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My name is Monitor Canguru, aka Craig Blackburn, and this is my story.
I started playing capoeira in Australia in 1999, aged 25, where I was given my nickname Canguru. From my very first lesson I was hooked. And I still believe today that capoeira is the healthiest addiction anyone can have.
I quickly became fascinated by the Brazilian culture: its food, people, music and language. So I traveled the country, learning Portuguese and capoeira wherever I could, until I arrived back in London.
It was here that my capoeira journey really began, with Professor Rodrigo and the Association of Capoeira Engenho da Rainha (ACER). It was in Balham, not Bahia, that I would learn ACER’s unique style of capoeira, passed down from our 64-year-old (at that time) master.
It was here that I would also come to meet a warm group of individuals and a teacher with a bite far worse than his bark (which is still fairly scary); a heart of solid gold; and the ability to inspire and engage his students. He also cooks a mean barbeque!
Since that day I dedicated myself to becoming a capoeirista of ACER, so much so that I planned to leave London on more than one occasion, each time with no success.
Eventually, Prof. Rodrigo gave me my chance – to open a school of Engenho da Rainha in Newquay, Cornwall. How could I refuse such an honour?! – even if he would later use visits to Newquay as a cover to go surfing.
Today you can catch me jumping around on Cornish beaches and teaching surfers, residents and holidaymakers the ancient art of capoeira – Engenho da Rainha. So if you’re in the area and you fancy a challenge, you are most welcome in my class or for a Personal Training.
I look forward to seeing you there.
Click here to contact me for information on classes
