Gin Foon Mark is the 5th-generation master of the Southern Praying Mantis system of Kung Fu. Master Mark's instruction began when he was just five years old. He is one of the few people alive who has directly experienced Kung Fu as it was taught in the monasteries of China, when they were still fountains of knowledge of the country's rich cultural heritage. In 1947, he was summoned to New York, where he met Sifu Lum Wing Fai, the 4th-generation master who in 1968 appointed him to teach the Southern Praying Mantis system. Since that time Master Mark has brought the healing benefits of this art to individuals of all ages and walks of life. The system is alive today largely through his efforts.
Master, teacher, artist Photographed by Tom Wallace
Master Gin Foon Mark was born in 1927 in Toyson, a village near Canton, China. His early training was under the supervision of his uncles and grandfather. One his uncles, a White Crane expert, was over 7 feet tall and weighed close to 300 pounds. Young Gin quickly learned that it was senseless to rely on muscular strength alone, so he began to study ancient forms that taught him sensitivity and turning his opponent's strength against him. At 15 years of age, he worked as a bodyguard for his uncle, who was a general in the Chinese army. No one suspected someone his age had such devastating skills.
In New York, Master Mark focused on teaching the younger members of Chinatown's trade associations. Shortly after being appointed the 5th-generation master of the Southern Praying Mantis system, Master Mark was invited to visit Minneapolis by a number of marital artists. He liked the area so much, he settled there the next year. You can read more about Master Mark, who is part of the Minnesota Cultural Treasure Program, at www.masterginfoonmark.com.
