2002 National Championships

Report by Grandmaster Loke

Our 2002 Championships turned out to be an exceptionally successful event. Good spirit, sincerity, friendliness and technical excellence was demonstrated, true to the ideals of our martial art family. Referees, Judges and Officials worked very hard with patience and care to ensure all events were completed on time. These are the results of your regular training, dedication and good instruction from your Shi Fu's and Seniors. Well Done!

In memory of Mr Bill Edwards, I was very proud to present this special award for the "Most Outstanding Under-16 student" to Alex, age 7 from Haywards Heath, West Sussex. He was specially chosen to receive this award by his instructor, Shi Fu Adam Goward.

Mr Steve Ronketti and Mr George Ward, both 3rd Duan "Veterans" and instructors were honoured for exemplary dedication and consistency in their many years of participation. Participation, alone, is truly the most important key to our success. On the day, Referees and Judges nominated many for Outstanding Spirit - and these well-deserved students were chosen to receive this award, namely Cristina Parra-Rolden and Luke Preston from Grays HQ, Carl Prendergast (Haywards Heath) and Simon King (Epsom).

The presence of our two special guests, Mr Teik Hean and Mrs Susan Oh from Telok Intan, Malaysia, made this event even more memorable. Teik Hean, now age 59, was one of my very first group of six Duan "Thoo Di" who attained their black belts in 1973. They both enjoyed their stay in Great Britain but found our June weather cold!

You are all invited to give your suggestions or submit photos, reports and articles for our website. A wide range of photos were taken and published but we would like to receive more "action shots" for the tooi ta -free fighting competitions.

This year, we are all very much saddened that one of our instructors Mr Matthew Mayatt from Kent passed away on 28th July 2002, at the young age of 32 after a brave battle against cancer. Despite his illness and discomfort, he insisted on attending our Championships to give support to his wife Nicola and several students who participated. Our whole School sends our deepest sympathy to Nicola Mayatt and all the family. Nicola stood as a tower of strength during his illness and also in keeping the class running in Chatham.

I also want to take this opportunity to thank parents and family members who give so much of their time and support on this special day as well as regular weekly attendance of their loved ones in our classes. Tang Sou !!!

Grandmaster M.K. Loke
Founder

1st August 2002

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