Sifu Pete Peterson, of Rapid City Kung Fu, started his martial arts in 1975 at the St. Paul, Minnesota YMCA with Sensei Robert Billington, who was stationed in Okinawa, Japan, in the US Army. While in Okinawa, Sensei Billington studied under Sensei Ankicki Nakamura Okinawa Shuri-Te Karate. Sensei Billington taught in Minnesota and Wisconsin for many years.

In 1992, Sifu Peterson traveled to Okinawa nine times to train in karate with Sensei Ankicki Nakaumara. He also trained at the Shuri Dojo with other students of Sensei Chozo Nakama. Sifu Peterson did research during each trip and met many Masters from Okinawa Karate. He received his 1st Degree Black Belt through 5th Degree and his Shihan Certificate (Master Teacher) from Sensei Ankichi Nakamura.

In 1996, Sifu Peterson met Master Tony Sandoval in Minnesota and trained with him. Sensei Sandoval was a highly decorated U.S. Marine who spent many years studying with many different teachers in Okinawa. Sifu Peterson received his 6th, 7th, and 8th Degree Black Belt from Master Sandoval. He also received a Kyoshi title certificate (Expert Instructor).

His quest to keep learning and returning to his early roots in the martial arts led him to Cai Li Fo Kung Fu. His teacher from Minnesota lived and trained in Foshan, China, for several years. Sifu Peterson traveled to China and studied under Master Wai Leung, who awarded him his coaching-teaching certificate.

Sifu Peterson met Master Lee in China, joined his international organization, and trained in China to learn this system. Master Lee issued Sifu Peterson his teaching certificate. Sifu Peterson was able to return to China in May 2023 for more training with Master Lee and was appointed to USA Director Ving Tsun Instinct recently.