I had the privilege of starting my martial arts journey over 29 years ago in Alexandria, LA, under the guidance of Sensei Buckley exploring traditional Ju-Jutsu within the Juko-Ryu system. My transition to Texas in 2000 introduced me to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), while similar in some ways, it wasn't what I was looking for.
In November 2007, I began my Silat adventure with Guru Dority in Dallas, where I had the opportunity to immerse myself in various Indonesian and Malaysian martial arts and explore disciplines like Kali, Wu-Wei, and Muay Thai. As my skills evolved, I ventured into other movement communities, ultimately discovering Parkour. I became a certified Parkour instructor through the World Free-running Parkour and Parkour Federation (WFPF).
Collaborating with Guru Micheal, we formed a training group in Allen, Texas, focusing on Silat, Kali and Parkour which had become a significant part of my training. I greatly admired Guru Micheal's movement, and our intensive sessions allowed me to gain invaluable insights into personalized movement. Throughout my journey, I continued to learn from Guru Doc, Guru Tim, and my teammates from PKOUT, who emphasized the importance of understanding the movement on a personal rather than simply a performative level.
The Silat community I was a part of was known for its approachability. Maha Guru Richard Crabbe DeBordes, of Pencak Silat Macan Hitam, has always been responsive to questions and provide feedback, enriching my martial arts experience. At the suggestion of Guru Richard, I delved into the Brazilian art of Capoeira, which turned out to be a profound and transformative endeavor. I trained with Professora Borboleta in Fort Worth and even traveled to Brazil, where I had a significant learning experience.
After leaving PKOUT, I joined the team at Dallas' first Parkour facility, The Fugitive School of Sscape and Evasion. There, I led our self-defense program while expanding my knowledge of various movement methods. Meeting Chau Belle in Houston introduced me to ADD (LArt du Déplacement), revolutionizing the way I trained, even influencing my Silat practice.
My journey through various arts and disciplines has shaped my unique expression of movement, an amalgamation of what I've learned from Maha Guru Richard Crabbe DeBordes, Guru Besar Bambang Suwanda, Art du LDéplacement, and Capoeira. This fusion, with Guru Tim's blessing, has allowed me to share his system while incorporating my personal perspective.
It's essential for me to acknowledge my teachers and friends who have been instrumental in my journey. I'm committed to providing information to connect others with the individuals who have guided me along this path."