Derek Johnson started learning Jow Ga Kung Fu 周家功夫 in 1978 from his teacher the late Grandmaster Dean Chin ((Chan Yuk Juen 陳 沃 進)) in Washington D.C. Chinatown.  Sifu Johnson’s Grandmaster or Si Gung (師公) is the Chan Man Cheung (契爺) 陳萬祥 of Hong Kong.   Grandmaster Chan Man Cheung introduced him to his next teacher Kong Yu Choi  江譽財 of the Jow Biu Chinese Boxing Association Hong Kong  周彪國術聯誼會(香港), which became his second home for many years.  Sifu Johnson has been teaching kung fu, Sanda “Chinese Kickboxing”, and Lion Dance since 1991.  He also served his country as a United States Marine and Police Officer for 25 years with 27 yrs. Law Enforcement experience.  Now retired, he enjoys sharing his experiences with students.

 

Master Kong Yu Choi did not freely accept students during this time, but fortunately he accepted Derek Johnson as his pupil.  Master Kong was considered a “jewel” in his school due to his extensive and detailed knowledge of Jow Ga Kung Fu.  Derek traveled to Hong Kong each year from 2000-2008 sometimes twice a year for months learning from Master Kong Yu Choi until his teachers untimely death on May 10, 2009.  Derek immediately traveled to Hong Kong to attend the funeral and perform the rituals expected of a senior student.  During his teacher’s funeral service, one of the speakers nicknamed Derek “Loyal Heart” due to his dedication.   Master Kong’s own Sifu was Grand Master Hung Tai Wai, who graciously accepted Derek into their family.

 

Johnson Sifu 張大力師傅 is the Founder of the 美國周家功夫體育協會Jow Ga Kung Fu Athletic Association, which has members across the United States and abroad.  He continues conducting seminars around the U.S.

 

Tai Lik Sifu  大力師傅  has successfully promoted 5  tournaments known as the Jow Ga Five Tigers Kung Fu Championship 周家五虎傳統功夫大賽 in honor of the Jow Ga founders  Jow Lung周龍,  Jow Hip周協, Jow Biu 周彪, Jow Hoi 周海, Jow Tin 周田.