Ed "Cubano" Martin (PGCA Head of Curriculum)
In 1983 i had the great fortune to meet a Japanese Zen master who
took time to share some extraordinary concepts, philosophies and
perspectives towards the study of martial arts. I tested his teachings
with a few years of informal martial arts studies with 2nd and 3rd
degree black belts of various styles. He was my mentor and Teacher. I
began my journey into the martial arts in October of 1984 with the study
of Jun Fan/Jeet Kune Do and Jeet Kune Do concepts. My studies began
with Sifu Paul Vunak and progressed with completing my studies with Sifu
Richard Bustillo. Learning kali, western boxing, filipino boxing, muay
thai, savate and of course Jeet Kune Do. From there I furthered my
studies into kali and silat with Pendekar P. Greg Alland in the arts of
SinaTirsiaWali and Lanka Ampat Pentjak Silat in New York where I was
hired by Diana Ross to protect her and especially her young children. I
then furthered my studies with Pendekar Paul De Thouars in Pentjak Silat
Bukti Negara and Serak. I also furthered my Silat Serak with Pendekar
Paul's brother Maha Guru Victor De Thouars. While in New York city with
Pendekar P. Greg Alland I also studied with Grand-master Joao Grande and
helped both these individuals establish their academy. I also found
time to study Hapkido, earning my black belt within 6 months and
assisting Sensei Victor establish his school. After this I traveled back
to California to further my studies of executive protection with Mr.
Cliff Stewart assisting him with the completion of his newly revised
Within Arms Reach program designed to elevate the tactical proficiency
of military special forces, tactical law enforcement teams and high
level executive protective services agents. At this time I also heard
about a small group practicing Capoeira and decided to meet them. From
there a great friendship was attained with individuals that have the
right spirit and of utmost character. For some years now we have been
providing Capoeira classes to inner city youth and adults.
The thing I love most about martial arts is its ability to strengthen
character, instill humility and wisdom and above all would be its
ability to profoundly impact so many lives and to live on through your
instructors. And most importantly, the incredible ability to learn from
ones students. I also enjoy the impact that it has when a student
finally overcomes a personal challenge and the pride and humility they
express in having attained the goals we give them.
California
Zen Master 1980 - 1985
Jeet Kune Do 1983 - 1989
New York City
SinaTirsiaWali 1989 - 1995
Lanka Empat Silat 1989 - 1995
Capoeira Angola 1989 - 1995
Hapkido 1994 - 1995
Judo 1994 - 1995
California
Within Arms Reach 1996 - 2000
Bukti Negara 1996 - 2000
Serak Paul De Thouars 1996 - 2000
Serak Victor De Thouars 2000 - 2004
I support PGCA because we are committed to changing lives. To share
an ancient beautiful Afrikan art that was disguised and handed down
secretively from one slave generation to the next. Enriched with
history, art, ancient science and rites of passage. It has music, dance,
singing and it contains life lessons hidden within the curriculum and
character building in the applications of the curriculum hidden within
the games where the curriculum is executed without touching or harming
your comrade.