Sifu Maria MaCallum - 2nd Degree Black Sash

I started Martial Arts in my 20's studying a different Martial Art and moved on to Lau Gar when my instructor disappeared!

There was a Martial Arts class in another hall going on that I decided to go and watch. I was impressed not just by the style but also the atmosphere in the room, hard work mixed with humour and a teacher that was encouraging and kind as well as being knowledgeable.

Since then I've had a few different teachers, and have greatly enjoyed all their teaching styles, but for me the best teacher I've ever had is Alan Neeld. Even though I don't feel like I have natural ability in martial arts or natural co-ordination, I just keep practising and eventually I get it, with the help of my teacher's advice. Alan has always shown incredible patience with me and seems to always find a way of teaching me that I can understand. I have also made some good friends through Lau Gar that have supported me.

I was nervous about grading, but with the help of my fellow students and Alan, I have passed my Black Sash gradings. Without their help this would not have been possible.

When you join Lau Gar, it's like joining a family, we all look out for each other, we work hard, we have fun and we help each other to develop our martial arts skills.

Since I started, I have had many things going on in my life that meant I have had to take a break, or go to less lessons for a while, but I have never stopped training. I simply love studying Kung Fu!

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