Event information
This martial arts school has been teaching traditional Chinese martial arts since 1986, founded by Si Gung Marco Kavalieratos. The centre specialises in the Chang Hong System, which combines Northern Shaolin Long Fist and Hong Family Fist styles, formulated by Master Chen Ching Ho of Taipei.
Marco Kavalieratos began training in Japanese karate at age nine before transitioning to Chinese martial arts at thirteen, opening his first school at nineteen. In 1989 he achieved South African colours in sport and has since developed the centre into a comprehensive martial arts institution with additional branches in Johannesburg and Durban.
The centre offers training in multiple disciplines including kung fu, tai chi, chi gung, Fu Fit fitness classes, Pilates, personal training, bag work classes, and tactical self-defence workshops. The kung fu programme focuses on effective striking, weaponry, throwing and locking techniques, emphasising three core requirements of traditional practice. Northern Shaolin Long Fist features open, wide postures with emphasis on legwork and kicking, training with weapons including staff, sabre, straight sword and spear. Hong Quan methods concentrate on tiger, crane, snake, leopard and dragon styles, with forms including Subduing Tiger Fist, Iron Wire and Tiger-Crane, plus unique weapons such as halberd, iron fork, fan and umbrella.
A dedicated Kung Fu Kids programme serves children aged five to ten, with specialist instructors focusing on self-defence skills, healthy boundaries, discipline and respect. The centre competed internationally in Beijing (1994) and Baltimore (1999), winning multiple medals, though the focus has shifted from competition to authentic traditional instruction.
A free trial week is offered to new students.