MEET THE BAK MEI TEAM

The Bak Mei Vancouver Kung Fu & Lion Dance Team is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich traditions of Bak Mei Kung Fu, accompanied by the dynamics of traditional and modern lion dance in Vancouver since 1972. Our team proudly embodies discipline, respect, and perseverance through rigorous training in both Kung Fu and Lion Dance. Whether on stage, in competition, or in the community, we bring energy, culture, and unity to life.

Our Bak Mei team is more than a group of martial artists — we’re a family. United through years of training, shared challenges, and countless performances/experiences, our members shine through with true harmony, teamwork, and spirit; a real bond we’ve built together. Together, we show that discipline and fun can thrive hand in hand. Our goal is to also carry on the teachings of these principles to our next generations.

We currently have the 7th, 8th generations of disciples in our club, and are training the upcoming 9th generation of disciples. Headshots taken by: VicGaoGraphy and Xin Yu Photography

8th GENERATION BAK MEI MASTERS

In Vancouver, the Bak Mei Kung Fu lineage has reached its 8th generation of masters, represented by Master Andy Chow (周達基), Master Dennis Tan (譚新成) and Lion Dance Master Jason Leung (梁耀輝).

This 8th-generation lineage traces its roots through the teachings, guidance, and training by their 7th-generation Master Wilkie Wu, and by their late 6th-generation Grandmaster Yip Chi Sum in Vancouver and in Hong Kong, preserving the authentic principles and traditions of Bak Mei kung fu and lion dance.

Andy Chow 周達基師傅

8th Generation Master/ Martial Arts Director

Andy began his martial arts journey at the age of nine with Tae Kwon Do; training under Master Lim at DT Lim’s Tae Kwon-Do Academy in Vancouver. His dedication and discipline led him to earn his 2nd Dan black belt, a milestone that set the foundation for a lifelong pursuit of martial excellence.

Seeking deeper understanding of traditional Chinese martial arts, Andy expanded his training to include Chen-style Taijiquan under Master Li Rong and the rare and powerful art of Bak Mei under Sifu Wilkie Wu. By nineteen, he had developed a refined understanding of Bak Mei and began teaching at Hastings Community Center. His classes later moved to Vancouver’s historic Chinatown, where he continued to refine both his teaching and personal practice.

In 2004, Andy represented Canada at the First World Traditional Wushu Festival in Zhengzhou, China, competing in both Empty-Hand and Weapon Forms on the international stage. Over the years, he has earned recognition at home as well, winning local Tae Kwon Do sparring competitions and earning Grand Champion titles in regional Wushu competitions.

Today, Andy remains dedicated to preserving and sharing the art of Bak Mei in Vancouver. Through his continued teaching, he aims to pass on not just technique, but the cultural heritage, discipline, and spirit of traditional kung fu to the next generation.

Dennis Tan 譚新成師傅

8th Generation Master/ Martial Arts Assistant Director

Dennis began his martial arts journey at the age of 11, training in Tai Chi at Minoru Park in Richmond, BC. At 13, he was introduced to Bak Mei Kung Fu through a family friend. Since then, Dennis has remained deeply committed to preserving the Bak Mei style and the teachings passed down to him by Sifu Wilkie Wu.

Since joining the club, Dennis has dedicated himself fully to the art and to the development of his practitioners by instructing students across varying age groups. His teaching approach emphasizes on practical application, strong foundational training, and clear breakdowns of advanced techniques. Through his mentorship, Dennis strives to cultivate not only technical skill, but also confidence, respect for tradition, and a deep understanding of the principles that define Bak Mei Kung Fu.

Beyond general instruction, Dennis serves as the Head Instructor of Bak Mei Kung Fu’s competition team. Under his guidance, the team has consistently achieved outstanding results, winning numerous gold medals and Grand Champions at local Vancouver competitions. This success is further supported by Dennis’s own competitive achievements, including multiple first-place finishes across events in both Canada and the United States which continues to inform and strengthen his approach to coaching and mentorship.

Jason (Jay) Leung 梁耀輝舞獅師傅

8th Generation Lion Dance Master/ Lion Dance Director

Jason began his lion dance journey in 1995 with the Yin Ping Athletic Association in Chinatown Vancouver, and where he continues to train and refine his craft to this day. Originally rooted in the traditional Fut San styled lion dance, he further broadened his expertise in 2023 by studying modern Hok San styled lion dance under mentors and masters from around the world. This expanded training has further deepening his understanding, appreciation and passion of the cultural and technical foundations of the art.

Driven by passion and purpose, Jason is committed to promoting, protecting, and preserving lion dance, so that its rich traditions can be passed on to future generations. He also strives to make a meaningful impact within the lion dance community (both locally and globally) by sharing knowledge, inspiring others, contributing to the art’s continued evolution and personal excellence.

On a personal level, Jason aspires to compete at the prestigious Genting World Lion Dance Championship in Genting, Malaysia — widely regarded as the pinnacle of lion dance competitions and often referred to as the “Olympics of Lion Dance.” He hopes to one day be a part and represent team Canada, marking a personal milestone that reflects both his unwavering dedication and his lifelong love for the sport.

8th GENERATION BAK MEI SENIOR INSTRUCTORS

Alongside with the 8th generation masters, our current active 8th Generation Senior Instructors also carry the pledge and the legacy of Bak Mei kung fu and lion dance through the guidance and training of our 7th-generation Master Wilkie Wu and our late 6th-generation Grandmaster Yip Chi Sum as well.

Some of these instructors earned numerous awards in martial arts competitions, locally and internationally, and performed at several prestigious events in both lion dance and kung fu.

Through ongoing training, mentorship, and community leadership, their dedication ensures that the art of Bak Mei and lion dance continues to prosper, inspiring the next generation while preserving its rich cultural heritage — ensuring that the lineage continues to thrive in its purest form.