Dragon Style Issue 1

RAGONSTYL

Volume 13 Issue 1

The Official News Magazine of the Jeet Kune Do Athletic Association

JKDAA 2012 Year in Review Edition

table of contents

RAGONSTYL

Featured article

Welcome to DragonStyle...pg04

Featured article

Action Strength...pg08

DRAGONSTYLE Team The Dragon Style News Magazine is published bi-monthly by the Jeet Kune Do Athletics Association and is distributed by subscription only. Subscription opt in/ opt out and back issues are available online at JKDAthletics.com.

Founder and Publisher Sifu Harinder Singh Sabharwal Editor

Featured article

JKDAA in Calgary...pg10

Featured article

Warrior’s Way...pg22

Liz Fitzgerald Contributors Darrell Burton Julio Anta Nick Ellis Kyle McGahee Jay Cooper Hector Solis Clay Pratka Leigh Garczynski John Riddle Gavin Garringer Photo Credits Sifu Harinder Singh Liz Fitzgerald Julio Anta

Regular columns

Advertising Sales

Letter Fromthe Editor...pg03 JKDAA Events...pg14 JKDAA Regionals...pg18 JKDAA News..pg24

Anshu Sabharwal Sifu Harinder Singh Sabharwal If you would like to submit an event for publication, please email details, images, and necessary contact information to our editor.

To submit an article, please submit a query letter with topic information, length, image information, and 1-2 sample paragraphs to our Editor for consideration.

Contact Us:

2013 Training Schedule..pgBC

www.JKDAthletics.com

We welcome Letters to the Editor and to our regular columns and contributors. Please address your letters to Liz Fitzgerald at Liz@NekoOkami.com or directly to the author whereever different contact information is provided.

All material contained within the Dragon Style News Magazine is property of the publication, the Jeet Kune Do Athletics Association, and the respective authors. Unauthorized reproduction of any part of the publication is strictly prohibited.

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Making Martial Arts History - For the most part, I believe that we are all inclined to try to blaze a new trail for others to follow. We are driven to leave our mark in the world somehow, whether through action, the written word, legend, or at least in the memories of those whose lives we touch. Of those who seek to find the new, only a handful is able to create something so meaningful that it simply cannot be ignored, categorized or forgotten. These are the luminaries of the time.

The World of Martial Arts is no different in this respect. In this realm, luminaries come around once in a lifetime, true teachers that kick the slow evolution of the traditional Martial Arts into high gear, sparking mutations that forever change our movement, our philosophy, and, hopefully, our understanding. Teachers like Morihei Ueshiba, Ed Parker, and Bruce Lee revolutionized the arts and galvanized entire movements of faithful practitioners and disciples all fiercely loyal to their founding fathers in the ways they best see fit.

Unfortunately, sometimes the arts suffer under the weight of the defense of so many, when the view points are so vast and varied; and, because the founders have passed on from our world, they are viewpoints that can never be truly resolved for no other reason than the Instructors with the answers are not here to settle them.

Still, our Instructors did not leave us empty handed. They left behind a wealth of knowledge, in their writings, notes, journals, videos, interviews, and blood, sweat and tears on the mat, free for us to assimilate, analyze, interpret and apply to the best of our abilities. We have but to seek out the answers to find them. The question is, how many of us still seek to answer the questions?

The Secret Back Fist - Many of the Martial Arts we practice today house numerous factions, associations, and federations, all of whom believe and insist that they alone have the secrets of the founders, that only they can truly convey the meanings and teachings of the art as they were meant to be learned. The unfortunate result is infighting within the art itself. That staunch loyalty to the style simply becomes the means by which the student is kept from discovering for him or herself the path the founders laid out. Often, those very students get caught in the cross-fire of a feudal society within the Art that can end in resentment and eventually abandonment of the path.

We can thank, in large part, the dark shadow of business marketing that looms over any dojo that hopes to make a decent living, for this Curse of the Secret Back Fist. Let’s face it, as a wise, not-so-old Instructor of mine once said, “Money might not buy happiness, but poverty doesn’t pay your bills, and if you want to train, you have to eat.” Economics are, in part, at the root of many of the disagreements between styles of the same art that we see today. How? A dojo that wants to keep its doors open needs to drive new students to its mat, so that, as some students leave, the spot is immediately filled by a new, paying member. But, with so many options available to a new or prospective student, each dojo has to find a way to shine and stand out from the crowd. And there you have it, The Secret Back Fist. It really is that simple.

Is This What the Founders Wanted? - As students, we must maintain a discerning eye. We must be willing to ask ourselves: Is this really what the art is about? Is this really what the Founder wanted me to learn?

Is this really what he foresaw or hoped his art would become?

I cannot personally imagine Sijo Lee or O’Sensei, both of whom worked throughout their lives to birth philosophies that were uniting and open, would have wanted their teachings to become fragmented, sectionalized, and, in some cases, stagnant under the weight of “Tradition.” I believe that they’d hoped the arts would continue to evolve in their absence, in harmony. Evolution is sometimes a messy endeavor to which many feuds can be attributed as well; however, in some cases, it seems as though the disagreements are less about the course the art should take and more about the person guiding a particular path.

Every Day on the Mat Makes History - Both Sijo and O’Sensei started as students somewhere. Every time they set foot on a mat, a little piece of the history behind their arts was written. Sijo’s very first Pak Sao as a student of Wing Chun under Yip Man in 1954, O’Sensei’s first throw as a Daito-ryu Aiki-jujutsu student under Takeda Sensei, founder of that system, in 1915, these were moments that became history. They were the launching pad for arts that transformed the world of Martial Arts as a whole, but it all started with one student, one day, on a training mat at a dojo, just like so many others.

What do I mean to say with all of this? While innovators like Lee, Takeda, Parker, and Ueshiba are one in a million, every day that we, as students, train, every step we take on the mat, every time we speak about our styles, our philosophies, our movements, our instructors, and our heroes, we have the opportunity to write a little piece of the history of Martial Arts. When we dispute the merits or faults of one style over another, we may be influencing a future leader, or even ourselves. When we bicker over who has the right or the means or truth to carry on the tradition of the art, we risk its evolution, its mutation, its ability to become more than we can imagine and actually blossom into that which its Founding Father or Mother knew it would become.

We must be watchful, always, of our words and actions on and off the training floor, because every day we practice our art, each time we apply a principle or uncover a new aspect of its philosophy, anytime we pass on the knowledge we have gathered from our Instructors and experience, we make Martial Arts History.

In Health, Liz Fitzgerald, Editor

RAGONSTYL

WELCOME DRAGONST

Welcome to our first edition of Dragon Style Magazine.

This issue is a recap of all of the amazing events and accomplishments of 2012.

2012 had all of the characteristics of a typical Dragon Year, filled with swift changes and brand new beginnings.

It also marked the birth of the Jeet Kune Do Athletic Association.

The Jeet Kune Do Athletic Association was created to preserve and perpetuate the martial arts, functional fitness, and life philosophies of our founder Bruce Lee. Our members study and train diligently. JKD Athletic Association members are dedicated to providing top quality instruction in the Art and Science of Jeet Kune Do and the Functional Fitness and Attribute Development system of Action Strength.

2012 was a very successful year for the US. We launched our official curriculum, weekly group classes and phone consultations, weekend intensive training sessions, individual yearly training plans, public seminars, and now, finally, our website(www.jkdathletics.com).

I would like to share some of the most memorable mo-

ments of 2012 with you.

We started 2012 off with a bang. In February first public JKDAA seminar in El Campo, Tex Pratka and Beverly Holik were great hosts, with students, and their lodge is absolutely amazing forward to our official 2013 Texas JKDAA Re Campo Texas from March 22-24. There will b JKD and SPECOPS Kali Certification at this ev

In the first week of March, we headed to S Florida. For a week of great training at Sgt. J and Leigh Garczynski’s Progressive Self Defens in Boca Raton, Florida. After a great weekend with participants from all across Florida, we ha of working with West Palm Beach SWAT. Gavin Darrell Burton and Hector Solis made the trip from California to help put on a fantastic semin

John Riddle and Leigh Garczynski will be hos ficial JKDAA East Coast Retreat. May 31-Jun This will be the first retreat in which there will and OC Pepper Spray Instructor Certification Military JKD and SPECOPS Kali Certification.

In April 2012 Officer Darrell Burton and I atten ternational Law Enforcement Educator’s and T sociation convention, to present our annual “J and Police Officers”, an eight hour certificat Gavin Garringer also made the trip to help us as course. In 2013 we will be back in Chicago, Illin Straight year. ILEETA runs from April 15-20, 2

In the last week of June 2012, we kicked off o JKD Athletic Association Weekend Intensive Tr sions for members only. This event was once a

by John and Leigh from Boca Raton, Florida. by my side, the entire south Florida(Julio, A Cat)crew together, along with the good old boys gia(Jason, Kyle, Mike), and a few select studen we had an intensive weekend of training in Jun Fu, JKD, and Kali. How can you forget the bea beaches and tropical atmosphere. South Flor second home to me.

July and August 2012 were very busy months f letic Association.

Hector Solis traveled to Chile and to Mexico public and military seminars. He has been inst spreading JKD and Kali to South America.

John Riddle and I traveled to Virginia to prese lice and LEO JKD” Certification for Law Enfo Team One Network. This event was very succ after being selected by Team One Network, we forward to working with them in 2013.

We also traveled to Maryland, to a Secret loca with some of our nations finest Agents and These Agents are responsible for the protection ident and dignitaries across the globe. John Ri Garringer, and Hector Solis made this trip a succ ing operation.

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Sifu Singh Delivers a Ted Talk on The Secret to Quieting the Mind In the end of August 2012, I had an opportunity of a Lifetime to give a Ted Talk, at TedX Sacramento. The topic of the keynote speech was “Thought Catching - The 5 Minute Secret to Empty Your Mind and Raise your Performance Levels”. This was an extraordinary opportunity to spread some of Brue Lee’s concepts of “Being Like Water” and “Living in the Present Moment”. It was truly amazing to watch a crowd of 300 people meditate and quiet their minds together.

At the end of September, we held our first Warriors Way Retreat in Hawaii. The Warriors Way Retreat was designed to infuse martial arts, meditation, and island adventures into one big vacation. It was amazing to watch people conquer their fears, and live in the present moment, while taking in all of the beauty of the island. The most memorable moments came just hanging out with each other and getting to know one another. A big thanks to Anshu, John, Leigh, Gaby, Javier, Ranil, and Gavin for making this a wonderful trip. Without my friend and amazing Hawaiian Guide Kapena Kahapea, we would not have had a chance to get such a majestic experience with the Island.

In October 2012 we launched our very first Action Strength Level 1 certification. We were back to our favorite place in Boca Raton, with John and Leigh. With over 20 participants everyone came prepared to train hard for 24 hours over 3 days. The participants not only were tested on their technical knowledge, but were also pushed to their physical limits with 3 workouts a day. We saw people compete in the optional Gama Challenge. The Gama Challenge is 500 Dands(Indian Push-Up) and 1000 Bhetaks(Indian Squat) in 30 minutes. The following individuals passed the Gama Challenge : Nick Ellis, Clay Pratka, Gunnar Nelson, Herschell Patel, Kyle McGahee, Jason Herrera.

Nick Ellis and Brian Olson attempted and completed The Kettlebell Challenge. Which is 100 Snatches with a 53lbs Kettlebell in 5 minutes. Congrats to all of you that were certified as Level One Instructors. A special mention goes to Nick Ellis for receiving his Level Two. A big congratulations to two of the guys that have been with me since the start of Action Strength. Gavin Garringer and Brian Olson for being promoted to Action Strength Level Three Instructors.

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September 2012 started off with a bang. We had our first Guest Instructor, Prof. Marcel Louzado conduct a private training session for our JKDAA members in Orange County, California. A big thanks to Gavin Garringer for hosting and making it a memorable weekend. Marcel shared some of his grappling strategies and tactics that made him a 3x World BJJ Champion. I had a great time with the Southern California crew(Brian, Herschell, Josh, Big Josh, & Austin), Nick Ellis for flying in from Washington, and the Georgia boys(Kyle & Mike for making the trip).

Derek Sierra Wins – Naga PanAm Grappling Championship

In November 2012 we headed North to Calgary, Canada.

Jay Cooper and his gang hosted an amazing seminar over 3 days. On Friday Night Jay Cooper got everyone ready with a great presentation on street combat tactics. After the crowd was thoroughly warmed up with Jay, John Riddle our special guest instructor took over. John gave an inspiring presentation covering Krav Maga Tactics and the science of Situational Awareness. Saturday and Sunday were filled with great training in JKD, Kali and Tai-Chi. Leigh Garczynski and Kirk Weicht flew all the way to Calgary for this event.

Jay Cooper and Calgary JKD will be hosting the 2013 Canadian JKDAA Retreat. This 3 day event, July 12-14, will take place the same week as the World Famous Calgary Stampede. There will be a Military JKD and SPECOPS Kali Cer-

RAGONSTYL

WELCOME DRAGONST tification at this event.

In December we had an amazing Weekend Intensive Training in Jun Fan Gung-Fu and JKD Street Fighting. Big thanks to Proj. Hundon for hosting us in San Francisco. The good old boys(Kyle and Mike) flew out for this event from Georgia.

India and Blitz Magazine in Australia. The Pro apply locking and controlling tactics out of boxin and movement is second to none. We are ve have the Prof. as our Locking and Control Tacti

I would also like to recognize some very special accomplishments in 2012 by some of our JKD Athletic Association members.

Congratulations to Sgt. John Riddle for winning 2012 Black Belt Instructor of the Year

In October I was so proud of my good friend and Law Enforcement Advisor Sgt. John Riddle from Boca Raton, Florida. John was awarded the 2012 Black Belt Magazine’s Instructor of the Year. This is one of the highest honors a Martial Artist can receive. John has dedicated his life to the martial arts, self defense and self preservation. Just as impressive as his years of training and life experiences, is his teaching ability and connection with his students.

Prof. Hundon shares Small Circle Jiu-Jitsu History in Blitz and Karate Times Magazine

I was very happy to see my good friend Prof. James Hundon’s article on his relationship with Prof. Wally Jay and Small Circle Jiu-Jitsu get picked up by two major international publications. It was published by Karate Times in

Julio Anta was given proclamations from the C and Miami-Dade County for The Anti-Bullying developed based on Bruce Lee’s teachings. T is called the “Art of Fighting without Fighting™” his team taught this program to their commun workshops. Julio was also a guest on 10 TV S radio stations in 2012, presenting topics on a self defense, and Jeet Kune Do.

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Liz and Cat Fitzgerald were named Presenter/Program of the Year 2012 by Tracey Mourning Wilson’s Honey Shine organization for their ASSERT Program. Tracy Mourning is the wife of famous NBA Basketball Star Alonzo Mourning.

Liz and Cat do a lot of charitable work with many different groups from foster kids, to the Girl Scouts, to helping pregnant teens, and several groups of previously victimized men, women, and children.

Well that wraps it up for the first Issue of Dragon Style Magazine. We had a great 2012, and 2013 is poised to be even better. Dragon Style Magazine will be a platform for JKD Athletic Association Members to write articles, promote events, and share knowledge. In our next issue you will see articles on many different topics on the martial arts. The topics will cover everything from teaching, training, marketing, and business development. Our members have so much unique knowledge, the goal of Dragon Style is to share this knowledge, so that we may all grow as a team.

Last but absolutely not least. A very big thank you and round of applause for Liz Fitzgerald. Liz has volunteered her time and knowledge in the Media and Magazine Editing Business to make Dragon Style a Success.

In Strength, Sifu Harinder Singh

Featured Article

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ACTIONSTRENGT DATELINE: Spanish River Park, Boca Raton, Florida.

My experience at the Action Strength Certification was incredible. Having been to many fitness certifications, sports trainings, and seminars, this particular event blew me away! It was incredibly productive, educational, detail oriented, and intense.

Sifu Singh’s presence along with his wife Anshu, set the tone for training before it began. It helped me feel calm and at peace. The location was beautiful. I heard the waves slowly crashing. I felt the warm air on my skin.

Excitement and anticipation surged through our group. There were no distractions from the outside world.

The Instruction was top notch. Training was set at a perfect pace for every individual. Sifu Singh taught us the kettlebell, the Gada (Indian Mace), Tai Chi, and Mala Vidyea. All ancient methods of training being passed down to us. Every aspect of the workouts and exercises were delivered with impeccable detail.

Sifu Singh walked us through every exercise step by step. From preparation to execution, we were taught how to perform the exercises safely and efficiently. We were taught correct posture and how to control our breathing for maximum efficiency. We were taught to direct our minds’ intent.

After instruction, Sifu Singh answered every question thoroughly.

During this time we had moments to teach and learn from each other. In this, we progressed as one unit. This built a great camaraderie among the group.

Feeding off each others’ energy, we pushed and supported one another through the Gama Challenge and Snatch Test. The support I was sur-

rounded with pushed me to new heights. I excelled.

On the last day, we reviewed everything we were taught. After hours of training, Sifu Singh was able to push us further than we could have ever pushed ourselves.

My heart raced as our final workout came to its peak. Then Sifu Singh unexpectedly shifted us into Tai -Chi. I closed my eyes and felt my heart pounding in my chest. I became one with myself. As we breathed in unison, we became one with each other.

I inhaled and felt the peace and calmness that I had felt at the beginning of that incredible weekend. It was then, at that moment, I knew that I would never be the same. This was Action Strength.

Author:: Nick Ellis

For more information on the Action Strength Program, visit: www.jkdathletics.com/ActionStrength.

Gavin performing an extraordinary Balancing Act

THImmersion and Certification Weekend Group Shot

Nick Ellis Conquers the Snatch Test

The GAMA Challenge

KettleBell Fundamentals

The Art of Tai Chi

Featured Article

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JKDAA CALGAR

J s H

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c S re p S a h re

November 2012 saw the first JKDAA Canadian Seminar hosted

by Calgary JKD and 5 Elements Martial Arts Ltd. The venue was the 5 Elements dojo, a facility that hosts several WKC World Champions, Muay Thai champions and currently trains UFC fighter Nick Ring. Even with such a high standard of practitioners at the dojo the anticipation of having someone of Sifu Singh’s caliber visit Canada was off the charts .

The vast majority of those present had never met Sifu before, and the tales they had heard of his prowess from those who had previously had the honor of training with him only made them more excited.

They were not disappointed!

To make the weekend even more spectacular, Sgt John Riddle was in attendance and had agreed to do a guest Instructor spot on the Friday evening. Anyone who has ever seen John instruct knows what a singular presenter he is. I have always described

o S c s A in a w a fa Somewhere in the Friday afternoon I no exaggeration to merized by what w and pages of notes can make the differ If nothing else othe pak sao!

As short break fo nights fun and froli to adrenal triggers principle to genera the main course of If you have never started off running downs from Krav M

YHeating Things Up in the Frozen North!

ohn as “the Professionals Professional” – omething that doesn’t really do him full justice.

Having him visit was a massive honor.

Despite the fact that this was Calgary in Noember, the weather was remarkably clement… omething that came as a tremendous relief to ohn, who exclaimed “WORLD TAEKWONDO FEDERATION!!” when he was told the temperature was “only -8 degrees” After a much delayed flight from San Franisco, Sifu Singh arrived late Thursday evening.

Singh, John and I went to a local restaurant and elaxed over a bite to eat. It was a humbling experience for me to be sat in the restaurant with Singh and John and the evening just flew past as we talked about training. Life in general and ow crappy Calgary drivers are (it’s true…they eally are terrible!)

FRIDAY Friday arrived and as a special treat Singh had offered to teach a closed door session for my Senior Students. Singh treated us a session fousing on trapping out of movement, showing eamless integration of Wing Chun and Kali.

As well as covering 5 lines of entry and attack n detail, Singh took us through variations against differing styles – the highlight of which was the three count gunting, which caused an audible “ooh” when delivered for the first time… ast does not even begin to cover it! e few hours between the previous evening and had managed to pick up a gastric virus so it is o say I was not at my best! Even so I was meswe were covering and came away with pages s and drawings. It’s incredible how small things rence and take you game to a whole new level! er people got to feel how damn hard Singh can

the more conspicuous Reality Based Self Defense Systems, and John showed some devastating stuff. From there we were treated to one of John’s talks concerning situational awareness.

I always learn something whenever John speaks and this was no exception John took Calgary’s crime stats and used them as the basis for his presentation. It was an absolutely riveting talk and although we went over time not a single person cared. Truly a great way to kick off the weekend!

SATURDAY Saturday arrived and the main event began!

Sifu Singh was received was great enthusiasm and wasted no time at all getting us into the swing of things – literally! Everyone picked up their kali sticks and began a session of carrenza free flowing – Singh’s maxim of “Go low and go slow so you can flow” was on everybody’s lips. Those for who kali was a new art picked things up quickly, and for the experienced it brought new perspective to their practice.

Singh then took us through numerada drills, each technique building on from the last. Far from making this a random “feed and counter”, there was a structure and progression built into the material. Even the neophytes looked awesome after drilling the material over and over.

Singh then took us through the combat flow between arts – entering to trapping to takedowns to Ju Jitsu everything flowed seamlessly! There was a lot to take onboard, but no one felt overwhelmed Saturday training drew to a close but the fun did not end! A short trip down the road to the “Coach & Horses” and the UFC fights!

Everyone loved hanging out with John and Singh…and me possibly…and the food and drinks were a reward for a hard days training.

Sunday commenced with some Action Strength to really get the blood pumping – everyone soon got into the swing of things and before you knew it the sweat was pouring. Great way to kick things off!

We then rolled (pun intended) into chi sao drills, and area that or some food and we rolled over into Friday many know but few understand. Just sticking hands with Singh ics! I started things rolling with an introduction is a humbling experience, especially if like me you are as subtle and preemptive striking using the “double hip” as a brick through the window! To say this put some polish on our ate impact. This was merely the appetizer for moves and flow is something of an understatement.

The day progressed and Singh took us through some kick ass f Sgt John Riddle. r heard John present you have missed out. He trapping and destruction drills – introducing the concept of the g us through some weapon control and take- “third hand” and again demonstrating the integration of disciMaga. This was a fascinating look into one of plines. What you can’t help but notice, or in this case NOT notice,

Featured Article

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JKDAA CALGAR is the way that there is no “gaps” or “links” in Singh’s movements – “Panther-like” is how one person describe him. More than that he epitomizes the concept of a JKD “blend” - As Singh moves you only see efficiacy ; there is no gap in the flow where one art stops and another starts.

At the closing of the weekend certificates of attendance were awarded and two students received promotions. Mike Leblanc and Prinesh “P-Dog” Singh were both promoted to Phase 1, having shown exceptional skill and attitude over the course of the weekend.

Special mention must be made to Kirk D Weicht, who made the trip up all the way from Texas and who spent most of the weekend trading heavy blows with one of my Seniors Justin Pfeifer – Kirk, you rocked man! It was an absolute pleasure to have you here with us!

Another special mention must also go to my student Heather Chong who stole the show at the presentation by managing to hit Sifu Singh around the head with her certificate of attendance!

This is the only blow anyone managed to land on Singh all weekend, so she must take kudos for that alone!

Final thoughts Few people I have encountered epitomize the virtues of humility, dignity and character the way Singh does. Everyone present was blown away by him as a teacher, fighter and a person. So many times you hear about how politics disrupt and in many cases destroy individuals in the martial arts world, yet here was one of the top exponents in the world today treating everyone as part of the

family. I am honor and above all my f Without exception Singh coming back turning July 13-14 better because we with the Calgary St world’s biggest out Saddle up and h gonna be one hell Author: Jay Coop letic Association’ Regional Training tive

YHeating Things Up in the Frozen North!

red to count him as my Instructor, my mentor friend. n, everyone in attendance asked me “when is k?” I was happy to tell them that he will be re2014, and that this time it will be bigger and are tying it in tampede, the tdoor show! old on – it’s of a ride! er, JKD Aths Canadian Representa-

JKDAA Events

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Hector Solis has been teaching seminars Bruce Lee was all about, JKD. in Mexico and Chile for the last few years.

This support has lead to Hector Last November was his third visit to Sanvisit to Santiago de Chile, tiago Chile teaching a seminar in Kali & information, learning, and mee JKD. ple who have eventually have Although traditional Martial Arts domi- good friends. During his visits h nate South America to even a higher de- the opportunity to meet traditio gree than here is the U.S., Kali, JKD Silat, tial arts students, instructors MMA and others fighting arts are slowly Forces instructors and member gaining popularity. Some established inHector hopes this is just the structors and many novice martial artists of a long journey, not just in are becoming increasingly curious and Mexico, but also in other countr are giving foreign instructors an opportuto take a chance and open thei nity to share what not so long ago was alnew ideas, new arts, and new f most an impossibility, the opportunity to cross train in a variety of arts and of Author: Hector Solis is the JKD course have a little piece of what the late Association’s JKD & Kali Trainin

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2012 ILEETA

JKD for Police and Law Enforcement

During the month of April every year for six days in Wheeling, Illinois, a meeting of the minds takes place in Law Enforcement. It is the International Law Enforcement Educators and Trainers Association (ILEETA) conference and training. At this gathering there are instructors and educators from hundreds of departments and agencies across the country, and even a few from as far as Japan. ILEETA’s mission is simple; it serves as an organization committed to the reduction of law enforcement risk through the enhancement of training for criminal justice practitioners.

Yearly at this conference, the who’s who among law enforcement trainers and educators present scholarly work, certification and trainings to fellow instructors that would essentially cost thousands of dollars if done singularly throughout the year. Instructors of these courses are recognized among their peers and the world to be the experts in their field of study and have dedicated much of their life to the training of our nations warriors. To attend the trainings at this conference, you must be an instructor for your respected law enforcement agency / department, military included, or a validated instructor to such personnel. Maintaining a high standard of qualification is very important to insure only the very best is provided to participants and fellow instructors, who will take what is learned back to their students.

It has been under these exceptional guidelines that the Jeet Kune Do Athletic Association has functioned. For three years Sifu Harinder Singh and his Instructor, Darrell Burton have had the

privilege of training some of the nations finest for an eight hour certification seminar surrounding combative skills, JKD style. Agencies represented that have attended this certification include CIA, FBI, Military personnel, state and local departments. Many of you may not know, but training law enforcement is a task in and of itself, but to train only instructors of those respective departments, you have to exhibit a high level of mastery with your craft and an understanding of what is encountered by theses officers and their troops on a daily basis. If you do not accomplish this, you will not be asked to return to instruct, and most of all, you will loose the respect and confidence of your peers.

It is safe to safe to say Sifu Signh has attained the respect and confidence of instructors’ world wide and within the law enforcement community.

With course attendance continuously rising each year and the demand for this style of combative mastery, we only expect to continue our services to the warriors represented at ILEETA and provide them with the cutting edge of JKD combative skills and training unlike the world has ever seen.

For information regarding ILEETA and the training it provides to law enforcement internationally and locally, please go to www.ileeta.org.

Darrell Burton, JKD Athletic Association’s Law Enforcement Training Officer

Author:

JKDAA Events

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JKDAA SOCA One of the first seminars I attended with the JKD Athletics Association was in July of 2012. The focus was Jun Fan Kickboxing, Trapping and Energy Drills. It was there that I realized my knowledge of Jeet Kune Do only scratched the surface of its true essence.

Sifu Singh’s dedication and discipline to this art is unmatched and I am often reminded why many call him one of the best in the world when I work with him.

The first day we began our drills out of Kali, utilizing the stick to understand timing and half beats. Continuing the flow, we learned counters to those half beats, and eventually, counters to those counters.

Moving on to empty hands from the boxing matrix, we began to apply traps, working forward pressure and finishing

up with various kicking combin well. The second day covered en sensitivity drills, even workin reference point trapping drills de increase hand speed and coordin the end of the weekend, we ha a lot of material while improvi utes and physical conditioning.

This progressive methodology what produces the premier mart that comprise the JKD Athletics tion. At the end of the weeke worked with some amazing mar and felt humbled by the talent I throughout my time there. I fel understanding to be exponenti creased and I have been to alm seminar since.

Author:Kyle

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Grappling & Ground Fighting 101 with Special Guest 3x World BJJ Champion, Marcel Louzado In September of this past year I had the privilege of attending a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu seminar hosted by Sifu Harinder Singh and Special guest 3x world BJJ Champion Marcel Louzado. This was by far my greatest event to date in my 6 years of BJJ training, which includes many with World Champions.

This workshop was completely different. It addressed jiu jitsu ground fighting with a judo twist but was reality based for real world purposes. It didn’t focus strictly on jiu jitsu for tournaments with a plethora of chokes and submissions but more on the necessity for base and position domination for a real world ground fight scenario. Marcel was amazing at teaching how to maintain a dominant position in a ground fight and Sifu Singh followed up with amazing kina mutai(the art of uninterrupted biting) techniques from traditional jiu jitsu positions. Move after move and position after position Marcel showed with a hands on approach the same techniques that have made him a 3x BJJ world champ. He demonstrated awesome techniques to submit and defeat your opponent in a ground fight on the street. The asymmetric violence demonstrated by Sifu Singh’s kina mutai techniques put this workshop and weekend over the top. Especially in how to train for such instances with things like the Kina Mutai bite flow sombrada pattern which couldn’t be more realistic as to what you may face in an animalistic street fight with no rules.

This workshop showed the entire matrix of a

ground fight. Marcel took you through the clinch, pummel and takedowns all the way to the ground and from there the different ways to use Jiu Jitsu and Judo to your advantage to maintain base and position while striking from the ground and Sifu Singh finished it off with his asymmetric escalation of violence in life or death instances with Kina mutai. This was definitely the most eye opening ground fighting seminar that I have ever been exposed to.

Author: Gavin Garringer, JKD Athletic Association’s Action Strength Training Officer

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2012 was a busy time on the East Coast for JKD Athletics. During the month of April, Sifu Harinder Singh Sabharwal, instructors and members of the JKD Athletics Association from all over the United States gathered in Boca Raton Florida, at Progressive Self Defense Systems Training Center for a weekend of training in Jeet Kune Do. JKD Athletics Instructors John Riddle and Leigh Garczynski hosted the weekend event that started on Friday afternoon where instructors got together and trained together to warm up for the active weekend ahead.

On Saturday morning the Progressive Self Defense Systems facility quickly fill up with martial artists and non-martial artists who have an interest in Bruce Lee’s art of Jeet Kune Do. The weekend was action packed with learning breath control, movement drills out of western boxing, kali and Jun Fan Jeet Kune Do. By the time Sunday afternoon was over everyone was moving with great timing, moving like fighters and breathing easily under the stress of hand to hand combat.

Although the weekend seminar was over for most and everyone who left brought valuable information home with them, the remaining instructors had a special treat in store for them come Monday morning. PSDS co-owner John Riddle, a 28 year veteran of the West Palm Beach Police Department, a Road Patrol Sergeant and 16 year veteran of the S.W.A.T. Team brought in the best of the best, West Palm Beach Police S.W.A.T. The SWAT Team started training with JKD Athletics from 9am until 4pm. This elite group was put through their paces in the arts of Jeet Kune Do, Kali and Western Boxing. When it looked like they were starting to get the movements down Sifu Singh changed things up on them and threw in some of his Action Strength program. Body weight squats, push ups, Kettle Bells and the Gada were introduced in between sparing with weapons and boxing just to add pressure and get the point across about proper breathing techniques will under the pressures of combat.

COAS

At the end of the day we sent the men of West Palm Beach SWAT home tired and sore but much more educated in Bruce Lee’s art of Jeet Kune Do. In September, Sifu Singh returned to the east coast to northern Virginia where he met up with Instructor John Riddle where they did a presentation at the yearly conference for TeamOne Network.

This conference was a great venue to introduce and promote Bruce Lee’s art of Jeet Kune Do to the Law Enforcement and Military community. The presentation was demonstrated in front of approximately 50 active TeamOne Network instructors and several instructor “candidates” who were also waiting to do their presentations on different material. The presentation was a success and now we wait for the promotion in the TeamOne Tr logue where dates and training ve displayed.

When the presentation at TeamOn pleted there was no time to waste John Riddle drove over to Marylan cret Service Training Academy. where two more JKD Athletics Instr tor Solis and Gavin Garringer, flew i in with their expertise for a day of tra cret Service Training Staff. These Se Training staff are the “Cream of the have “been there, done that”, and n at the academy training recruits agents with the skills they need. It w to be there and train with such a gro skilled individuals.

It was a busy time on the east co Athletics in 2012. Hopefully, 2013 and will be busier than ever.

Train Hard, Stay Safe.

Author: Sgt. John Riddle, JKD Athle tion’s Senior Law Enforcement Inst

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train. Neither the location nor the ra for long. Once the first session start was so engulfed by Sifu's teaching th all about it. This was the beginning for many, a life changing experienc rare group because almost everyon had previous martial arts experien The house overlooks the Colorado river and is majority were students of JKD. Havi full of trees and wildlife making it the ideal place we did prompted Sifu to go much m to unwind and connect with nature. The entire than I was expecting. area had been dealing with the worst drought in We spent the majority of the time over 40 years but of course the day before the seminar the rain came and didn't stop for several on edged weapons since it was an weapons certification days. It was a full on flood with water covering edged most of the roads. Initially we had planned on course, however we were able to training outside by the river, but once the rain go into striking, trapping, takecame we moved the training session to our self downs, Jiu-Jitsu, Kino Mutai, and of made saloon on the property. I'm not sure if it's course our daily dose of Action taboo or genius to hold a martial arts seminar in- Strength. side of a bar but it kept us dry.

Sifu introduced everyone to the Even with the flood, we still had over twenty gada, as well as body weight exerpeople brave the weather and show up ready to cises. The training was incredible

In February of 2012, we had the honor of hosting a seminar with Sifu Singh at my family's ranch house near Lane City, Texas. It is several miles of dirt roads though thick woods to get to the lodge but once you arrive it is a peaceful getaway.

ain mattered ted everyone hat we forgot of, what was ce. We had a ne who came nce and the ng the crowd more in-depth

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and everyone agreed it was without a doubt the best seminar they had ever been too. My students also mentioned it was nice to see someone throwing me around for once. The excitement didn't end after the training was done. Many of the attendees stayed around and hung out. We watched Bruce Lee movies and talked about martial arts.

brought out her guitar and put on an acoustic show. The final day of training ended with another great session, pictures, certificates, and one of my students, Gunnar Davis, was promoted to Apprentice Instructor in PFS.

For me it was like a dream come true to have Sifu teach at my place. And I was so glad that my students finally got to meet him. The whole The second night brought on some entertain- experience is something that my students and I ment with one will never forget. of my students Author: Clay Pratka putting on a show by spin- JKD is not just mixing arts, what do we ning fire and take from each breath. another showing off his dance moves.

Beverly also

Warrior’s Way Seminar

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WARRIOR’SWAY September 2012 - The Warrior’s Way Retreat took place in Hawaii during the last week of September 2012. Under the direction of Sifu Harinder Singh, we experienced an unpretentious and laid back escape of the ordinary to the wonders of the tropics in an unforgettable time of rediscovery of natural wonder and release of the inner spirit. Sifu Singh provided the tools that one needs to capture the willingness and desire to step out of your comfort zone and reconnect with one’s self.

Over the course of five days we explored paradise with the most unforgettable adventures and cultural experiences as we hiked up mountains, body surfed along the sandy shores among the islanders, kayaked in the ocean to a remote island, dove off a 25 foot cliff, and swam among the sharks dropped in the middle of the Pacific Ocean in a cage. Each morning began with eating fresh fruit from stands on the side of the road as we traveled to various remote locations capturing the breath, feeling the sensations within our body, and developing the process of letting go all

through the practice of T’ai Chi. Peac at the foot of a mountain on the groun dhist Temple as we practiced movin tion.

As we trained within the ocean sho oped the needed skills to form w bound as the waves crashed pushi This type of training forced us to be tr while focusing on breathing and con energy. This process taught how to b ent moment in order to have a great managing emotions as stress level is while at the same time developing at essary to survive any type of situatio

Daily challenges were reached as the deeper more subtle aspects th body training through a core bas called Action Strength. A daily 15 min that emphasizes personal exploration ancing one’s energy with the use of body weight drills and the Gada, king

This unique experience captured powerful personal development in order to live life with flexibility and balance by utilizing the tools learned.

Within this intimate group there was a lot of laughing, visits to interesting destinations, as well as ore we develjewels off the beaten path, personal empowerwithout being ment and enjoying delicious Hawaiian food. We ng us about. returned home not ruly like water only with magnificent nservation of memories but also e in the presthe mind-set of being ter degree of rather than just s heightened doing. ttributes necon.

Author:

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The Damini Project Launc

The Damini Project is a joint venture of the ASSERT Empowerment and Self Defense, Jeet Kune Do Athletic Association and Progressive Self Defense Systems, created to provide free self defense and empowerment workshops, seminars, and courses around the world. The Project has one guiding goal: To put an end to the current Rape Culture attitudes that result in violence against, sexual assault, and victimization of women, men, and children throughout the globe.

The rape resulted in her death, two in a Singapore hospital. Because India require that the victim’s na undisclosed unless thereis express from the victim or thevictim’s family of death, the Media reported the crim ing her Damini, which means “lightin Upon learning of the crime, thousan bers of the community began prote the country, demanding justice for changes in the laws of the countr better protections against such crim

Unfortunately, Damini’s story is bu too many millions that take place The Project is dediglobe every year. This is the result cated to the memory of that still devalues human rights, view Jyoti Singh Pandey, the ers and sisters as objects to be own victim of a brutal nipulated, and where personal inse gang rape in expressed through the victimizati Delhi, India around us. The Damini Project aim on Decemthat perception through education a ber 16th, covery. We believe that, once we fi 2012. strength, two things happen: We remember that we are worth and,

By rediscovering our self confide come less likely to abuse those aro

For more information or to particip visit the official website: www.TheDaminiProject.c

ches

o weeks later, the laws in ame remain s permission y in the case me nicknaming� in Hindi. nds of memesting across Damini and y to provide mes.

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ence, we beund us.

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2013 TRAINING SCHEDULE Members Only Weekend Intensive Orange County, CA

Feb 22-23, 2013:

Texas JKDAA Retreat : El Campo, TX

March 22-24, 2013:

April 15-20, 2013: April 27-28, 2013:

ILEETA – ILEETA Members Only Chicago, IL Members Only Weekend Intensive Sunnyvale, CA JKDAA 4 Day East Coast Retreat Boca Raton, FL

May 31-June 3, 2013:

June 29-30, 2013:

Members Only Weekend Intensive Sunnyvale, California

July 12-14, 2013:

JKDAA Calgary Stampede Retreat Calgary, Canada

July 26-28, 2013:

Action Strength Level 1 Certification Sunnyvale, CA

August 24-25, 2013:

Members Only Weekend Intensive Orange County, CA

September 20-22, 2013:

October : 19-20, 2013: October 26-27, 2013:

JKDAA West Coast Retreat San Francisco, CA

Members Only Weekend Intensive Sunnyvale, CA

JKDAA Hawaii Retreat Oahu, Hawaii

November, 2013:

To Be Announced

December, 2013:

To Be Announced