Chase Skinner has shown a great deal of potential in her training for kickboxing and kata over the last few months and is always looking for new avenues of training which will stretch her. Sean Kinsella, who is the chief instructor of Sean Kinsella Martial Arts (SKMA) and teaches Chase and Stanley, ran a masterclass in Escrima Stick training from a Filipino martial art called Arnis / Kali on Sunday July 14 at Playden WI Hall.
Escrima sticks, also known as Kali or Arnis sticks, are weapons used in Filipino martial arts (FMA). These sticks are typically made of rattan, a durable and lightweight wood, and are about twenty-six to twenty-eight inches long. They are used in various forms of training, including drills, sparring, and self-defence techniques.
Escrima is deeply rooted in Filipino culture and history. It has evolved over centuries and has been influenced by various indigenous and foreign martial arts. Today, it is practised worldwide and has gained recognition for its effectiveness and practicality in self-defence.
Sean explained: “This martial art improves hand and eye co-ordination alongside an interesting history and the students were put through their paces in a two-hour session and worked extremely hard. My hopes are that the students will take what they have learned and add it into their training methods, thus strengthening their skills.”
Chase’s mother Sherry added: “Chase is very interested in learning more in the way of weapons’ training, especially Escrima sticks. In this day and age it is good for youngsters to know how to protect themselves in a non-combat way.
“On July 29 Chase along with others belonging to SKMA will attend a three-day summer school at Tilling Green Community Centre. She loves these classes and is always keen to give her all. We must remind ourselves that she is only ten and has the determination and commitment of someone much older.
“On September 22 in Eastbourne, Chase and other members will compete in an AM interclub competition. On September 29 she will attend a seminar with Wayne Otto, who is a nine times World and European champ and Guinness world-record holder. This is such a special honour and Chase is always enthusiastic and keen to learn new skills and help others following in her footsteps. She will be grading in the next month for her karate black belt – so lots of training ahead.”
Dean Gates, who attended the masterclass with his son, explained why he is working alongside him: “Stanley started his karate and kickboxing training just over three years ago. Since then he has entered a few competitive competitions and come away with a British silver medal for kickboxing in his under-25kg weight class.
“I have been a keen dad and have watched him training twice a week for three years. Eighteen months ago I also decided to start training in kickboxing so that I would have a better understanding of the sport and could help with extra training at home as he loves it so much.
“He now trains in the adult classes alongside me and it’s a really enjoyable father and son time we share together.”
These youngsters are always looking for sponsorship because these masterclasses can be costly and when they travel to competitions it requires extra funding. If you would like to be part of their journey please contact Sherry Skinner on sherryskinner7@gmail.com
Image Credits: Kt bruce .