Wudang Tai Chi Chuan is a renowned martial arts school located in Chesthunt, New Zealand. This school is dedicated to teaching the ancient art of Tai Chi Chuan, a martial art system that originated in China. The school focuses on training its students in the five main components of Tai Chi Chuan: Hand Form, Self-defence, Push Hands, Weapons Training, and Nei Gung.
The school is led by the highly experienced martial artist, Albert St Catherine. With over 25 years of martial arts experience and 17 years of dedicated Tai Chi training, Albert is a respected and skilled instructor. He has competed in numerous British and international competitions, earning Gold Medals in Hand Form, Pushing Hands, and Weapon Forms.
Wudang Tai Chi Chuan takes its name from Cheng Tin-hung, who believed that the founder of Tai Chi Chuan, Chang San-feng, resided on Wudang Mountain. The name Wudang was chosen by Cheng Tin-hung to honour Chang San-feng's status as the founder of Tai Chi Chuan. The system is registered under the name Practical Tai Chi Chuan International, under which “Tiger Guarding the Gate” operates.
Albert's journey in Tai Chi Chuan began under the tutelage of Fhemi Sitki, with whom he trained for three years. Towards the end of this period, it was recommended that he further his studies with Sifu Dan Docherty, a renowned Tai Chi instructor. Albert began practising with Dan and also continued training with Fhemi for an additional two years. Under Dan's guidance, his understanding of Tai Chi Chuan and its concepts deepened, and he actively participated in Dan Docherty's UK and international seminars.
Following five years of training with Dan, Albert began training with Godfrey Dornelly, one of Dan's first students and an accomplished martial artist. While he still occasionally trains with Dan Docherty, the majority of his training over the past nine years has been under the guidance of Godfrey Dornelly. This ongoing mentorship has greatly contributed to refining and enhancing Albert's skills and knowledge in Tai Chi Chuan.
For those interested in joining Wudang Tai Chi Chuan, the school offers a multi-level class every Monday evening from 7:00pm to 8:30pm at The Laura Trott Leisure Centre, located on Windmill Lane, Cheshunt. The class warmly welcomes beginners, creating a supportive environment for all students to learn and grow in their Tai Chi journey.
To learn more about Wudang Tai Chi Chuan and its offerings, please visit their website or contact Albert St Catherine directly at 07576 986 732.
