BASIS students Alan M. and Zelin W. attended the 14th New England International Chinese Martial Arts Championship in Connecticut on Saturday, November 9th. Both students delivered outstanding performances, with Alan M. securing four gold medals and two silver medals, while Zelin W. earned six gold medals for the team. Reflecting on their achievements, Coach Master Rong commented, “This year’s competition yielded unexpectedly great results in such a short time.” This success is particularly notable as there was limited preparation time leading up to the competition, and it was the first time Zelin W. and Alan M. participated in this particular competition.
Wushu gymnastics is a competitive Chinese martial art form that combines traditional techniques like Shaolin Kung Fu, Tai Chi, and Wudang Quan. It is practiced through forms (Taolu) and as a combat sport (Sanda) and is officially governed by the International Wushu Federation. Although it is generally rooted in ancient traditions, it has evolved to include standardized routines and competitive formats that blend cultural heritage and modern athleticism.
Reflecting on the deeper values of Wushu, Alan M. commented, “I believe the biggest lesson (students) learn in this is perseverance, as you may have to practice a form hundreds of times even just to get a hold of it. But, in specific, I believe that respect and humility are traditional cultural values we pass on in Wushu.”
When asked about the most enjoyable aspects of Wushu gymnastics, Alan M. replies, “Every form of practice is a fun moment. It is fun to see these kids show their personalities with practice, for example, the powerful screams they let out during a pose or how they like to perform a certain move.”
Alan M. began his Wushu journey in 2023, inspired by the praise from parents and fellow students of instructor Master Rong. He was born in China before moving to America and joining the Wushu team in 2024. Similarly, Zelin W. started learning Wushu in the second grade in China and returned to the sport after relocating to America in 2023 and joining the Wushu Club in 2024. Both students have further developed their skills under the guidance of Master Rong, with Alan M. serving as an assistant coach and Zelin W. as an assistant teacher.
With over 17 years of experience in teaching, Master Rong began his teaching career in 2007 after his retirement as a Wushu athlete. He views Wushu as a multifaceted sport that enhances physical and mental health in terms of respect and morality. Master Rong remains optimistic about the future, hoping to see a growing interest in the sport and increased participation in competitions.
Zelin W. continues this sentiment, commenting, “Wushu is not only a sport; it is also something spiritual that is passed on from generation to generation.”
As both students continue to grow within the Wushu community, it is clear that the sport fosters physical strength and core values like community, respect, perseverance, and humility. The future of Wushu Gymnastics at BASIS Independent McLean looks bright, with dedicated students like Alan M. and Zelin W. showing their support and passion for Wushu Gymnastics and their cultural heritage.
