Gary Chang has been a dedicated practitioner of Japanese Swordsmanship since 2000. With decades of training in kendo, kenjutsu, and iaijutsu, his martial journey has spanned multiple ryūha and disciplines. He helped co-found Bushido Tanren Kenkyukai (武士道鍛錬研究会, Bushido Research Group), an organization focused on preserving and advancing traditional Japanese sword arts.

Seeking to explore the practical application of classical techniques through live sparring and pressure testing, Gary began offering classes through SoCal Swords, where his teachings found resonance among HEMA practitioners. These experiences ultimately led to the founding of Shinko-ryū Shinkenjutsu (神狐流真剣術), a system that blends traditional swordsmanship with modern combat exploration, grounded in both technical discipline and spiritual reverence.

Jieyu Wu has been an active competitor in Kendo (3rd dan), HEMA, Naginata (2nd dan), Light Saber Fencing, and Mixed Weapons Fencing for 15 years. His extensive accolades include:

• Combatcon Advanced Longsword 2023: 1st place

• Highest Longsword Hema Ranking Achieved top 1%: 71 out of 11360 fighters (March 2025), Rating: 1740.8

• Highest Saber Legion Light Saber Fencing Rank Achieved: 3 out of 180 fighters (April 2024)

• Multiple time gold medalist in Kendo, Longsword, Naginata, Light Saber Fencing tournaments.

• Made it to Longsword Open finals at Legend of the Lake using a Katana with top 1% Hema rated Fencers

• Made it to the finals using Shinai in Kendo Vs. Naginata Tournament against Dutch National Team Members