On September 1st, the 8th NTD World Chinese Traditional Martial Arts Competition entered its second day of the semi-finals in Waldwick, New Jersey, USA. 79 martial arts experts showcased their skills, gradually reaching their peak performance, with 51 players ultimately advancing to the finals.
This competition aims to uphold and promote the spirit of traditional martial arts, promote martial virtues, and revive the traditional Chinese culture. Participants have expressed that they have gained a lot from competing. This competition is not only about the rivalry in martial arts skills but also about exchanging and sharing the spirit of traditional martial arts, allowing martial virtues to shine in modern society.
Eike Opfermann from Germany, who has participated in NTD competitions for the third time, impressed the audience with his flawless performance of a set of Qimen Sword. He has overcome his initial stiffness during the preliminary rounds.
Opfermann emphasized that what he enjoys most about the NTD competition is the opportunity for mutual learning and exchange amidst the intense competition. He believes that focusing on virtues is the key to improvement in martial arts techniques.
The competition’s emphasis on martial virtues resonates with Opfermann as it embodies the essence of China’s “divine cultural heritage.” He noted that valuing virtues has subtly enhanced his movements and performance.
Opfermann encourages other martial arts enthusiasts to participate in the competition as it offers a unique and enriching experience that cannot be understood unless one experiences it firsthand.
Paul Huber from Austria, a first-time participant in the competition, mentioned that the event deepened his understanding of the essence behind each martial arts movement, leading him to cultivate a sense of calmness and resilience.
Huber realized the importance of maintaining a balance in life and not always striving for perfection, a shift in perspective he gained from the teachings at the competition. He learned that martial arts are primarily for personal growth and facing challenges with a composed mindset.
American participant Wang Guolong, in his second time joining the competition, expressed his observation of an increased presence of traditional martial artists in the event. He appreciated the competition’s focus on spiritual and moral values, creating an environment filled with positivity and harmony that benefitted everyone.
Guolong cited Confucius’ saying “each day is a new beginning” to illustrate his continuous progress through the dedicated preparation for the competition. He emphasized the significance of the competition in his ongoing development in martial arts skills.
Cai Changchang, a U.S. competitor, who received professional martial arts training, once believed that “Chinese Kung Fu” was a thing of the past. However, after encountering Chinese traditional martial arts, particularly through participating in the NTD competition, he was exposed to a wide array of martial arts styles that combined internal and external techniques, which reignited his belief in the essence of “Chinese Kung Fu.”
Changchang resonates with the traditional martial arts’ emphasis on martial virtues, equating it with the principle of “patience” in life, as depicted in the Chinese saying “gentlemen do not resort to violence.” He finds these principles useful in both his personal and professional life.
Changchang appreciated the friendly and joyful atmosphere of the NTD competition, where participants engage in mutual learning and exchange, motivating him to participate in future events.
Hailing from New York, Li Hongguang, in his second competition appearance, impressed with his powerful and steady performance of the Baguazhang style. He noted the increasing presence of younger participants in the competition, which deeply touched him.
Li expressed his gratitude towards NTD TV for its dedicated promotion of traditional martial arts, noting the remarkable efforts of individuals who passionately support and attend the competition regularly. He extended his appreciation to NTD, the judges, and all staff involved in organizing the event for their contributions.
Overall, the NTD World Chinese Traditional Martial Arts Competition serves as a platform for martial artists worldwide to showcase their skills, exchange experiences, and uphold the values of martial virtues, contributing to the preservation and proliferation of traditional Chinese culture.