Bao Trieu

Many Wushu enthusiasts looked forward with great joy to the first weekend of March 1999 because a seminar by Earl Blijd was given. This was organized in Ahlen, Germany by Manfred Timm - the leader of Bao Trieu Germany.

The name Earl Blijd guarantees Wushu at its best and so all where anxious to see what Earl would teach them. Besides Earl and with five of his students, Hongye Li and Antoine Schutte had also come to Ahlen.

All coaches, students and participants met on Saturday the 6th of March at 13:30 in front of the sports hall. The training started around 14:00. Earl's group practiced Wushu basics of Hung Gar and fighting techniques of Sanda. Hongye Li taught the skills of Taijiquan and Quigong. Antoine Schutte instructed basics as well as jumping techniques of Chanquan competition routine.

Of course every one sweated and was out of breath after 4 hours. Fortunately we had a great dinner in a Chinese restaurant. This was really necessary after such a day. The food was very delicious and everybody got to know each other better and had much fun. It was like a big family.

The five students of Earl and me slept in a private house. We were very pleased about the hospitality of this family. After a long, long night (with little sleep) the second day began. Knowledge of the previous day was repeated, improved and established. Of course we learned many other new things on this day too.

All in all I can say that it was a great experience and motivation for all and we learned once more that Wushu is not only a martial art; it is a life-style, a feeling, a big family.

Thanks to Earl Blijd, Hongye li, Antoine Schutte and Manfred Timm.

Hoping to see you all soon ....