YMAA, Pretoria

Corlius Birkill was introduced to the martial arts at age 8, practicing Karate for a few years. He then started his chinese martial arts training in 1984 at the age of 13. The first systems he studied were the southern division style, Wing Chun and a northern division style, Lune Whan Kune. His dedication in these disciplines led to him being awarded provincial colours in 1990, and then being invited to represent his country overseas. Due to his passion for the art Corlius Birkill decided to expand his knowledge which led to his first visit to Boston, USA in 1995. Here he started his intensive study of the following systems; the southern division style, White Crane (Bai He) and the northern division style Long Fist (Chang Chuan) as well as internal systems Tai Chi Chuan, and Baguazhang under the personal tuition of Dr. Yang Jwing Ming. Besides the different martial arts aspects Corlius Birkill has also learnt several qigong systems as well as healing arts such as Tui Na and Dian Xue massage from Dr. Yang. Since 1995 Mr. Birkill has visited Dr. Yang on a regular basis, furthering his studies and training. In March 2008 he completed the YMAA Shaolin Syllabus when he was awarded the rank of Instructor.