Gathering cane & stick Seminar 2025

Unlock Your Inner Strength: An Unprecedented Combat Cane & Irish Stick Fighting Seminar!

Are you ready to delve into the fascinating and effective world of combat cane and Irish stick fighting? Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn from three world-renowned masters in a unique 2-day (or 1-day) intensive seminar on October 25th and 26th!

We are thrilled to welcome:

• Hugo Vial (France): Bringing his distinct approach to cane fighting.
• James Stewart (United Kingdom): Sharing his expertise in the art of the Irish stick.
• Gary Hernandez (United States): Offering his specialized techniques in combat cane.

This is an unparalleled chance to experience three different perspectives and methodologies under one roof. Over two action-packed days, you'll learn specialized techniques designed to enhance your self-defense skills and deepen your understanding of these compelling martial arts.

But that's not all! Join us for a special dinner on Saturday evening, where you'll have the incredible opportunity to meet the masters in person, ask questions, and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

Limited Spots Available! With a maximum of only 30 participants, early registration is highly recommended.

Special Early Bird Discount! Register before June 30th to take advantage of a reduced fee.

Don't miss out! Registration closes on October 22nd. You also have the option to participate for just one day.

Last year's event was a resounding success – secure your place now for this exceptional learning experience!

Ready to take your skills to the next level?

For practical information and registration details, please contact us at: canefighters@yahoo.com

We look forward to welcoming you!

*Master Hugo Vial

In 1989, I discovered the fascinating world of martial arts and combat sports through Kung Fu "Choy Lee Fut." I began to learn bare-hand and weapon techniques, developing a mastery and discipline that led me to competition.

In the 1990s, eager to push my limits, I ventured into the world of Kickboxing. I earned my black belt there, affirming my technique and commitment to the discipline.

In 2000, destiny guided me to Krav Maga, a realistic self-defense martial art. I fully immersed myself in its techniques, earning my black belt and instructor certification. My thirst for knowledge drove me to perfect my handling of the telescopic baton and tonfa, thus becoming a security instructor.

In 2012, a new chapter opened with the Kali Escrima Balintawak style. I discovered the precision and fluidity of this Filipino martial art, obtaining my initiator level and participating in the martial arts festival alongside the France Balintawak Eskrima group. My exploration of Filipino martial arts continued with the learning of Panantukan, enriching my practice of bare-hand techniques.

In 2010, a decisive turning point occurred when I discovered cane defense through Canemasters. A contact with the former president, Mark Shuey, redirected me to his European representative, Master Guy De Ro. In 2010, Cane Fighters International arrived in France for its first seminar, marking the beginning of a new era. My passion then led me to Belgium for Grand Master Mark Shuey's last European tour, at my friend Guy De Ro's place.

Over the years, I have enriched myself through encounters with exceptional instructors, sharpening my skills in technical, tactical, and mental domains. The CDP method was born, a unique synthesis of my martial and athletic experiences. My technical program offers a coherent and structured progression system, simple, realistic, and accessible to all.

Personal Cane Defense is not just a technique; it is a philosophy, a way of life that advocates self-defense and personal development.

Join the adventure and discover the power of Cane Defense!

*Master James Stewart

Thought I would take this opportunity to Introduce myself & my background.
I started my martial arts journey in 1986 training in the art of Japanese budo tai-jitsu. In 2000 I discovered the Filipino martial arts of eskrima/ arnis/ pangamot, an art I quickly fell in love with & continue to study to this day.
Through my involvement with eskrima, I was extremely fortunate to be invited to train in traditional Irish stick fighting, a fantastic system for close range & multiple opponent  situations. I currently hold a level 5 instructor certificate in this style. Through my love of stick arts, I have been able to study some military baton systems such as kengla & fairbain, police systems like the "lamb" method as well as civilian cane systems like floro, Janich cunningham. I am truly honoured to have been invited to be involved in this exciting seminar, looking forward to meeting & making new friends, taking away new ideas & hopefully giving people some new ideas to take away.