Greek Shaolin Cultural Organization
少林希腊文化組织

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In a remarkable event for the global martial arts community, Master Derek Frearson—personal student of renowned masters Ou Rongju, Lun Gai, and Lee Kam Wing, and President of the International Taijiquan and Shaolin Wushu Association (ITSWA)—visited Greece with his esteemed team of closed-door disciples. The visit, hosted by Shifu Pantelias Antonios in collaboration with EPOS (Greek Cultural Organization Shaolin), was part of the highly anticipated International 7 Star Mantis Seminar. The event, held in Athens from September 21–22, brought together masters and students from various countries, making it a historic moment for traditional martial arts.

A Distinguished Lineage and Leadership

Master Derek Frearson’s martial arts journey stands out due to his personal tutelage under three legendary figures: Ou Rongju, Lun Gai, and Lee Kam Wing. His dedication to passing on their knowledge is reflected in the work of his closed-door disciples, including Sifu Allan Dickson, Paul Tennet, Wayne Pinto, Pavel Kozumplik, Richard Holborn, and David George. These highly skilled martial artists have followed in their master's footsteps, contributing to the preservation and dissemination of traditional Chinese martial arts.

Their visit to Greece aimed to bridge international martial arts communities while showcasing the technical mastery of Praying Mantis Kung Fu, specifically within the 7-Star Praying Mantis system. This system, known for its precise, fluid movements and effectiveness in combat, has been passed down through generations of masters and remains one of the most respected branches of Chinese martial arts.

Plum Blossom Form Demonstration

On Saturday, September 21st, at the Wu Yongchunquan Academy Club in Philadelphia, attendees had the opportunity to witness the expertise of Sifu Allan Dickson and Paul Tennet, who led a captivating demonstration of the "1st Path of the Plum Blossom" form. This form, known in Chinese as Qīxīng tángláng quán - méihuā tuǐ yīlù (七星螜螂拳 - 梅花腿一路), is an essential practice within the 7-Star Praying Mantis system. The form focuses on the Plum Blossom stances, emphasizing agility, fluidity, and the distinct use of footwork to maintain balance and execute powerful techniques. The precision and grace of the performance left the audience in awe, with martial artists and enthusiasts alike appreciating the depth of knowledge on display.

A Warm Welcome from Greek Martial Arts Leaders

The following day, Sunday, September 22nd, the ITSWA teachers visited the headquarters of the Greek Cultural Organization Shaolin, where they were warmly welcomed by its founder, Stavridis Iordanis, its General Director Katakalaios Dimitris and Masters Antoniou Efi, Stavridou Alexandra and Grapsa Markela. This visit marked a symbolic moment of unity between the international and Greek martial arts communities. Master Frearson and his team were received with great respect and hospitality, further strengthening the bonds between their respective organizations.

The Teaching of Mantis's Double Knives

Culminating the first phase of the seminar, martial artists from Greece, England, Scotland, Czech Republic, and South Africa had the unique opportunity to learn directly from Master Allan Dickson and Paul Tennet. The focus of this advanced lesson was Mandi’s Double Knives [Chin.: Tángláng shuāng bǐshǒu 螳螂双匕首]. The double knives technique, requiring a high level of skill and coordination, is an advanced weapon form within the 7-Star Praying Mantis style. It integrates fast, precise movements with offensive and defensive strategies, showcasing the deadly efficiency of traditional Chinese weaponry.

Master Dickson and Tennet provided detailed instruction, guiding participants through the nuances of wielding the double knives with accuracy and control. This rare and valuable lesson was met with immense enthusiasm, as the participants recognized the privilege of learning such a specialized skill directly from masters of the highest caliber.

A Legacy of Unity and Mastery

The seminar in Greece, organized through the efforts of Shifu Pantelias Antonios, was a resounding success, highlighting the shared passion for traditional Chinese martial arts across borders. Master Derek Frearson’s leadership and the expertise of his disciples brought a wealth of knowledge to a group of selected Greek martial artists, fostering a spirit of international cooperation and growth.

As the first leg of the seminar concluded in Athens, participants left with a deeper understanding of the Praying Mantis system and its application in both empty-hand and weapon forms. The event underscored the importance of preserving these ancient martial arts traditions while continuing to build global connections that transcend geographical and cultural boundaries.

With masters and participants from Greece, the UK, Scotland, Czech Republic, and South Africa, the International 7 Stars Mantis Seminar served as a platform for shared learning, friendship, and the pursuit of martial arts excellence. It set a high standard for future seminars, ensuring that the rich legacy of traditional martial arts remains alive and vibrant in the modern world.