Having read about the arts of Shaolin Kung Fu and wanting to start some type of training Robert began researching different types of martial arts.  Following several hours of reading in local libraries and online Robert found Sifu Paul Burkinshaw's 'Shaolin Fist Chinese Boxing Association'.  Robert contacted Sifu Paul Burkinshaw and began attending classes in Nuneaton and Bedworth on Tuesday and Thursday nights.  Robert chose to train with Sifu Paul Burkinshaw as he could offer a very traditional and complete family system of kung fu coupled with a friendly environment. 

Following Robert's first 3 months of training he was put forward for his first grading, however, just weeks prior to the grading Sifu Paul Burkinshaw was involved in a horrific traffic accident.  Robert completed and passed his first grade under Master John Holden whilst Sifu Paul Burkinshaw was in a 5 week coma.  It was a difficult time as few of the students and instructors were quite sure whether Sifu Paul would pull through and if he did brain damage or other complications seemed likely.  Thankfully, in a demonstration of his indominable spirit Sifu Paul Burkinshaw not only regained consiousness but also managed to recover himself to full fitness (much to the surprise of many doctors and medical professionals).

Robert continued his training under Sifu Paul and began entering Club and National competitions achieving notable success in Sparring and Traditional Forms events.  Robert also attended numerous seminars that SIfu Paul organised including Monk Spade, Chi Gung, Double Daggers, Twin Axes, Iron Rod, Horse Bench and others.

Robert Buckler performing Kam Kong Fist at BCCMA National Championships 2009

Robert attended many B.C.C.M.A. coaching courses and has achieved level 2 standard in this area.  In 2003 Sifu Paul Burkinshaw invited Robert to become an Inner Chamber Disicple of the association as recognition of Robert's dedication to the club.  The invitation was graciously accepted by Robert and cemented in a ceremony in late 2003.  In August 2005 Robert achieved his Black Sash grade following a grueling 9 hour grading with Sifu Paul Burkinshaw.   

 

Sifu Paul Burkinshaw awarding Robert Buckler with his Black Sash certificate.

 

In 2005 Robert travelled to China with Sifu Paul Burkinshaw and many of the Association's students.  Whilst in China Robert trained with Master Chen Lie as well as visiting the Shaolin Temple in Honan, the Great Wall, the Forbidden City and numerous other locations.

In 2006 Sifu Paul Burkinshaw and Robert travelled to Mong Kok, Hong Kong to meet and train with students of GM Wong Cheung's Black Tiger Association.  Following months of research Sifu Paul and Robert met with Eric Tsai at GM Wong Cheung's Bute Street Home and Gym (now sadly closed).  Whilst in Mong Kok Sifu Paul and Robert reaffirmed the association's links to this rare Black Tiger System.  It is believed that Master Bob Johnson trained with GM Wong Cheung in Hong Kong and that the core of Sil Lum Kune is based on the tiger techniques of GM Wong Cheung.

Robert Buckler & Eric Tsai at GM Wong Cheung's Gym
Bute Street, Mong Kok, Hong Kong


Robert and Sifu Paul Burkinshaw - Victoria Peak, Hong Kong, 2006

In 2007 Sifu Paul Burkinshaw and Robert travelled to El Paso, Texas in the USA to meet and train with Sil Lum Hark Fu practioner Sifu Jerry Davis and his teacher, Eric Wu who orginally trained with GM Wong Cheung in Hong Kong before relocating to the US.  Whilst in El Paso Sifu Paul and Robert trained in various Black Tiger conditioning techniques as well as the 2 Man and Cane forms.  

 

In January 2010 Robert was awarded his 1st Degree Black Sash, and later that year was presented with a traditional trophy for ten years training, commitment and  dedication to the association.

Sifu Paul Burkinshaw Presenting Robert with his 10 Year Training Award December 2010

 

Robert Buckler Qualifications and Achievements

Sil Lum Kune Black Sash Awarded August 2005

B.C.C.M.A. National Coach Level 2

Sil Lum Kune National Coach

B.C.C.M.A. British Championships Gold Medal Winner 2002

B.C.C.M.A. British Championships Gold Medal Winner 2003

B.C.C.M.A. British Championships Gold Medal Winner 2004

B.C.C.M.A. British Championships Bronze Medal Winner 2005

B.C.C.M.A. British Championships Gold Medal Winner 2007

Amateur Martial Arts Association Insured

B.C.C.M.A. Public Liability Insured

LA 2010 - At Bruce Lee's Hollywood Star