Martial arts seminars by Hollywood 'action hero'

It will be a dream come true for the hundreds of Maltese martial arts fans when Silvio Simac, fast earning a reputation as Hollywood's new action hero, pays a visit to Malta to give a series of seminars.

Mr Simac, a world renowned martial arts champion who many believe is following in Bruce Lee's footsteps, will be holding classes in Malta between December 8 and 11, ranging from dynamic kicking to self defence.

Born in Croatia, Mr Simac, 31, achieved the pinnacle in Taekwon-do by becoming world gold medallist, British champion 14 times and European champion four times.

Two years ago, he burst onto the TV scene as one of the stars of Masters of Combat, a revolutionary BBC2 game show based on martial arts.

He subsequently landed roles in commercials, TV shows and films, alongside names like Jet Li, Luc Besson, Bob Hoskins and Lennox Lewis. His film credits include Unleashed, Dead or Alive, Black Mask 2 and The Purifiers.

Among other performances, Mr Simac put on a spectacular martial arts display at the Dominion Theatre, in London for the Royal Variety Performance and a Martial Arts Spectacular.

In the last 12 years, he has tirelessly striven to raise the profile of his sport through breathtaking demonstrations and public appearances, often raising money for charities.

"Whether you're into karate, Jiu-Jitsu or judo, this promises to be a major event for all lovers of martial arts," organiser Adrian Axisa said.

Classes will be split into groups of 25, two of which will be aimed for children aged 12 and under.

Mr Axisa said interest in martial arts in Malta was immense, to the extent that an estimated 400 train regularly.

Mr Axisa can be contacted on 9925 6363.