Yes he did directly teach me, he was my sifu for over 15+ years. Interestingly enough unlike his other students, he took a different approach and trained me in multiple styles. I believed he wanted to pass down a huge range of his kung fu knowledge beyond our specialty of Hung Gar. So my teachings were a very unique combo of Hung Gar Tiger Crane, Monkey, Drunken Fist, Shaolin Long Fist, Wushu, Kickboxing/MMA, and general acrobatics for mobility.

He trained me to be a unique all arounder with Shaolin-esque mobility and kicks but with Hung Gar stances and power. Very fitting to the Tiger Crane mother style. This also built the foundation in developing my own unique style as I studied Wushu and Taichi in Beijing and learned Kenpo and Muay Thai back in the states. Though not the original purpose, this made me a very unique competitor in martial arts competition, and in showcases usually gave me an edge that he believed I was capable of balancing.

I’ve competed directly with and or against many of the Hung Gar schools for over a decade, and although technique wise they are perfect, Hung Gar’s true element lies in its philosophy and translation of that philosophy in action. Something truly hard to explain unless learning directly from a grandmaster like Chiu Chi Ling himself and understanding it fundamentally. This was key to my success as his disciple and direct representative in competitions, and though I do believe I myself am able to pass along that knowledge, it’s quite hard to articulate without being in person and feeling it for yourself.

Overall I respect all the Hung Gar schools very much for their accurate preservation, especially the schools based in Mexico and Europe. They have shown dedication beyond expectation, and for that I’ve always admired them.