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On 21st June 2002, we celebrated Grand Master Leo Sebregts Fiftieth Year in the Martial Arts, Here are some memories: |
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Phyllis Burger
It was with great pleasure that I attended this gala dinner, celebrating, not only the 50th anniversary of Grandmaster Leo Sebregts' illustrious career in the Chinese Martial Arts, but also his 57th birthday. Once all the guests were seated, the students of Sifu Bruce and Sifu Frank, the Grandmaster's sons, presented us with an exhibition of Tai chi and Kung fu that was breathtakingly beautiful and at the same time very exciting to watch. Grandmaster Leo's daughter Si Jeh Melissa performed with the group showing that she also, is highly accomplished and artistic.
I had never attended an exhibition of this nature before and I found it both absorbing and fascinating. It was wonderful to see the precision, strength and concentration of these students, many of whom are also teachers of this art in its different forms. I found the Qi Gong movements were like watching a dream of fluid movements of control and breathing, that seemed effortless, and the choreographed fighting sequences and exhibitions of sword and other weapons were exciting and brilliantly executed. In fact I could hardly believe that I was in the same room as these fighters. They were powerful, yet dignified and showed a deep respect towards each other.
This, in itself, is a tribute to Grandmaster Leo's incredible achievement of creating a powerful, advanced and excellent standard of the Chinese Martial Arts in South Africa. This standard has been acknowledged internationally for its high standards and achievements and has also been passed on to his family. These skills and traditions are and will be of tremendous benefit to all South Africans participating in this art in the future.
After the demonstrations We had the privilege of learning how Grandmaster Leo's life developed, starting in Belgium and ending in this country. His sons gave us anecdotes accompanied by a slideshow, showing various achievements and stages both in Grand Master Leo Sebregts and the Shaolin Martial Arts Center's history. For me the most important message that came through was that when you have determination and the will to succeed you can achieve, even against all odds, and make your own life and those of others around you successful and worthwhile.
Keith Homan
The 21st June 2002 was an important day for all students. Attending the celebration dinner for Si-Gung was a turning point for many. To see the achievements of one individual through sheer commitment and dedication inspired me to strive towards reaching my unreachable limits. Although we train hard under the teachings and wisdom of Grand Master Leo Sebregts, for myself the benefits far outweighs the agony accompanying the training. After years of hard training we were finally offered the opportunity and honour to display the results for Grand Master Leo Sebregts on the evening of the 21st.
As the evening began, a million and one thoughts rushed through my head. Everything had to be perfect. Si-Fu Bruce and Si-Fu Frank gave a few last words of advice and encouragement before the demonstrations began. All the students with pride performed their demonstrations for Grand Master Leo Sebregts, from the very beginner forms up to the very advanced forms demonstrated by Si-Bah Chris from Benoni. Standing there waiting for my name to be called was nerve wrecking. As I was called up all worries left my head. I knew all I had to do was concentrate on showing my adminiration and gratitude. When we had finished the demonstrations I knew that I had done my best.
To be part of the demonstration team is a great honour and responsibility. We practiced every spare moment afforded us. The displays from the most junior to the most senior were arranged purely to show our appreciation for all the wisdom and teaching that Grand Master Leo Sebregts has shown us over the years. I am sure I can speak for all of the students from the demonstration team and say: "We thank you Si-Gung for all your support and understanding. We will not hesitate should you call on us to do another demonstration."
Jackie Gray
The Birchwood executive Hotel, Benoni was the setting for the Golden anniversary of Grand Master Leo Sebregts commitment to Chinese Martial Arts. The prestigious affair began at 6:30 in one of the elegant ballrooms at the hotel. A lot of effort had gone into the organization of this event. Every detail has been carefully planned and executed. The table decorations, for example, consisted of miniature Zen Garden and chocolates in hand painted Chinese boxes.
Members of the Demo team arrived first, wanting to run through their sequences and assess the available space. The evening formally began with the arrival of guests to the accompaniment of music. This was followed by brief welcome by SiFu Bruce.
Salmon starters were served just before the demo team went into action. I saw many a person so caught up in the magic that these starters were sadly ignored. Although the demonstrations were seemingly effortless a lot of hard work and dedication went into achieving perfection. At their final practice SiFu Bruce reminded the Demo team that the goal of the demonstrations were to show Grand Master Leo Sebregts their appreciation and gratitude for all he has taught them. That perfection only comes through constant daily practice and that Martial Arts are a way of life, not a part time hobby. Demonstrations that were not executed to perfection were scratched of the list and only the most dedicated students were allowed to perform.
After this exciting event we moved on to the feast! And what a feast! Mouthwatering aromas had been wafting subtly about the room during the demos and no-one was disappointed. I pity anyone who missed this night. It was a real treat.
After a thoroughly satisfying spread, SiFu Frank had the lights dimmed and delivered a brief overview of SiGungs life and achievements - aided by some fascinating Visuals, occasionally skipping past those showing himself in embarrassing scenes. It was a real eye opener. GrandMaster Leo Sebregts brought Kung Fu to South Africa,enduring many trials along the way, surpassing numerous difficulties. We learned about his triumphs, life-long goals and ceaseless dedication to promoting Chinese Martial Arts. It was truly moving!
After a few words from SiFu Bruce, and the reading of congratulations from around the globe, tantalizing deserts were served after which SiFus delivered appropriate thanks. Flowers were given to Grand Master Leo Sebregts' wife Barbara, acknowledging the ceaseless, behind the scene, dedication she too has contributed towards the Martial Arts. We are truly lucky to be taught by such a great Master, and he is truly lucky to be encouraged by such a supporting family.
Representatives of each branch of the Shaolin Martial arts Center now approached the main table where Grand Master Leo Sebregts was sitting with his family. Carefully chosen gifts, were presented and were gracefully accepted.
SiBah Chris who has been practicing Kung Fu within the Shaolin Martial Arts center for the last 14 years, then gave a warm speech of thanks to Grand Master Leo Sebregts. He teasingly remembered Grand Master Leo Sebregts telling him that he had extremely weak legs when he first started, but that he should never stop trying. He assured everyone he would be with us for next fifty years.
Grand Master Leo Sebregts then spoke, thanking everybody, especially SiFu Gary, Head of the Lion dancing team, South Africa, for making an effort to be there.
Dancing till early hours of morning rounded off a perfect evening. Grand Master Leo Sebregts and his wife Barbara showed the young ones that they know, not only how to work hard, but also how to have fun!
Thank you, for all that worked so hard to make this such a memorable evening. It was a once in a lifetime experience and we all wish Grand Master Leo Sebregts many more years of prosperity and achievement.
To quote Grand Master Leo Sebregts. "I really enjoy it. I love it. It is my life"