Sifu Costello (Carma Walsa)

Sifu Costello began his journey in 1973, achieving the rank of Sifu in 1982. Officially adopted by Grandmaster Chiu Chung, he was entrusted to carry the Lung Ying (Dragon Sign) flame to Ireland. A pioneer of the traditional arts, he led the first Irish team to Central China for Wu Shu exhibitions in 1988 and serves as the President of the Irish Wu Shu Association.

After introducing Tai Chi to Ireland in the late 70s, Sifu Costello continued his development in Hong Kong, joining the Tai Wu Qi Gong Association—one of the largest of its kind in China. His life’s work has been the bridge between ancient Chinese tradition and the community in Slane.

Published Works

Beyond the physical practice, Sifu Costello has documented the philosophy, history, and spiritual path of the Dragon Sign through several key publications.

The Coalman, The Dragon and The Buddha

An autobiographical account of Sifu Costello’s unique journey—from his early days in Ireland to his training in the backstreets of Hong Kong and the eventual establishment of the Shaolin Temple in Slane.

The Dragon’s Road to Your Path

A guide to the internal discipline of Lung Ying. This book explores how the ancient principles of the Dragon can be applied to one’s own life journey, focusing on the “Way” rather than the fight.

The Divine Bond

Within the conscious universe, all enlightened beings from many universes and galaxies, bond together, and in so doing become at one with the ‘Divine Oneness’. This bond is never broken.

continue reading…

Building a Legacy

In 1998, Sifu Costello established the Shaolin Temple in Slane to honor Grandmaster Chiu Chung’s dying wish: to bring the original principles of the Dragon to the world in its authentic format.

The Lung Ying Academy was awarded charitable status in 2009 in recognition of its commitment to healing and community support. While rooted in Buddhist principles, the teachings are offered as a “spiritual guide” that can fit into anyone’s life.

Today, Sifu Costello continues to teach Kung Fu, Tai Chi, and the Healing Arts in their most traditional sense, ensuring that the purity of the art remains unchanged for the next generation of practitioners.