Moses Lake martial artist teaches in Mexico

MOSES LAKE - A martial arts instructor from Moses Lake took his knowledge of ancient combat to Mexico as a guest teacher.

Eric Slyter, director of Veritas Swordplay Academy, taught students in Mexico City a form of martial arts originating in the 14th century called, "Kunst des Fechtens." Translated, the phrase means "art of fighting."

Slyter was a guest instructor for a seminar hosted by Carlos Chavez, whom Slyter met last spring when he taught Chavez's students in Queretaro, Mexico.

"What makes (Kunst des Fechtens) distinct is that it is based on historical manuscripts rather than an oral tradition," Slyter said.

Slyter said the form of martial arts is fairly obscure, but gaining popularity among those interested in an alternative to traditional fencing.

According to Slyter, Kunst des Fechtens is based on text written from 1389 to 1612, written by 14th century martial arts master Johannes Liechtenauer.

After 1612, there was a cultural shift favoring other weapons, particularly the use of gunpowder.

Slyter started studying the form in 2003 and started teaching it in Moses Lake in 2005.

Kunst des Fechtens is an extremely aggressive martial art, Slyter said.

"It was an art used by knights," he said.

He said he was invited to teach in Mexico City again and in Guadalajara. Teaching in Mexico has been thrilling, he said.

"I love to teach, for one, and I love to share my knowledge," Slyter said.

Approximately 20 people attended the workshop in Mexico City, ranging in ability from zero knowledge in martial arts to having experience in Kunst des Fechtens.

Classes in Moses Lake are Wednesdays at 7 p.m. at The Chapel on Third, 601 W. Third Ave.

For more information, call Eric Slyter at 509-855-1500.