Mark Kelly

Black Sash 1st Duan

Mark Kelly

I have trained hard to become an instructor, however I do not know everything, far from it. It is now time for me to not only learn but begin to understand that Art which is Chi'ang Shou Fa.

I was first introduced to Kung Fu by a relative of the Sifu and good friend, Stephen McKinnon, in primary six of King’s Glen Primary. I, as all young boys would, wanted to learn how to fight, thinking on the one punch knock-outs and generally hurting people (hence my email address). I never did learn how to properly “fight” until I was mature enough to realise a fight is one without fighting.

In my first few classes I was surprised by how simple Master Watson made techniques look, as did the other instructors. I found the techniques relatively easy to begin with (due to expert instruction from Master Watson), but as I began to train more, I became slightly complacent in class. I was swiftly put back into place with Sifu pointing out one, usually a few, mistakes in a technique. I worked hard to correct the mistakes I made; this turned out to be iterative and still continues to this day. No-one is perfect at anything, especially when it comes to the proper technique.

Even when I did get close to the “correct” way of executing a punch or kick, there was always more I could do to make them stronger, faster, simpler and more useable. There were always answers to my questions on how I could improve myself, even when I had not asked the question Master Watson was always advising me on how to become more proficient in the style.

Now I have become more mature, partly due to some wise words from Master Watson and other instructors, and realise that kung fu is not just for fighting or defending. I’ve become addicted to it in a way, it has become a part of my life, anytime that I cannot train, which is rare, I find myself reading Martial Arts books or going through forms in my mind. I have been known on occasion to practice forms in the street whilst waiting on busses or trains, and I wonder why people look at me funny.

I have studied a wide variety of styles and different arts under Master Watson, a few of my favourites are: Chi’ang Shou Fa Kung Fu, Wing Chun, Tai Chi - Chi Kung (Qigong), Kickboxing, Capoeira (good for dancing on holidays) along with a never ending list of useful Names of Instructors (and Masters), Styles, Historical figures to look up. All of which have provided extra knowledge and backed up what I have already learned and surmised from Master Watson’s teachings.

On recently passing my black sash grading, I have realised how much time I could of put to better use over these past 4 years since my last grading. I was very pleased to of passed this latest step in my martial arts life, but more so that a good friend and mentor David Dow also passed. Having a good friend on the same path in training, and life, is more help and support than I ever expected or asked for. I greatly appreciate all of the help that everyone has given to me over my continued years of training.

I have now entered a new phase of training which is not solely governed by Master Watson, but by my own instruction of classes, my interest in Limb Destruction, improving my fitness (and overall strength) and by the wise words of Si Fu David Dow. In the future I endeavour to open my own club, after I graduate from University. I look forward to Davy opening his own club, so that the style can continue in its various forms through a variety of experiences of many dedicated persons, and also for Davy and Master Watson to keep assisting and redirecting my training.

Mark Kelly

Kung Fu

Kickboxing

Capoeira

QiGong

Kali

Judo

Jujitsu