An Italian CSL Wing Chun Kuen Weekend

Last weekend I had a truly unique experience.

I had the pleasure of hosting ten friends from England here in Trieste for two scorching hot days dedicated to Wing Chun Kuen, the sea, and wonderful Triestine food.

They arrived late on Friday night and, after a good night's sleep, we started Saturday morning with a generous, refreshing breakfast on the terrace, enjoying a beautiful view of the sea.

It was the perfect way to begin a weekend of training, friendship, and good company.

Shortly after breakfast, several of my Italian students arrived, and we began our training with Siu Nim Tao, our first form. Wearing shorts and bare-chested, we embraced the heat with smiles on our faces.

We then worked up an even bigger sweat with a long session on the focus pads. After all that hard work, we slowed things down with some Taiji breathing exercises before heading down to Barcola for a delicious lunch and a refreshing swim.

In the afternoon, we explored empty-hand fighting, focusing on the clinch and practical applications of Chi Sao, and finishing with hands-on Gor Sao training.

On Saturday evening, we met up at a local club to enjoy a few games of pool while watching a match from the FIFA Club World Cup - England versus Panama.

Sunday began with another hearty breakfast, followed by Siu Nim Tao and more breathing exercises.

Throughout the morning, we continued our work with the focus pads, the clinch, and Chi Sao, exploring the same ideas through new drills and applications.

Then it was back to Barcola for another great lunch and another swim before returning to the training terrace.

The afternoon was dedicated to boxing gloves, defensive drills, sparring exercises, and a series of intense but always friendly battles.

After well-earned showers, we brought the weekend to a close with a wonderful seafood dinner.

What an incredible weekend!

Training, friendship, the sea, fantastic food, and plenty of laughter—I couldn't have asked for more.

Thank you to everyone who came and made it so memorable. I am already looking forward to next time!

Mike Bark Sifu