Lam Cho came from
Pan Chao in Guangshou. An orphan, he was adopted and raised
by his uncle, Lam Sai Wing. When his uncle went to Hong Kong,
he went with him to learn martial arts. He was blessed with
quick arms, a strong body, and superior physical dexterity.
His uncle loved him as his own son, and taught him in the authentic
martial arts tradition. He was highly intelligent, and quick
to understand all the different styles of kung fu. Throughout
his twenty years with his teacher, he accumulated vast experience
in kung fu and the art of Chinese medicine. By virtue of his
medical expertise, he helped thousands of people. As a young
man, he was already helping his Sifu in teaching at the Southern
Martial Arts Association and eventually set up his own kung
fu studio. His skill was so well known, that people thoughout
the South referred to him as Sifu even as a young man. He set
up another studio in Kowloon, where thousands of students trained.
His closest students set up studios to teach as well; thus,
those who had his teaching spread across Hong Kong and Guangzhou,
and the Hung Gar style became a shining example of excellence
in martial arts. Some of Lam Cho's more notable students include
Chan Hon Chung, Wong Lee, Chiu Kau, Tang Kwok Wah, Kwong Tit
Fu, Lee Yat Ming, Wong Yiu Ching, and Kwong Buck Sam. All of
them have opened up Kung Fu schools of great renown. Grandmaster
Lam was well respected and was invited to give demonstrations
for the Navy and Army. Both Chinese and foreigners complimented
his performance, and his photo was soon appearing in London
newspapers. The school of martial arts spread throughout the
globe, enhancing the reputation of the Lam family and the Hung
Gar style. Grandmaster Lam traveled far and wide, and never
tired of teaching the style his Sifu taught him. He was especially
happy and willing to help newcomers to the art. Many of the
students that he trained went on to develop great reputations
for themselves. All were grateful for his noble deeds, but grandmaster
Lam remained humble and peaceful, and was therefore well respected.
When the Japanese invaded Hong Kong, grandmaster Lam's studio
burned down, and fighting broke out all across the city. Grandmaster
Lam helped maintain the peace and aided the people in their
suffering, and his deeds are still remembered to this day. When
Hong Kong fell, the Japanese forces went looking for grandmaster
Lam, so he returned in secrecy to his village. When the people
of his village heard of his return, they immediately entreated
him to teach martial arts. Finally, after Hong Kong was liberated,
he returned to Hong Kong and set up his studio. He taught, gave
medical care, and served as national martial arts consultant
for various unions and workers associations. His medical skill
was superb, and his principles were especially admirable; he
did not take more from the rich, but nonetheless reduced his
fees for the poor, to the point of providing free service and
medicine. He was compassionate and generous. He accomplished
a great deal in his youth, and still enjoys researching and
discussing medicine and martial arts every day. The future still
holds much in store for grandmaster Lam. His eldest son, Lam
Chun Fai, now carries on his Hung Gar teaching.