modarnis
Purple Belt
I'm just in from the East Lansing Camp. A great time was had by all. Despite hot humid conditions, about 40 arnisadors gathered for 3 1/2 days of quality training. Most of the camp was taught by Masters of Tapi Tapi, in no particular order, Randi Schea, Ken Smith, Jim Ladis, Chuck Gauss, and Brian Zawilinski. A wide range of material was covered. Emphasis was on footwork and the relationship of footwork to the execution of techniques. Siniwali boxing, empty hand trapping techniques, and multiple sessions on tapi tapi kept participants sweating profusely and adding to their respective art.
The highlight of the weekend was attendence at the camp from Master Samuel "Bambit" Dulay of the IMAFP. Master Dulay trained with the late Professor Presas from age 9. He worked arnis classic techniques. His emphasis was on abanico. He provided a variety of drills with double and single stick that developed abanico. He related the abanico to tapi-tapi and provided a roadmap to explore abanico during tapi-tapi free play.
Master Bambit's skill was evident. He is lightning fast and moves like a cat. He offered frequent praise and encouragement during his sessions, flashing thumbs up signs and smiles that reminded me of our late teacher. I was fortunate to share several meals and a few drinks with him. He was warm and engaging. He answered many questions about the state of Modern Arnis in the Philipines, his training with the Professor, and his vision for the future of Modern Arnis.
There were several black belt promotions including Roland Rivera and Earl Tullis, 4th Degree; John Doreck and DJ Wallace, 3rd Degree; Tom Cushing, Bill Boisvert, and LeeAnn Brophy, 2nd Degree. A variety of other students tested as well.
Chuck Gauss, in his usual no nonsense style managed the camp efficiently, making everyone feel welcome. He still had time to teach a few sessions and work with students old and new
Brett
The highlight of the weekend was attendence at the camp from Master Samuel "Bambit" Dulay of the IMAFP. Master Dulay trained with the late Professor Presas from age 9. He worked arnis classic techniques. His emphasis was on abanico. He provided a variety of drills with double and single stick that developed abanico. He related the abanico to tapi-tapi and provided a roadmap to explore abanico during tapi-tapi free play.
Master Bambit's skill was evident. He is lightning fast and moves like a cat. He offered frequent praise and encouragement during his sessions, flashing thumbs up signs and smiles that reminded me of our late teacher. I was fortunate to share several meals and a few drinks with him. He was warm and engaging. He answered many questions about the state of Modern Arnis in the Philipines, his training with the Professor, and his vision for the future of Modern Arnis.
There were several black belt promotions including Roland Rivera and Earl Tullis, 4th Degree; John Doreck and DJ Wallace, 3rd Degree; Tom Cushing, Bill Boisvert, and LeeAnn Brophy, 2nd Degree. A variety of other students tested as well.
Chuck Gauss, in his usual no nonsense style managed the camp efficiently, making everyone feel welcome. He still had time to teach a few sessions and work with students old and new
Brett
