On Saturday the 20th February Shelley went along to the Kung Fu School based in Spindle Way, Crawley to see the Chinese perform.
A large number of people turned out to watch this truly wonderful event. A troupe of professional performers sent by the Chinese government came to celebrate The Kung Fu School being awarded the title of “Confucius Institute Classroom”… the Confucius Institute represents the Chinese government for promoting Chinese health, wellbeing & culture. The Kung Fu School is the only martial arts school in the world to receive this title. “It’s due our professionalism, knowledge and constant focus on developing & moving forward” says Master Paul Hawkes, Chief Instructor.
Paul went on to say “I really enjoyed the afternoon. It was so rewarding watching everyone enjoying themselves so much. It puts a smile on my face just thinking about it. That’s what I dreamt of when I pictured my Kung Fu School, a safe, friendly, professional martial arts school for the whole of the family to enjoy. I feel that we are on the right road, however there’s still plenty of room for improvement”.
Lots of people came to see this amazing event
The day was full of entertainment, dance from the Confucius Institute and some of the young Kung Fu School members. Also present to introduce each performance was Lara Martin, Project Manager for the Confucius Institute based in London South Bank University. Lara told us “it is a privilege to be here and we are very proud of Paul and his staffs achievement with the award. It’s great to see so many people here for this event”.
Lara Martin - Project Manager Confucius Institute
Mayor Brenda Burgess and Councillor Bob Burgess also attended this monumental occassion. Mayor Burgess and Councillor Burgess quite happily interacted with the proceedings, even taking part in some of the challenges set by Lara, which included showing how to use the fans and some very difficult handkerchief twirling and much more. Mayor Brenda Burgess told us “this is a wonderful event and we commend Paul and his staff for their achievement of being awarded the Confucius award”.
(L-R) Councillor Bob Burgess, Master Paul Hawkes and Mayor Brenda Burgess
Anita Parker of Crawley has a young son, Callum, who attends the Kung Fu School. Anita told us “Callum, who is six, has balance problems which he was getting physio for. Then I heard about the school and thought it might be a good thing for Callum. After only twelve weeks Callum’s balance has dramatically improved. I have even noticed a change in Callum’s attitude and school work, which is great. I would recommend the Kung Fu School to anyone”.
Callum and Mum, Anita Parker
Paul said they have lots planned for 2010 so we look forward to keeping you abreast of all forthcoming events.
Crawley Happy Times would to say a big well done to all involved in this truly spectacular event 
Did you attend this event? Please feel free to comment below.
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Thanks Shelley, a lovely report. It was really nice to see you, you’re very welcome at all of our events. I’ll keep you posted of our plans.
I’ve been invited to teach at the opening Nike Sponsored event at the Lilian Baylis School where I’ll be taking mini workshops for 45 minutes from 9.00 – 3.15. Apparently a number of MP’s, sporting celebrities and the TV will be there. It should keep me on my toes
Best wishes,
Paul
[...] Sifu Paul Hawkes invited Crawley Happy Times to their recent Chinese Day. The school is always well attended on such events, as it was last year when the ex-Mayor Brenda Burgess experienced the entertainment for herself. You can read this article here. [...]