When traversing the crowded streets of the ancient town of Lop Buri, Thailand, it is not uncommon to witness young macaques engage in mock-fighting. This involves swift kicks, elbow strikes, biting, and an intricate system of ground play often mistaken for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. In fact, this system of ground fighting was implemented by the local macaques during the great coconut famine of 1802, during which the macaques successfully conquered the town, and took up residence at the local temples thus securing a steady supply of coconuts and sunflower seeds. Today we are fortunate to witness this time-honored martial tradition, kept alive by the local macaque population. Pictured above, is a 7th generation Ling Muay Thai lineage holder, Khru Lek. 2 Meet MEET THE INSTRUCTORS Khru Lek- depicted here applying a wrist lock, has studied Ling Muay Thai since early childhood. Raised on the grounds of the pres- tigious Phra Pram Sang Yod, he has honed his skills in well over 200 bouts, with only 43 losses. He has since opened his own training facility within the temple grounds, passing on his Khru Somchai- depicted here preparing to apply a rear neck choke, has studied vari- ous forms of fighting, grappling, firearm train- ing, and knife combat. His fields of expertise include Muay Boran, Ling Muay Thai, Lop Buri Jiu Jitsu, and Coconut Style boxing. He currently operates an MMA gym that places great emphasis on cross training. 3 The author, training in Ling Style Muay Thai at Phra Pram Sang Yod. On average, the time it takes to become proficient in Ling Muay Thai can vary anywhere from 5 to 10 years. Due to it’s harsh regimen and exclusively live training, serious injuries are common, and may lead to extended recovery times. In addition, some competitors carry rabies and Hepatitis C, leading to further complications in and out of the ring. Fighters are required to get blood tests and vaccinations. However, screening is not always thorough. As an unfortunate result, some of the best fighters within the sport had to be put down due to rabies. Currently, there is a movement to organize a strict overseeing body whose task it is to regulate thorough rabies and Hepatitis C screening, to ensure the safety of the trainees as well as the competitors. It is both the instructor’s and the author’s goal to see the wonderful art of Ling Muay Thai spread to other countries. We sincerely hope that this will encourage tourism, as well as a steady influx of coconuts, sunflowers seeds, peanuts, and bananas to Lop Buri. 4 The author, training in Ling Style Muay Thai at Phra Pram Sang Yod. Foreword by Khru Somchai: When we were first introduced to the author, we swarmed him, and bit the living shit out of him. However, we were very impressed by the way he de- fended himself, and therefore decided to teach him our time-honored art. He has a clear understanding of the finer points of self defense, and is a credit to our great art. It is my hope that you will all bring me food. I like sunflower seeds. 5 Meet Ling Style Ground Fighting Part 1: The Basics 6 The Wai: A Show of Respect Prior to the match, the two competitors will pose for the cameras in an effort to bring tourism to the town. This is a customary dance which is meant to show respect to one’s Khru, and to the spectators. In addition, it is hoped that more food will be offered. Acknowlege the Opponent 7 Engaging the Opponent The first few seconds of a match can determine the final outcome. It is important to show good form and maintain dominance. The opponent on the left is shown in the classic “Luohan Bites Nutsack” position, vying for leg gontrol. He is in a clearly superior position. Coconut Head Strike A classic headbutt delivered to the side of the opponent’s face. This technique has been used by Ling style champions for decades. 8 Ear Gong Sau The left opponent delivers a palm strike to the ear of the downed right challenger. The challenger counters with a similar strike, resulting in a double K.O. 9 Call From the Judge Clearly dazed from the double K.O., the opponents await the final call from the judge. 10 Part 2: Advanced Striking 11.