TCUGB Annual General Meeting Leeds - May 2004
Betty Sutherland
On 15th May 2004, the Tai Chi Union AGM was held in Leeds. Being friendly folk up here, it was decided to turn the meeting into a reunion and "showcase" some Tai Chi, an idea that was created by Gaynel and Colin Hamilton of the Yiheyuan Chinese Internal Martial Arts school. Although busy folk, they staged an event to be proud of. This was a chance to assemble a substantial number of Tai Chi players from across Yorkshire to indulge in our passion - Tai Chi.
The event got underway with John Rowland leading approximately 200 people through a traditional Qigong. Throughout the day there were several demonstrations showcasing the various styles being practiced in Yorkshire, I was very impressed with the quality and diversity. These included: Cheng Man Ching applications, Bagua, Chen sword form and Yiheyuan Master form. As a member of the Five Winds School of Tai Chi I was very proud to lead a team through Wudang hand and weapon forms as taught by Ian Cameron. I will take this opportunity to thank my students for working so hard during practice and "pulling off" a first rate demonstration.
We all enjoyed a talk and demonstration by Adam deForges from the Royal Armouries, his display of historic swordmanship was very informative and entertaining. Adam's name explains it all - lots of flourish and fun. A display of push hands and Tai Chi cane form (I could go on for ever). We were then "brought back to earth" with a lovely calming display of Tien Tshai Qigong by Paul Underhill. The most memorable demonstration, for me, was Master Liu Yong from Jiangsu of the British Chen Style Tai Chi College in Manchester. Master Yong gave a "jaw dropping" demonstration of relaxation, strength, focus and Martial Attitude. He went on to give an inspirational demonstration of push hands with Sue Johnson, I was very pleased to be part of the gathering and encouraged by the turn out. Watching the demonstrations made me aware of how important the Arts of Tai Chi and Qigong are to many lives. A quote from Gaynel Hamilton was: "The thing that stands out most in my mind about the event was the relaxed, warm and friendly atmosphere", (All proceeds from the day went to the Tai Chi Union).
After the day-long event, the business of the TCUGB took place.
I do have to say at this time, that I was surprised with the meagre attendance at the AGM, considering the turnout. From the 200 people at the demonstration only 12 attended the meeting. I do agree that becoming a member of the Union is a matter of personal choice, but I thought it a bit odd that the numbers were so low. The Committee had travelled from distant points of the UK for the AGM in Leeds for an audience of 12. When the voting for the committee took place, the "officers" didn't change, they just swopped roles. Perhaps this is because being a member of a committee is a thank-less task, or is it more that we just want to do Tai Chi, thanks. The members of the Committee unfortunately, didn't even manage time to watch the demonstrations, which was such a pity!!
Our Secretary announced an improved package for Associate Members which only he will know if this proves successful! Perhaps a census of opinion amongst existing members would allow the Union to develop a realistic package for all. For example I would like an affordable insurance deal.
The TCUGB has a good website and wealth of knowledge within its current members. I am as guilty as the next "man", when we say that the Union "doesn't do anything for us", what do we want? and how can we contribute. Is there an incentive to be a Committee member? Again there is a technical panel, these experts must have wisdom that would be of use to us ordinary players? Otherwise what is their purpose?
We are a large group of like-minded people, I feel that we must have a wealth of knowledge between us, for example: is there a Small Business Advisor out there? Could there be Regional talks on how to be more business, tax, and financially aware of how to run a Tai Chi class (and keep it running) I am sure it is out there, we could share it.