Instructors in Asia Pacific 

Instructor - Palmerston North (New Zealand)

I began my martial arts journey at the age of seven to help channel my boisterous nature and to develop self-control and confidence. Little did I know that over forty-five years later I would still be involved.

In my twenties I did a Degree in Education from a university in England. In my thirties I obtained a Master’s Honours degree in Education from a New Zealand university. In my forties I completed a PhD in Education from an Australian university. These international degrees were undertaken part-time whilst being married and raising a family of four children. I also proudly hold a fifth degree black belt in Shaolin Gao Can Mun Nam Pai Chuan.

Some might say I am an expert in both education and martial arts, so what have I learnt?

That to learn always you need great mentors, role models and teachers. I have been extremely lucky my Sifu, Lai Khee Choong, is a great teacher, a great role model and a great mentor. I’ve read that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery; I hope one day I might learn to be as accomplished as my Sifu in the practice and teaching of Shaolin Gao Can Mun Nam Pai Chuan.

When I left the UK in 1996 Sifu Lai requested that I help keep the art alive. I have endeavoured to do this by teaching seminars, workshops and classes of GCMNPC in England, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia and Japan.

I believe the relationship between student and master is sacrosanct; it is built through sweat, tears and occasionally blood. It is founded on trust, mutual respect, integrity and honour. I believe that the practice of traditional martial arts offer one of the few ways in a modern world to develop these characteristics.