Edney Griffiths - Bournemouth
Life before Joining "Unified Theory Wing-Chun" (UTWC)
I spent much of my early childhood years watching martial arts movies, in particular, movie stars such as Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris. This led to a development of a keen fascination with Kung-Fu. In my teens, with enough pocket money, I attended my first Wing-Chun school locally. I was fascinated with the Chi-Sao exercise and the traditional Wing-Chun forms as I observed the senior students taking part in them. However, being a beginner, it seemed a long way away.
A few months later, a close friend suggested I try out UTWC. I have never looked back since.
The first year at Unified Theory Wing-Chun
My first impressions of Sifu Raymond’s teaching style were his emphasis on discipline and attention to detail. He is extremely knowledgeable on both the practical and philosophical aspects of Wing Chun (due in part to his education from Grand master Simon Lau but mostly through his self education and personal development) and has a captivating method of breaking down complicated theories and concepts.
The first year was very challenging as I was faced with a few obstacles:
• Becoming aware of and managing the self-limiting inner voice of the ego.
• Getting to grips with the key Wing-Chun concepts and their applications.
• Understanding the UTWC philosophy.
• Using Wing-Chun concepts and applications against senior students during sparring sessions.
• Dealing with failure… repeatedly.
Relating the UTWC to life
At the end of training sessions over the years, we have spent many hours discussing how key concepts studied during sessions related to aspects of life such as health, wealth and relationships. We often shared how we had applied such concepts during the previous week and the often successful results achieved. I can honestly say that much of the success I enjoy today can be attributed to Raymond and his teachings.
The journey to Nevada
As I embark on my journey to Nevada, my Wing-Chun practice forms a central part of my weekly routine and I often draw upon some of the key lessons that I have learnt over the years at UTWC.
Ed's Testimonial