luen Athletics. Congratulations to all winners – we are incredibly proud of their achievements and excited to see what the future holds for each of them in their martial arts journey!
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