Impressive Haul: 47 Medals, Second Overall in Canada
The 2026 Canadian Wushu Championships, held alongside the Ontario Games Wushu competition, took place in Waterloo from July 31 to August 2. Led by Grandmaster Hong Yuan Luo and Coach Brandon Luo, Edmonton’s Ji Hong Wushu and Tai Chi College fielded a squad of nearly 20 athletes. The team delivered an outstanding performance, bringing home 22 gold, 16 silver, and 9 bronze medals to secure second place overall in the national team standings with 47 podium finishes.
A Rising Generation Tested in Summer Training
Following a busy international schedule earlier in the year, most of Ji Hong’s elite athletes had already wrapped up their major competitive commitments. This time around, the roster was built primarily around junior and youth division competitors making their out-of-province national debuts, with only a small handful of experienced Tai Chi practitioners on the squad. Leading up to the tournament, these young athletes pushed through gruelling six-hour daily training sessions in the sweltering July heat, battling fatigue, pushing through minor injuries, and showing true grit to earn their place on the carpet.
Unmatched Team Spirit and Rising Confidence
Throughout the competition, Coach Brandon Luo provided crucial carpetside tactical guidance and steady encouragement. Behind the scenes, parents managed logistics seamlessly while team members continuously rallied behind one another. Beyond their technical execution, the team showcased incredible cohesion, and with every passing event, the athletes’ confidence only grew, culminating in a triumphant return home with the country’s second-highest medal count.
Officiating and Expert Leadership
Ji Hong College President Jennifer Gu served as the tournament’s Chief Referee, overseeing the judging panel with professionalism and impartiality to ensure fair, high-standard competition throughout the weekend. Edmonton’s Kit Poon was also invited to serve as an official judge for the tournament.
