Master (Sifu) Minh-Hung Ly began his Kung Fu training at the age of 11 in 1978 in Saigon, Vietnam. Upon immigrating to Canada in the 1980s, he learned English, familiarized himself with the new culture, went to school, and established his career. To Sifu Ly, Canada's cultural diversity is what makes the country special.
Sifu Ly noticed that there were a number of good Kung Fu schools in Canada, offering both the northern and southern styles as either martial arts or martial sports. In 1999, he opened the Ottawa Traditional Shaolin Kung Fu Centre to contribute to Canada’s diverse martial arts community by sharing the knowledge gained from his Sifu, Grand Master Lam Minh Hao.
Providing a broader view of traditional, southern China tiger style Shaolin Kung Fu to those who have never seen the art before is Sifu Ly's goal. He also aims to give a greater sense of awareness to people seeking a traditional Kung Fu experience, and assist them with achieving an improved state of physical and emotional well-being.
Finally, Sifu Ly wishes to pass on his knowledge to a group of students who will carry on the tradition for generations to come, so that traditional tiger style Shaolin Kung Fu will continue to flourish in North America.
In addition to the Shaolin Kung Fu Centre, Sifu Ly has also taught customized self-defense programs. From 1995 to 1999 his company, Tarian Group, offered 3-hour courses to corporations such as the Investors Group, real estate companies, and provincial government offices. Sifu Ly taught the Self Protection Course for Men, and his student Ian Thomas held the Self Protection Course for Women.