About the Instructors
Sifu Mark Purkeypile began his studies in both Northern Eagle Claw kung fu and Wu-style tai chi in 1990 under Master Benson Lee. Sifu Purkeypile has demonstrated at numerous martial arts events and competitions over the years, and is often called on to judge in tournaments held in the United States.
During his time as a California State Park Ranger, he became the first Officer of his class out of 50 Officers to become a Law Enforcement Departmental Defensive Tactics Instructor. As a former intelligence operator in the 18th Airborne Corps of the U.S. Army, a State Park Ranger, and a Sacramento Police Officer, he has acquired a real-world knowledge and approach to self-defense principles.
His traditional approach to martial arts training and his desire to help each student achieve their goals has made him a respected instructor. Sifu Purkeypile enjoys getting to know each of his students and invites prospective students to drop in and observe a class to discuss their objectives in seeking martial arts and fitness instruction.
Master Benson Lee began his martial arts training under Grandmaster Shum Leung in New York City in 1976. In 1988, Master Lee opened the Ying Jow Pai Kung Fu School in Sacramento. Master Benson Lee is one of the foremost authorities on the Northern Eagle Claw system in the world.
Master Lee is a world-renowned international competitor and instructor in the Eagle Claw system, as well as a published contributor in Inside Kung Fu magazine. In 1982, he was named among the top three Competitors of the Year by Inside Kung Fu magazine.
Master Lee’s extensive knowledge of martial arts, affable nature, and devotion to traditional standards of instruction has guided hundreds of students over the years. Master Lee now resides in Glendale, California where he continues to teach the Eagle Claw system and the Wu-style of tai chi chuan.
