Master Yao Zongxun (1917-1985)
Yao Zongxun was the student of the well-known Beijing martial
artist Hong Lianshun, until Hong had a match with Wang Xiangzhai
when Yao was only nineteen. Hong was defeated, and on this occasion
both teacher and student became Wang¡¯s disciples. More
Yao had uncommon stamina and spirit, after overcoming hard training
with his Master Wang Xiangzhai, he eventually began to replace
Wang Xiangzhai for challenges taking place in Beijing: contributing
to propagate the legend of undefeatable Da Cheng Quan. In 1941
he received the title of ¡°Ji Xian¡± (Heir of Xian) from Wang Xiangzhai
himself, and confirmed in all his challenge his reputation of
second generation Head Master of Yiquan(Yi Chuan).
Later during the Cultural Revolution in China, Yao Zongxun had
to move in a rural area near Beijing, called Changping, in a farming
village, even in these harsh conditions, Yao never neglected his
training and research on martial arts.
After the Cultural Revolution Yao returned to Beijing, and start
slowly to spread the art of Yiquan(Yi Chuan).
In 1984 he established the Beijing Yi Quan(Yi Chuan) Martial Arts
Association, and was the its first President.
In his later year he devoted his remaining time into writing activity.
As a graduated from Beijing University in Chinese Literature,
Master Yao described with a new light the principles of Yiquan(Yi
Chuan) and Martial Arts, but also including scientific references
in his works.
Among his most talented students, both his twin sons Yao Chengguang
and Yao Chengron, bu also Cui Ruibin.
Yiquan(Yi Chuan) great
master Yao Zongxun (1917-1985)
