The August 2003 edition of Ray Dionaldo's FCS Gathering was held this past weekend in Clearwater, Florida. Associates came from as far away as California and Kentucky, North Carolina, Puerto Rico and places in between, to get together, share experiences and learn the latest developments in the system.
As promised, there was a lot of time devoted to the fighting applications of the Kerambit; in fact, most of the Gathering was dedicated to that Indonesian edged weapon. Ray displayed his trademark speed, fluidity and seamless combinations, taking full advantage of the Kerambit's unique characteristics.
Next on the first day was a series of knife disarms. In FCS, we avoid stripping blades off our on bodies, preferring to use the opponent's anatomy for that. This philosophy sets us apart from some of the more traditional FMA systems. We then moved on to knife against knife drills before calling it a day.
Unlike some of the previous Gatherings, there were no demonstrations by other martial artists, which, IMO, was a plus, since we had more time to work on FCS material - and after all, that's what we were there for, right?
On Sunday, we started with yet more Kerambit, building upon the previous day's lessons. From that, we went to close-quarter stick drills, using the punyo mano methodology, with emphasis on butt strikes, limb manipulations, locks, chokes and takedowns. Most of these moves, developed in great part with LEOs and security personnel in mind, are applicable both during stand-up grappling and ground fighting. Besides the traditional rattan sticks, Ray made use of an ASP expandable baton in both closed and open positions.
Once again, the Filipino Combat Systems' Gathering was a remarkable learning experience. Those with an interest in the martial arts of the Philippines should make it a point to attend at least once. This has been my third Gathering, and I can't wait for the next one.
