Is any one familar with the late Mr.Barathy´s system? Are any of his former students actively teaching the system? His was a story of extreme determination. He battled lupus for many years, but God truly blessed the man with gut grit. One of his more well known students was, Mr.Mark Gastenau of pro., football fame. What ever happened to him by the way? I just think Mr. Barathy´s story is amazing. Can anyone answer my quiries?:asian:

Barathy was one tough mofo who was well known for ability to brawl and his breaking ability. He is probably best known for his break on TV where he lite the blocks on fire with fluid and broke them but burned himself. I believe he also suffered blindness in one eye at one point. He was instrumental in the 70's for getting martial arts to the masses. His death was somewhat recent, a few years ago.

Mark Gastenau was a pro football player who after he left was one of the long line of men that lined up to marry bridget neilson, (Stallone and others) and when he retired he took up pro boxing. Amassing an impressive record only to have his @ss handed to him when he finally met up with a good boxer and not a tomato can or a pro-diver that his management would set him up with. In fact I believe 60 minutes did an expose on his pro-boxing career.

Barathy was the real deal though. Ate thunder and cr@pped lightning.

I thought Mark Gastenau was terminally ill with some form of Cancer.

You might have been thinking about Lyle Alzado. Not sure.

I may be completly incorrect but I remember Mr. Barathy learning ice breaks and improveing his braking with/from Thomas St. Charles of Pai Lum back in the early 70's. He was even on Martial Arts Theater hosted by John Saxon with St. Charles And Mr. Charly Hattchaet(sp) durring that time.
Mr st.Charles is now one of the grandmasters in Pai Lum (desegnated by Great GrandMaster Pai befor his death.
Sorry I can't remember who his other instructors where.

Do any of Mr.Barathy's blackbelts still propigate the system?
From what I remember of his blackbelts, they were dedicated.
Some, maybe all of them would get the forearm tatoos of
Mr.Barathy after achieving blackbelt status!!! The man's grit
was truly inspiring. I hope he has found peace...

Do any of Mr.Barathy's blackbelts still propigate the system?
From what I remember of his blackbelts, they were dedicated.
Some, maybe all of them would get the forearm tatoos of
Mr.Barathy after achieving blackbelt status!!! The man's grit
was truly inspiring. I hope he has found peace...
I'm having a hard time navigating thruogh this site i find it very confusing to post anything but however i've noticed several inquiries concerning Richie
Barathy. Well i have a trove of info about him as he was my instructor for 4 years back in the late 70's and early 80's. anyone can contact me at tony_barberi@hotmail.com. and i would be happy to correspond. tbar.

Lets try this again.
Richie Barathy was my karate instructor for 4 years back in the late70's and early 80's. if you would like to know more about the legend please ask me some specific questions because there is alot i know about him since he was also a close personal friend as well as atleast 7 or so of his black belts and many of his students. tbar.

Lets try this again.
Richie Barathy was my karate instructor for 4 years back in the late70's and early 80's. if you would like to know more about the legend please ask me some specific questions because there is alot i know about him since he was also a close personal friend as well as atleast 7 or so of his black belts and many of his students. tbar.

I believe people are wondering if anyone is still teaching his system.

I had the pleasure of studying under Sensei Barathy in the mid 70's for about 2 1/2 years. A career choice lead me to abandon my studies with him and time and events have precluded me from picking up the studies since. I've studied under some of the finest teachers over the years (in subjects other than martial arts), and Sensei Barathy stands out as one of the best. He communicated his system in a way that was logical and made sense. He stressed repitition, and was quick to observe flaws in my technique and not merely point them out, but show me how to do it correctly, and he stayed with me, (and his other students) until he was satisfied that I was on the right path. He really enjoyed teaching and his enthusiasm came through. I remember his lessons well. I remember him with warmth. I was saddened to learn of his untimely death.

When I started I paid about $35 per month, for four 3 hour classes per week. We stretched, worked on technique, learned Kata, and sparred in just about every class. I enjoyed every minute of it. He always had at least two other black belts teaching each class.

I can tell you from personal knowledge that Sensei Barathy, was, as he liked to say about himself, the "wrong guy", as in who you might not want to meet in a dark alley. When not teaching he frequently worked as a bouncer, wore flamboyant outfits, and had straight black hair down to his waist - and his get up sometimes encouraged challenges, and he never backed down. He only had one eye, (he lost the eye as a kid - stick fighting with friends), but he compensated and his depth perception was excellent.

His classes were long, and tough. He believed in full contact, excepting strikes to the groin and head, as he wanted his instruction to be practical so if his students ever encountered a real world event, they would know what it felt like to get hit.

I recall that there were several schools on Long Island and Brooklyn NY that operated under the "American Combat System". I do not know if anyone is still teaching his methods. I do remember that he studied with another Sensei, Howard Teague (I think I've spelled that correctly, and that he held Sensei Teague in high esteem.

I hope that answers some of your questions.

Lets try this again.
Richie Barathy was my karate instructor for 4 years back in the late70's and early 80's. if you would like to know more about the legend please ask me some specific questions because there is alot i know about him since he was also a close personal friend as well as atleast 7 or so of his black belts and many of his students. tbar.

Man you are a luckly individual..Being taught by Barathy Sensei...

i am currently in the process of researching through family and old friends, where Richie Barathy's former black belts are and if they are training. by the time i joined his school Barathy was called "Kioshi" since he was a sixth degree black belt. He did train with Howard Taig (not sure of spelling) whom i believed trained under Bruce lee for a time. Sensei Ron McCaffery, sensei Matthew Willing, renchei Dave Greene and renchei John Russel were among his best black belts and many were in 'Nam together. It usually took about ten years of serious training to get to black belt in this school unlike just a few years in others. The first school that i went to in 1979 was in Lynbrook, N.Y.
Sometime in the mid '80s another school opened up in Huntington, N.Y. I also
have a handful of photos and a video of kioshi in Madison Square Garden doing his thing. One time i went to pick up the 17 slabs of 1" thick granite that he broke at his school for a PM Magazine show, however this time not on fire. One time he burned much of his hair off. We were a very tight family both the black belts and the students and we used to have seminars in the mountains and have change of scenery for training and do a substantial amount of partying at night. The degree of focus and intensity was amazing among kioshi and the rest, even the brown belts. We were predominantly taught self defense and street fighting techniques, floor fighting, three or four on one, some weaponry and a ton of sparring,... brutal sparring! I believe there was about 13 different styles of martial arts being taught on a regular basis and to my memory Tae Kwon Do, Ju Jitsu, Tai Zen, and earlier forms of Ninja were used. I have some pretty incredible stories of some of the things that the black belts did but i could go on for ever so while i'm doing some research on what happened to everyone from the school fell free to write and ask what you'd like to know and i'll try to answer the best i can. And Brian who wrote in, and who was a student before myself is right in saying that kioshi lost his right eye while playing stick fighting as a kid. He also had a round belly early on with a huge diagonal scar across it from an operation. Later on he might have juiced it a bit cause he was in incredible shape but kind of puffy skinned. Either way the man was more than a man. tbar

Either way the man was more than a man. tbar

I remember watching him to break the stone slabs that he ignited on the Tonight Show, I think it was the Tonight Show...It was another time he burned his hair.It was incredible....

I have a friend that was very close to him, and was a personal student-private lessons several times a week for many years. They used to train in my school on my off hours. Kyoshi would let me train with them as well, which was an enlightening (and painful) experience. He was very scientific in his approach and knew how to get the best out of each individual. He had the uncanny ability to watch you do a technique and immediately adjust your structure, delivery, etc and make improvement. He was one of the best teachers I have ever met due to this ability.
I did notice one thing, however. What he taught, and what he did were two different things. Many of the techniques he used were his own personal techniques and were different than what his Black Belts did. Kyoshi had alot of Gung-Fu technique-specifically his hands, trapping, timing, etc. There seemed to be a "style within a style" which many teachers have. Many have their own "Personal hand" which they save for a select few. I would be interested in anyone else's experience with this.

Hey people,
I had the opportunity to train at a spot in valley stream ny about 14 years ago, operated by sensi Impalazari. I went to high school with him and several other ACK students. This was the only karate I have ever studied and think there is nothing like it to this day. I have since moved to GA and can't seem to find a place down here that teaches a style similar. Anyone know of such a spot down here?

Hi all.
Nice to see fellow ACK practitioners.
I studied under Renshi (at the time) Finnigan in Massapequa, N.Y. back in the late 80's early 90's.
Unfortunately there were some problems involving younger students going into the local bars and practicing techniques on the patrons.
This led to our public location being closed and (IMO) a better private school being opened in the basement of Renshis' house.
This led to more intense training than we did at the public classes.
I remember barely being able to drive home after a night of spindle strikes (lol my poor wrists).
I also recall my friend Nick (brown belt at the time) showing me the bruise on his bicep after sparring with Renshi.
It looked nasty, but it was nothing compared to when he lifted his arm to show me the same bruise on the inside of his bicep and on his ribs.(Ouch!)
Ah the good 'ole days.:)

ACK - I agree with you. I have studied many different styles and forms over the years and nothing has come close to A.C.K for pure street survivability, even at a white, yellow belt lvl.

Well hopefully someone else from that school will be visiting this site.
Would be great to talk to old classmates.
I happened upon this site while trying to find our old school patch (Fist holding Lightning Bolt) to no avail.
I still have the actual patch, but don't have a scanner.

If anyone has or knows of a link to a pic of that patch I would greatly appreciate it.
Thanks all, look forward to visiting again.


D

Hello Friends;
Thanks to TBar, my brother, for leading me to this site. I also studied with Richie (Kyoshi) Barathy for about 12 years. I went on to Sensei Joe Impalazeri and Renshi Richie Corfage in Valley Stream for a short period before faling out of martial arts.

The Tattoos that the Black Belts got on their forearms were not of Kyoshi Barathy; they were all the same set of dragons but with their own various colorations. The original 9 senseis all got the tattoos around the same time, however when Sensei Don Mcaffrey went for his tats, he accidentally got them on the wrong arms. the dragons were facing the wrong way, which made for endless ribbing from the other black belts.

Thanks for the memories!

I am so happy to see fellow brothers who love American Combat Karate as much as me ,I trained as a teenager under Kioshi Finnigan , I was one of the younger guys there along with which still are and allways will be probly 15 of my closest friends , eventually in time we changed from a ACK school , to a Tai-Zen school , which was great because of the mix of the two it was a double edged sword. I was allways facinated still with ACK and some of my other friends which three of them went on to become blackbelts in American Combat , which they got from Kioshi Barathy, and I would allway pick there minds and get pointers and ideas ,thats where I had the privlidge of meeting Kioshi Barathy , he really seemed larger than life , I wished I could have trained under him some and knew him better which is not a knock on Kioshi Finnigan ,he was my only instructor everand to this day even know Ive strayed away from the arts I conider a "good friend " as well as a mentor , he retired and moved south has to be ten years ago, ive been recently thinking of returning to trainning not sure where and when ,I dont know of any Ack schools though Iknow recently sensai Corflouge was running a school in Lindenhurst but has closed down and dont know if hes still trainning ,I do know two of the originals Kioshi Romeo and sensai Willing are running there respective Tai-Zen schools. To me it was two great systoms with alot of "bad dudes".and a great time in my life

Renshei Impallazeri (sp?) closed down the Elmont school but has just opened up an ACK school in Levitown, NY. I believe he is still close with 3 Renshei's from the "original" ACK system. If anyone wants info on the school PM me. As of right now we train Tuesday and Thursday nights and Sunday mornings.

Renshei Korfaj (sp?), who was my original instructor, unfortunately closed his Copiague school a few years back. I believe he is now teaching JiuJitsu at Matt Serra's school who he became very close with while they studied under Renzo Gracie.

There are 2 more Renshei's i know of but can't even attempt to spell their names and at least 6 Sensei's I can think of off the top of my head.

All i know about Kyoshi Barathy are the stories i've heard and what i have read about him in 2 magazines i just recently tracked down.
Black Belt magazine - July 1986
Black Belt magazine - March 1997

" eventually in time we changed from a ACK school , to a Tai-Zen school , which was great because of the mix of the two it was a double edged sword."

What is Tai-Zen? Are there still Barathy blackbelts who teach his ACK system? If so, where?

By GOD's Grace,

" eventually in time we changed from a ACK school , to a Tai-Zen school , which was great because of the mix of the two it was a double edged sword."

What is Tai-Zen? Are there still Barathy blackbelts who teach his ACK system? If so, where?

By GOD's Grace,

Yes, as stated above, Renshei Impallazeri has just opened up an ACK school in Levitown, NY. If anyone wants info on the school PM me. As of right now we train Tuesday and Thursday nights and Sunday mornings.

Tai-Zen, as i know it was formed by Grand Master Tague as a more defensive style of martial arts. Do a google search and you'll find much more.

Well Tia-Zen is a system the Kioshi Barathy studdied with Grand Master Howard Tauge ( who should be highly respected ) and from what I beleave is one of the parts of ACK along with other styles , Yes you are right ACKGuy its way more defensive which was good for us after being taught to be so aggressive , dont think cause its a defensive style it should be underestimated .I know of at least three of the original blackbelts , Kioshi"s Finnigan and Romeo and sensai Willing have respected schools , there is a site Tia-Zen.com you can find out alot more If you stay within yourself and do as taught there is nothing you cant defend with Zen. t one point A Current Affair even wanted to do a story bacause Grand Master Tauge was so respected and everyone respected him so much ( I always will) they thought it was a cult of some sort ,im pretty sure but cant be positive but i truly beleave Kioshi Barathy respected all four men I mentioned highly , please post the location of that Levittown ACK school please .Peace out , be good fellow brothers.

I truly have never seen a message board with so much misinformation. I studied with Kyoshi Barathy until he passed (at his home in Dix Hills) and have trained with "Hanshi" Don McCaffrey for 15 years. Currently I am a Yondan Renshi in the system and can tell you anything you would like to know.
1st: There are NO similarities between Tai-Zen Jiu jitsu, under Master Tague, and ACK.
2nd: Kyoshi Lenny Romeo is a great teacher, and Renshi Matt Willing is a great fighter, whos loyalties and techniques are ALL Tai-Zen now (and that's not a bad thing)
3rd: Kyoshi Barathy used the Tai-Zen weight routine to greatly advance his skills but actually gave most of the credit for his technique to Nisei Goju (under Frank Ruiz) currently run by Hanshi Wilfredo Roldan.
4th: Renshi Joe Impellizeri still teaches original ACK and does a great job at it (also a great guy). I have personally never trained with Rich Korfhage, but know that his skill and integrity are in-line with old school ACK.
5th: "Kyoshi" John Russell is an awesome instructor. Kyoshi Russell never spent any time with Master Howard Tague and stayed true to the old line ACK methods. Absolutely a Master technician and a very cerebral fighter who ran a class at Renshi Impellizeri's school in Elmont.
6th: Renshi John Glenn, from what I understand, has a group that gets together in Wantagh somewhere. He used to teach at Kyoshi Barathy's house. Good teacher and fighter and stayed with Kyoshi Barathy until the end.
6th: Hanshi McCaffrey is the real deal. Power, speed and technique like never seen before. A truly great guy who is willing to teach anyone who comes through the door with a desire to learn and a disdain for politics. Hanshi McCaffrey trained extensively with Kyoshi Barathy from the beginning and also trained with Master Tague, who he credits as "incredible."
We have a group that gets together EVERY Tuesday night with Hanshi McCaffrey. Along with him, there are also 4 other high ranking ACK black Belts that join him to teach class. Interested??

Do you teach kata? If so are they established old school(ie:goju etc.) forms? Or do you teach kata particular to the ACK system? Say along the lines of the EPAK Long/Short forms? Thank you for your consideration.

1stJohn1:9

Actually, there is no kata in ACK. I'm certain that Kyoshi Barathy performed them while training with Nisei Goju, because they were big kata
practitioners, but they were never included in ACK.

I used to practice in the Elmont school, & the Lindenhurst school back in the day...I trained under Impallazari & Colflag (both awesome guys). Since then I relocated to Tampa FL, & recently enrolled into a large Tae Kwan Do academy. If I was still living up on the Island I would seriously get back into training w/ any of you guys! Btw, when I first started like 14 yrs. ago at the Elmont location I used to train w/ my cousin Tommy. I don't think he trains anymore, but if anyone knows of any of the locations I will pass it on to hime if he is interested.

I still have my patch w/ the fist griping the lightning bolt...brings back memories!!!

Ush!
Hello all,
I was recently sent an E-mail about this site...I trained with Renche Impalizzari when he started classes at his house in westbury, followed him out to the Valley stream schools and trained there with he and Renche Kofage for a few years. I was not aware he opened a school in Levittown. I would greatly appreciate and info on the school or info on how I might contact him. He was my instructor for just about 6 years, I unfortunately stopped, at my Purple belt aound the time the school was closing. He was a great friend as well and I would really like to get in contact. If anyone could help with the info again It is much appreciated.

Thanks
Tom

Unfortunately, and dont quote me on this, I have been hearing that the Levittown school will be closing. If you have any interest in training ACK, PM me.

P.S. Its "Renshi" not "Renche"

I used to practice in the Elmont school, & the Lindenhurst school back in the day...I trained under Impallazari & Colflag (both awesome guys). Since then I relocated to Tampa FL, & recently enrolled into a large Tae Kwan Do academy. If I was still living up on the Island I would seriously get back into training w/ any of you guys! Btw, when I first started like 14 yrs. ago at the Elmont location I used to train w/ my cousin Tommy. I don't think he trains anymore, but if anyone knows of any of the locations I will pass it on to hime if he is interested.

What you may not know is that the original founder of American Combat Karate, Warren Montagnino, resides in Florida. Kyoshi Barathy kind of took over the system from Sensei Montagnino; who was also a great, hard-nosed fighter.

Where in FL? I relocated to Tampa 3 years ago!

Where in FL? I relocated to Tampa 3 years ago!

I think he's in Lake Worth. I dont know if he has a school though, but that shouldnt stop you from making an effort, right?

Unfortunatly Lake Worth is like a 3 hour drive away (West Palm Beach area).

Can you PM me with the address and/or location of the Levittown school?
It would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
Tom

Can you PM me with the address and/or location of the Levittown school?
It would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
Tom

Dont know the address, sorry; not to mention, I believe the school is done.

Hello

I studied ACK and Tai-Zen under renchi Finnagin. Both styles are unique. I studied back in the late 80s early 90s steady and now tinker around with some of the upper ranks in ACK. Nothin steady. I feel Tai-Zen was great but went down the wrong path. Nothing against it, but things were much better in the Bethpage basement. I think the time of ACK is unfortunately gone, the true animals of the past have just gotten old and society changed. People couldn't handle the old style we used to do. I know one thing, the guys that play in the octagan, It would have never gotten to the ground with our old Instructors!


USHH

Excuse me it was Kyoshi Finnagin

Hello

I studied ACK and Tai-Zen under renchi Finnagin. Both styles are unique. I studied back in the late 80s early 90s steady and now tinker around with some of the upper ranks in ACK. Nothin steady. I feel Tai-Zen was great but went down the wrong path. Nothing against it, but things were much better in the Bethpage basement. I think the time of ACK is unfortunately gone, the true animals of the past have just gotten old and society changed. People couldn't handle the old style we used to do. I know one thing, the guys that play in the octagan, It would have never gotten to the ground with our old Instructors!


USHH

The time of ACK is certainly not gone. Maybe it's just where or whom you're training with. As for the comparison of "old ACK instructors" to the octagon fighters, I'd have to disagree with you. The BJJ or even good Judo guys would definitely take them to the ground in an organized match, as they would most other defensive forms of Karate and such in that arena. It's in the bar (Redheads), or the back alley (Palladium), or in line at the movies that these monsters would strike without any notice, at the drop of a hat, at the first sign of Bull ****. Real fighting, when it really matters. They were (and are) the best.

I'm not a Tai-Zen guy at all but, what do you mean by, "went down the wrong path?"

Maybe I did not make myself clear. I know the octagon is a sport with rules that we did not train for, I meant if they were to mix it up on the street with an mma fighter, I seriously dought it would last long enough to get to the ground. I agree they were (are) the best and I have the greatest RESPECT for all of them. As far as the "old" comment. This was meant with no disrespect! Most of us are just getting older with families and jobs and can't afford to bang it up at that level the way we used to. You didn't care that your forearms were black with briuses or a nuckle or toe was broke after class, it meant you had a good class. If the time of ACK was still here then would'nt we still have some schools? This is said with no disrespect intended. I still train a little, but get hurt alot easier and take longer to heal! As far as Tai-Zen, again, I respect all the instructors and the system. The wrong path means it did adapt to society and became more commercial then the way it was. Who Knows maybe thats the reason it is still around. Although oppisite in many ways I feel they are the two best systems created to survive a REAL situation. And again I respect any body who has trained either of these systems for any legth of time.

USHH

Maybe I did not make myself clear. I know the octagon is a sport with rules that we did not train for, I meant if they were to mix it up on the street with an mma fighter, I seriously dought it would last long enough to get to the ground. I agree they were (are) the best and I have the greatest RESPECT for all of them. As far as the "old" comment. This was meant with no disrespect! Most of us are just getting older with families and jobs and can't afford to bang it up at that level the way we used to. You didn't care that your forearms were black with briuses or a nuckle or toe was broke after class, it meant you had a good class. If the time of ACK was still here then would'nt we still have some schools? This is said with no disrespect intended. I still train a little, but get hurt alot easier and take longer to heal! As far as Tai-Zen, again, I respect all the instructors and the system. The wrong path means it did adapt to society and became more commercial then the way it was. Who Knows maybe thats the reason it is still around. Although oppisite in many ways I feel they are the two best systems created to survive a REAL situation. And again I respect any body who has trained either of these systems for any legth of time.

USHH

You definitely made the right choice to stay with ACK and now I see what you meant about the differences between the old days and today. An interesting point that I'd like to make is this: Do you have any idea how many students sustained injuries that prohibited them from continuing? TONS!!!! Imagine this....losing in a street fight because of an injury you sustained while training to protect youself in the street?? Maybe the old way was'nt really the best way. What are your thoughts???

As for Tai-Zen...let me just say that some of the people I have met drink too much of the Kool-aid. I asked a green belt once how he feels with the fact that Tai-Zen does no sparring. His answer was, "If we sparred, It wouldn't get anywhere because everytime you punched, I wouldn't be there." Now you obviously understand the foolishness with that statement!!! I laugh my ass off every time I think of this retard.

Hi guys. I'm trying to figure out who all of you are. I started at Rab's and went through about 10 locations and then moved to Staten Island. I'd love to train with ANYONE who is still training. And if anyone from another style would like to try something new, like Kyoshi McCaffery used to say, let's just get on the floor... :)

We do not do anything organized,but if Levittown is still going the location is just east of the wantagh parkway on hempsted tpke. make a left at the Quiznos it's right on the left in the old Tai-Zen school. Wolcott rd.



USHH

Kyoshi71,

Go to the Tai-zen home page under articles. The 1976 one of Tague has Barathy in it. Just some reading you might find interesting. I know you said in one of your post they did not train together, but I believe they did for a while.


USHH

Kyoshi71,

Go to the Tai-zen home page under articles. The 1976 one of Tague has Barathy in it. Just some reading you might find interesting. I know you said in one of your post they did not train together, but I believe they did for a while.


USHH

Read it again. I never said that they didn't train together because they certainly did. I said that during my tenure with Kyoshi Barathy, he seemed to have credited Nisei Goju under Frank Ruiz with the biggest impact on his ability. I think Kyoshi's compliments, or lack thereof, were more a situation of sour grapes toward Tai-Zen then who made the biggest impact.

Read it again. I never said that they didn't train together because they certainly did. I said that during my tenure with Kyoshi Barathy, he seemed to have credited Nisei Goju under Frank Ruiz with the biggest impact on his ability. I think Kyoshi's compliments, or lack thereof, were more a situation of sour grapes toward Tai-Zen then who made the biggest impact.
I think, also, when Sensei Romeo left Lynbrook, there was quite a bit of "friction" and nobody wanted to take sides -- just a thought...

I sure wish there was an ACK school here in Tampa...I miss not training back in the Elmont & Lindenhurst schools...

I feel the same way you do, I wish there was an ACK school here in Tampa too. I Trained Kyoshi Bacci and the Renshei D'Angelgo twins in Massapequa, Renshei Kofage, Renshei Impallazeri , Kyoshi Barathy in the basement of his house, with Sensei Glenn teaching. Where in tampa are you located?

John B

I had the privilege to FIND ACK again thanks to this link. I gotta tell you, in the last two years I have visited many martial arts schools - ALL comendable. HOWEVER, ACK produces the absolute toughest fighters in the world. I can only hope someday I can be close to the skill level I saw only last night.

I had the privilege to FIND ACK again thanks to this link. I gotta tell you, in the last two years I have visited many martial arts schools - ALL comendable. HOWEVER, ACK produces the absolute toughest fighters in the world. I can only hope someday I can be close to the skill level I saw only last night.

Thanks for the kind words. We truly appreciated you coming down last night and look forward to seeing you again. We're always happy to fill the floor with good, loyal guys like you.

My pleasure. See you Tuesdays!!!!

Let me tell you, all the teachers I had in ACK were awesome! Not just as teachers either. They didn't sugar coat things, they told you just how it is. They were honest and straight forward. I have a memory from around 94 or 95 when I was training in Kyoshi Barathy's basement and he wanted the ACK logo painted on the floor. I volunteered. I worked on it over the weekend and had it ready for class the next week. It was such an honor to do that for him. The only regret i have is that I never took a picture of it.
USH!:asian:

Let me tell you, all the teachers I had in ACK were awesome! Not just as teachers either. They didn't sugar coat things, they told you just how it is. They were honest and straight forward. I have a memory from around 94 or 95 when I was training in Kyoshi Barathy's basement and he wanted the ACK logo painted on the floor. I volunteered. I worked on it over the weekend and had it ready for class the next week. It was such an honor to do that for him. The only regret i have is that I never took a picture of it.
USH!:asian:




You did an awesome job on it too. Between that, the sparring buzzer and the Hootie & the Blowfish CD...just things you'll never forget.

Thanks Kyoshi71 ! You are right about the memories. When I was going we use to hear a lot of Hendrix. You by chance wouldn't have any pictures of you guys in Kyoshi's basement that may have the logo in it? I tried looking up Kyoshi Piccone but couldn't find him in the superpages.com

Thanks Kyoshi71 ! You are right about the memories. When I was going we use to hear a lot of Hendrix. You by chance wouldn't have any pictures of you guys in Kyoshi's basement that may have the logo in it? I tried looking up Kyoshi Piccone but couldn't find him in the superpages.com

No problem. I checked and do not have any photos of the basement. I wish I did actually because it was such an insane setup! People really have no idea that his basement was better than most dojos. As for the Florida gig, I'll check if anyone has any up-to-date contact info. If so, I'll PM you.

I was looking around for a new uniform and during my search I decide to see if anyone still makes the Stars & Stripes uniform, the one that Kyoshi Barathy used to wear. Century used to make them but stopped and now they have some lame looking american flag competition uniforms. I found a guy on ebay who is seeling them new and in various sizes. I figured I'd just share because it is one of Kyoshi Barthy's trademarks. I once read an article online about this martial artist who was know as the "Human Weapon" and said in his article that he was inspired by a martial artist he saw on the Johnny Carson show that had long black hair in a pony tail and wore a Stars & Stripes uniform but he diddn't remember his name (Kyoshi Barathy 1979). From seeing that show inspired him to train in the martial arts and study breaking techniques and he starting wearing the starts & stripes Gi in his demos.

What you may not know is that the original founder of American Combat Karate, Warren Montagnino, resides in Florida. Kyoshi Barathy kind of took over the system from Sensei Montagnino; who was also a great, hard-nosed fighter. And a highly respectful individual. I met Warren while studying GoJu and was to start training with him, but was involved in a freak accident that left me semi-crippled, both legs shattered. I wish I could have trained with ACK. Burnerbob.

I was looking around for a new uniform and during my search I decide to see if anyone still makes the Stars & Stripes uniform, the one that Kyoshi Barathy used to wear. Century used to make them but stopped and now they have some lame looking american flag competition uniforms. I found a guy on ebay who is seeling them new and in various sizes. I figured I'd just share because it is one of Kyoshi Barthy's trademarks. I once read an article online about this martial artist who was know as the "Human Weapon" and said in his article that he was inspired by a martial artist he saw on the Johnny Carson show that had long black hair in a pony tail and wore a Stars & Stripes uniform but he diddn't remember his name (Kyoshi Barathy 1979). From seeing that show inspired him to train in the martial arts and study breaking techniques and he starting wearing the starts & stripes Gi in his demos.

The stars & Stripes Gi that American Combat wore were NOT made by Century. It was made by KI International. Kyoshi Barathy pretty much exclusively wore KI International. Century created a knock-off.

And a highly respectful individual. I met Warren while studying GoJu and was to start training with him, but was involved in a freak accident that left me semi-crippled, both legs shattered. I wish I could have trained with ACK. Burnerbob.

Whats more is that Warren Montagnino was originally trained in Mu Duk Kwon (when it was a real fighting art) from Eugene Perceval. Sensei Montagnino had a hip problem and couldnt throw high kicks so when he opened up his own school, he called it "American Combat Karate.

Whats more is that Warren Montagnino was originally trained in Mu Duk Kwon (when it was a real fighting art) from Eugene Perceval. Sensei Montagnino had a hip problem and couldnt throw high kicks so when he opened up his own school, he called it "American Combat Karate.
Eugene Perceval, that brings back memories he was good friends with my Sensi Vincent DeMarco who took over Frank Ruiz Dojo in Garden City Park.

I trained ACK from 1989-1995 .Trained with kyoshi Barathy the last 3 years of his life in his basement.He even gave me and another one of the brown belts free private lessons for the last year before he got sick.We had lots of great times in that basement.Everything he taught me is forever with me.What was an amazing individual and greatly missed.

Hey JJB is that u Dom?...I remember when u painted the floor....The fist and lighting bolt in the center...You did an awsesome job......

I dont have any pictures either but we did shoot some video of us fighting down there.. i think a guy named joe (he has red hair) has the tape..

USHH!!!!

I also trained with renshei russell,Kyoshi bacci gave me my green belt,reshei richie kofage,reshei joey impallazeri,reshei john glenn,renshei steve piccone,the Renshei Dangelo brothers,I received my brown belt from Kyoshi Barathy.

USHHH! ACK FOREVER!!!!

UUSH!!! I trained under Kyoshi Romeo for a number of years in Tai-Zen but I have not trained in a long time and would love to know where ACK classes are being held?? Please let me know??

Unfortunately, and dont quote me on this, I have been hearing that the Levittown school will be closing. If you have any interest in training ACK, PM me.

P.S. Its "Renshi" not "Renche"


How can I find out where to train in the ACK System??

Ussh!!

UUSH!!! I trained under Kyoshi Romeo for a number of years in Tai-Zen but I have not trained in a long time and would love to know where ACK classes are being held?? Please let me know??


Why not just go back to Romeo?

Because when I left Tai-Zen many years back it was getting to repetitive. No dis-respect to Kyoshi Romeo he is a great teacher but I just started getting bored staying on the same thing for months. He stays on the same topic as Master Tauge.

I took a few classes about a year ago at the levitown ACK school and really liked it. I had to stop due to coaching baseball but i would like to start trainning again. I think the school has closed.

UUSH

Whats more is that Warren Montagnino was originally trained in Mu Duk Kwon (when it was a real fighting art) from Eugene Perceval. Sensei Montagnino had a hip problem and couldnt throw high kicks so when he opened up his own school, he called it "American Combat Karate.
Now that you help shake the cobwebbs from my head,I remember Walter and Gene going around to the various schools as well as Marvin "Mickey" Stein and Sonny Tomasso. A Korean was on the scene at that time, Howard Lee, Gene and Warren did not think much of him.

Now that you help shake the cobwebbs from my head,I remember Walter and Gene going around to the various schools as well as Marvin "Mickey" Stein and Sonny Tomasso. A Korean was on the scene at that time, Howard Lee, Gene and Warren did not think much of him.

That's way before my time. I think some of these guys fought in the civil war..:)

Anyway, I was told a story once by the namesake of this thread about how Sensei Perceval used to go around to various schools, like you had mentioned, and drop challenges to instructors in front of their students. Back then, he was on the cover of practically every MA magazine from coast to coast which, I would assume, led to a bit of intimidation and removed the "home field advantage" of the challenged instructor.
To make a long story short, Sensei Perceval immediately stopped this practice once he found himself on the "business end" of a Barathy sidekick to the armpit.

That's way before my time. I think some of these guys fought in the civil war..:)

Anyway, I was told a story once by the namesake of this thread about how Sensei Perceval used to go around to various schools, like you had mentioned, and drop challenges to instructors in front of their students. Back then, he was on the cover of practically every MA magazine from coast to coast which, I would assume, led to a bit of intimidation and removed the "home field advantage" of the challenged instructor.
To make a long story short, Sensei Perceval immediately stopped this practice once he found himself on the "business end" of a Barathy sidekick to the armpit.
He also did a demonstration of full force kicks to the abdomin, and having a 100 pound marble slab broken over his chest with a sledge hammer. 1963 was the year.

He also did a demonstration of full force kicks to the abdomin, and having a 100 pound marble slab broken over his chest with a sledge hammer. 1963 was the year.

He also (and I'm not kidding about this) would take full force kicks to his balls and claim to be able to pull them up at the last second. Said he learned it when he was stationed in Korea. Crazy huh?

He also (and I'm not kidding about this) would take full force kicks to his balls and claim to be able to pull them up at the last second. Said he learned it when he was stationed in Korea. Crazy huh?
Yrs I remember. Also chop beer bottle necks with a knife hand blow

I truly have never seen a message board with so much misinformation. I studied with Kyoshi Barathy until he passed (at his home in Dix Hills) and have trained with "Hanshi" Don McCaffrey for 15 years. Currently I am a Yondan Renshi in the system and can tell you anything you would like to know.
1st: There are NO similarities between Tai-Zen Jiu jitsu, under Master Tague, and ACK.
2nd: Kyoshi Lenny Romeo is a great teacher, and Renshi Matt Willing is a great fighter, whos loyalties and techniques are ALL Tai-Zen now (and that's not a bad thing)
3rd: Kyoshi Barathy used the Tai-Zen weight routine to greatly advance his skills but actually gave most of the credit for his technique to Nisei Goju (under Frank Ruiz) currently run by Hanshi Wilfredo Roldan.
4th: Renshi Joe Impellizeri still teaches original ACK and does a great job at it (also a great guy). I have personally never trained with Rich Korfhage, but know that his skill and integrity are in-line with old school ACK.
5th: "Kyoshi" John Russell is an awesome instructor. Kyoshi Russell never spent any time with Master Howard Tague and stayed true to the old line ACK methods. Absolutely a Master technician and a very cerebral fighter who ran a class at Renshi Impellizeri's school in Elmont.
6th: Renshi John Glenn, from what I understand, has a group that gets together in Wantagh somewhere. He used to teach at Kyoshi Barathy's house. Good teacher and fighter and stayed with Kyoshi Barathy until the end.
6th: Hanshi McCaffrey is the real deal. Power, speed and technique like never seen before. A truly great guy who is willing to teach anyone who comes through the door with a desire to learn and a disdain for politics. Hanshi McCaffrey trained extensively with Kyoshi Barathy from the beginning and also trained with Master Tague, who he credits as "incredible."
We have a group that gets together EVERY Tuesday night with Hanshi McCaffrey. Along with him, there are also 4 other high ranking ACK black Belts that join him to teach class. Interested??

Hello ACK'ers. Studied with Mr. McCaffery in the mid-80's when he recieved his rank as renshi from Kyoshi whom i also had the privilege to be taught in huntington. Also in lynbrook, with Mr. Romeo. No doubt Hansi McCaffery is the real deal, private lessons from him have made me a great fighter today. My black belt rank from another school came from my purple belt with those guy's and nothing has come close to ACK in the past 17 yrs. keep going on what we've been taught...West coast!!!

First I must tell you that I recently moved to Myrtle Beach, SC, but lived in my home in Levittown, NY for 42 years. I am 52 years old and married and have two sons who are Martial artists as well as multi-sport athletes. My youngest son Ryan is the general manager for Dolphin Fitness in Westbury, NY. When I started in the Lynbrook dojo during 1979 there where only four Brown belts. One was my Dojo brother George Milo’s and Tony Bovee, Don Brown (Shodan Tai-Zen) and one guy I saw maybe once or twice. Shortly after Jeff Guarini and Ricky Defino received their brown belts and it would be some time before I saw another promotion. John Squadrito and Ricky Levelle, Joe (Carver) Amoraroso (Renshi-Tai-Zen) and Juan where still Yellow belts when I joined. When I received my green belt that is when the whole picture changed. A black belt from Grand Master Peter Urban wanted bouncers to work for him at a night club in Islip named Hammerheads. This was when I was really permitted to grow. That’s when Sensei Romeo took me under his wing. John Squadrito and Ricky Levelle at this time where just teenagers and I, along with Franny my best friend and one of my Black Belts, maybe you remember him, he had really long red hair who and happens to be John Glenn’s cousin would drive them back to Wantagh after class. They would jump on the train in Wantagh and hide in the bathroom or walk from car to car to avoid paying, they were just kids. I felt bad so I would drive them home. Shortly after starting at Hammerheads John Squadrito called me and wanted to go visit Sensei Willing.
Jon Brown a big 300 pound student and friend of mine that joined ACK from Levittown joined us to see Sensei Willing and we went to pick up John Squadrito at his parents new home in Plainview. His brother Anthony answered the door and I was shocked to find out John had a brother. The reason he never mentioned him to us was because Anthony worked out The Malverne School of Self Defense (Chinese- Goju). I later found out that the owner of this school at one time was a business partner of Kyoshi Barathy and there was bad blood between them. Later Anthony was at tournament and was impressed with Renshi Finnegan (Kyoshi-Tai-Zen) so he joined American Combat Karate. Anthony received his brown belt along with me and Ritchie Crawfage (Renshi-ACK) and Alex Rivera (Renshi- ACK) and the meanest man I ever met, Artie Miller who when he passed away, Chuck Zito from the Hells Angels came to the funeral at O’Reilly’s on Long Island. Soon after getting the job at Hammerheads, Franny and I would be invited to Kyoshi Barathy’s House in Bethpage where he lived with Sensei Romeo and Willing. Around the time that the Huntington School was being built Kyoshi Barathy, Sensei Paul DeAngelo and Sensei Romeo with Ricky Difino moved to Huntington Bay. Then Sensei Romeo offered me a job at The Ritz, a night club in Manhattan. That’s when I met Artie Miller he was a Purple belt for God knows how many years. Sensei McCaffrey and Ricky Defino also worked with us.
That is when I met Sensei Jeff Craig; Bam-Bam was his nickname. Jeff was a child black belt under Grandmaster Ron Van Clief; He was big and strong and was put in to a Karate System that came out of Alphabet City in the lower part of Manhattan by his mother who wanted to toughen him up. That’s when we met the Hells Angels and Chuck Zito and Barathy started to bring Jerry Cooney into the city.

Soon after that gig, Jeff went to work at Studio 54 and I went there with him along with Larry Brown one of my friends from Levittown and the brother of Big Jon Brown. My friend Franny and his brother Kevin got jobs in the Electrical division of the club. When I got my Purple Belt, Larry Brown got us a job at The Roxy Roller Disco which was a big time night club on the west side of Manhattan. Jeff Craig, Franny Murray and George Milo’s from ACK came to work with us. This Club was owned by a man named Steven Greenburg who was a personal friend of Chuck Zito. He would become very friendly with our crew and Larry Brown (White Belt ACK) who for a short while ran the security at the club. After the club changed hands I went to work at the Huntington school for a while on the weekends and Sensei Romeo introduced me to a personal friend of the black belts, a character named Lenny Z. Lenny Z owned a bar supply company and had a lot of contacts. Based on Sensei Romeos recommendation Lenny Z got me a job working with him at An vine’s in Farmingdale, NY. He worked security with me but never spent five minutes at the door. He was a real character. Around this time Kyoshi Barathy started bringing Mark Gastineau from the Jets to An Vines to check things out. Soon summer arrived and it was time for the seminars that where the highlight of the season. All I can say is Pain Pain Pain. Myself along with the names I mentioned eariler recieved their brown belts. All the existing brown belts had stripes removed from their belts.
Sparring with Sensei Paul DeAngelo his toenail pierced my eyelid and I had to drive home like that. Getting my Brown Belt made me forget how much it hurt.
Things went along the same for a while and every summer at the seminars we would lose a stripe off of our brown belts. We all caught up to George Milo’s and the rest of the brown belts and no one made Black belt while I trained with them. Then I was called to enter the New York City Police Department. While I was in the Academy some of the Instructors where Martial Artists and they could tell I had some training and requested that while I was on probation I should stay away from training that could get me injured and lose my job. While at the Academy a revolution was under way in the American Combat System. Some of the Black belts felt that Kyoshi Barathy had stopped teaching them and was spending too much time with celebrities. They started training with Master Teague in Selden and where very happy with what they had learned. Soon all hell broke lose and the system began to split. When I decided to return to training I was torn. Because of Sensei Romeo I went to Tai-Zen. Now the confusion to me at the time was that all the black belts 2nd, 3rd and 4th degree were demoted by Master Teague to Shodan rank. I began training with them at a catering hall in Huntington and soon they opened a Dojo in Levittown, my home town. At first Master Teague allowed us to keep our Brown Belts but we could not wear black Gi’s like his Brown Belts. Also no rank of purple belt was observed so all of them went back to Green. It seemed like a good deal since all these Ju-jitsu techniques were new to us. Soon I had both of my sons in the class and things were going well. After I while I was promoted to Brown belt in Tai-Zen and received my first Diploma after close to 8 years in these systems. Soon I lost interest in the system and began to attend less and less. During this time I still kept in contact with George Milo’s and Anthony Sqaudrito
John and Anthony’s parents had a home on the water in Massapequa and they allowed me to keep my boat there. When Anthony got married George Milo’s and I were in his Wedding party. One day John mentioned that he was opening a dojo in Massapequa at the Gym that Amy Fisher met Joey Buttafuco. My two sons and George Milo’s along with John’s brother Anthony went to the new school and it was great. John Squadrito and John Glenn where always there and it was hardcore. My sons loved the class and got such a thrill when they got their first stripe on their white belts. One night Renshi Bacci and Renshi Paul DeAngelo with his son PJ came to the Dojo and promoted John to Sandan, he went crazy and punched a hole in the wall. Mark Linchner the Hollywood rat was there and John had told me that sometime ago he had given Mark his Black Belt. This was a surprise to all of us but all of us where so happy for John that no one said anything and I never heard about it again. I can’t recall how much time had passed but one day we received news that John had passed away. My Wife and I along Franny and George Milo’s went to the church and sat with His Family and John Glenn and it was heartbreaking. After I retired I needed a job and like most Cops, I started driving limos. One night while dropping off some people at the Palladium in NYC I saw Renshi Jeff Craig working out front.
We talked for a while and he told me that he was now a 4th Degree Black belt (Renshi) under Ron Van Clief. He also said that he needed more armed people at the club since last Thanksgiving he was shot at the door and one of his doormen Marcus from Coney Island had been killed. I took the job. This was the best crew I had ever worked with and much to my surprise one day Grandmaster Ron Van Clief came to work with us and I became his partner. Now you have to understand that since Jeff got shot our priority was to protect him. He ran the door and made all the decisions. This was a very dangerous position and with our backing things went smoothly. One of Jeff’s dojo brothers and a student of Ron’s is Taimak from the movie the last dragon. For a short while he worked with us. All this time I still went to the Gym in the mornings and worked a couple of nights at the club. Ron Van Clief (10th degree Red Belt) was familiar with Kyoshi Barathy and he was a Godan when Barathy was a student in The Nisei-Goju system. He requested that I train with him with his personal students at his home Dojo in Manhattan. It was an offer I could not refuse. He permitted me to wear my Brown belt and soon promoted me to the Rank of Shodan.
I trained with him every night before work and we became lifelong friends.
After a year or so the Palladium closed and was turned into dormitories for NYU.
I started working at a night club in Bethpage; Long Island called Summertime’s when Franny told me that some of the guys we grew up with wanted to start training in the martial arts. He told them that he could not teach them because he was still a purple belt and they could learn more from me. At around the same time my sons Justin and Ryan had told me about a Ju-jitsu school near our home that looked pretty good. They asked if they could join and I said sure. This Dojo had boxing and Judo and karate and the head instructor was a third Generation Martial artist from England. He was the type of guy who came from a dojo in Europe where all your promotions came from the fights you had after class in the pub above the school. This reminded me of the original ACK school in the basement of Lock, Stock and Barrel in Elmont. I watched his class and I was sold that this guy was good. My sons seemed enthusiastic and they really liked the Judo instructor Ralph who was from a great School in Baldwin.
Both never lost a Judo match except when they fought each other, my oldest son Justin choked out Ryan to win the finals. My wife was not happy. I struck up a friendship with him and he asked me to teach in his school. This was not something that I was used to but as I met more and more Martial Artists they seemed to have more of an open door policy.
It was more about exchanging information than ego. Before I could commit to something like this I felt that I must at least ask permission from Shidoshi Ron Van Clief. He was very supportive and stated that at my age I should not have to ask anyone for anything. But he did appreciate the respect. Then he told me that he was training to fight Joyce Gracie in the UFC. I wished him luck and had to give him credit at 51 to enter such a difficult challenge. Soon I was given a class to teach at the Dojo in Hicksville and before I knew what was happening I had my own classes, and my own system which we named The Fighting Dragons. American Combat had dragons as part of it system and Ron Van Clief was known as the Black Dragon and the School that I now rented space at used a Dragon from the flag of Wales in Great Britton. It seemed appropriate. While renting space from this Dojo in Hicksville I met many other Instructors from all over The United States and Europe and even some Ju-jitsu Instructors from Japan.
During this time I was introduced to Soke Michael DePasquale and his Son Michael Junior.
These men permitted me to become a member of the International Federation of Practicing Jujitsuans. They also sponsored me into the Gold Shield Society which is for Law Enforcement Martial Artists.
Two weeks after receiving my Third degree Black Belt I had a party at my home in Levittown and invited George Milo’s and Anthony Squadrito. They had no idea of my plans. I presented them with their 1st Black Belts and told them that they where under no obligation to anyone and that if John was still alive both of them would have gotten their Black Belts. I also gave Anthony a Diploma that was signed by me and by them awarding the rank of Sandan (Posthumously) to his brother John Squadrito. Shortly after their promotion Francis X. Murray Jr. (Franny) was given his 1st Degree Black belt.
Over the years these instructors along with Renshi Jeff Craig, Shidoshi Ron Van Cliefs student, I have received the rank of Kyoshi.
My Son Ryan has seen John Glenn (Renshi-ACK) on numerous occasions at the Dolphin Gym that he runs and told him some bad news that Anthony Squadrito had passed away a short time ago in Florida. I will miss him.

Kyoshi71, do you know what style of Gung-Fu,and with whom Barathy learned from?

Like to hear from you. Just started researching some articles on Martial Arts. Started with ACK in 82. Left in 87. Richie, McCaffery, and Piccone were my teachers.

On the west coast now studying privately. Any info to contact Piccone would be honorable. If speaking direct, tell him the "paperboy"

Kyoshi71, do you know what style of Gung-Fu,and with whom Barathy learned from?

As a personal student of Kyoshi Barathy, I dont know of any style of Kung Fu that he was a practitioner of.

Like to hear from you. Just started researching some articles on Martial Arts. Started with ACK in 82. Left in 87. Richie, McCaffery, and Piccone were my teachers.

On the west coast now studying privately. Any info to contact Piccone would be honorable. If speaking direct, tell him the "paperboy"

I still speak to him. He's in Florida.

First I must tell you that I recently moved to Myrtle Beach, SC, but lived in my home in Levittown, NY for 42 years. I am 52 years old and married and have two sons who are Martial artists as well as multi-sport athletes. My youngest son Ryan is the general manager for Dolphin Fitness in Westbury, NY. When I started in the Lynbrook dojo during 1979 there where only four Brown belts. One was my Dojo brother George Milo’s and Tony Bovee, Don Brown (Shodan Tai-Zen) and one guy I saw maybe once or twice. Shortly after Jeff Guarini and Ricky Defino received their brown belts and it would be some time before I saw another promotion. John Squadrito and Ricky Levelle, Joe (Carver) Amoraroso (Renshi-Tai-Zen) and Juan where still Yellow belts when I joined. When I received my green belt that is when the whole picture changed. A black belt from Grand Master Peter Urban wanted bouncers to work for him at a night club in Islip named Hammerheads. This was when I was really permitted to grow. That’s when Sensei Romeo took me under his wing. John Squadrito and Ricky Levelle at this time where just teenagers and I, along with Franny my best friend and one of my Black Belts, maybe you remember him, he had really long red hair who and happens to be John Glenn’s cousin would drive them back to Wantagh after class. They would jump on the train in Wantagh and hide in the bathroom or walk from car to car to avoid paying, they were just kids. I felt bad so I would drive them home. Shortly after starting at Hammerheads John Squadrito called me and wanted to go visit Sensei Willing.
Jon Brown a big 300 pound student and friend of mine that joined ACK from Levittown joined us to see Sensei Willing and we went to pick up John Squadrito at his parents new home in Plainview. His brother Anthony answered the door and I was shocked to find out John had a brother. The reason he never mentioned him to us was because Anthony worked out The Malverne School of Self Defense (Chinese- Goju). I later found out that the owner of this school at one time was a business partner of Kyoshi Barathy and there was bad blood between them. Later Anthony was at tournament and was impressed with Renshi Finnegan (Kyoshi-Tai-Zen) so he joined American Combat Karate. Anthony received his brown belt along with me and Ritchie Crawfage (Renshi-ACK) and Alex Rivera (Renshi- ACK) and the meanest man I ever met, Artie Miller who when he passed away, Chuck Zito from the Hells Angels came to the funeral at O’Reilly’s on Long Island. Soon after getting the job at Hammerheads, Franny and I would be invited to Kyoshi Barathy’s House in Bethpage where he lived with Sensei Romeo and Willing. Around the time that the Huntington School was being built Kyoshi Barathy, Sensei Paul DeAngelo and Sensei Romeo with Ricky Difino moved to Huntington Bay. Then Sensei Romeo offered me a job at The Ritz, a night club in Manhattan. That’s when I met Artie Miller he was a Purple belt for God knows how many years. Sensei McCaffrey and Ricky Defino also worked with us.
That is when I met Sensei Jeff Craig; Bam-Bam was his nickname. Jeff was a child black belt under Grandmaster Ron Van Clief; He was big and strong and was put in to a Karate System that came out of Alphabet City in the lower part of Manhattan by his mother who wanted to toughen him up. That’s when we met the Hells Angels and Chuck Zito and Barathy started to bring Jerry Cooney into the city.

Soon after that gig, Jeff went to work at Studio 54 and I went there with him along with Larry Brown one of my friends from Levittown and the brother of Big Jon Brown. My friend Franny and his brother Kevin got jobs in the Electrical division of the club. When I got my Purple Belt, Larry Brown got us a job at The Roxy Roller Disco which was a big time night club on the west side of Manhattan. Jeff Craig, Franny Murray and George Milo’s from ACK came to work with us. This Club was owned by a man named Steven Greenburg who was a personal friend of Chuck Zito. He would become very friendly with our crew and Larry Brown (White Belt ACK) who for a short while ran the security at the club. After the club changed hands I went to work at the Huntington school for a while on the weekends and Sensei Romeo introduced me to a personal friend of the black belts, a character named Lenny Z. Lenny Z owned a bar supply company and had a lot of contacts. Based on Sensei Romeos recommendation Lenny Z got me a job working with him at An vine’s in Farmingdale, NY. He worked security with me but never spent five minutes at the door. He was a real character. Around this time Kyoshi Barathy started bringing Mark Gastineau from the Jets to An Vines to check things out. Soon summer arrived and it was time for the seminars that where the highlight of the season. All I can say is Pain Pain Pain. Myself along with the names I mentioned eariler recieved their brown belts. All the existing brown belts had stripes removed from their belts.
Sparring with Sensei Paul DeAngelo his toenail pierced my eyelid and I had to drive home like that. Getting my Brown Belt made me forget how much it hurt.
Things went along the same for a while and every summer at the seminars we would lose a stripe off of our brown belts. We all caught up to George Milo’s and the rest of the brown belts and no one made Black belt while I trained with them. Then I was called to enter the New York City Police Department. While I was in the Academy some of the Instructors where Martial Artists and they could tell I had some training and requested that while I was on probation I should stay away from training that could get me injured and lose my job. While at the Academy a revolution was under way in the American Combat System. Some of the Black belts felt that Kyoshi Barathy had stopped teaching them and was spending too much time with celebrities. They started training with Master Teague in Selden and where very happy with what they had learned. Soon all hell broke lose and the system began to split. When I decided to return to training I was torn. Because of Sensei Romeo I went to Tai-Zen. Now the confusion to me at the time was that all the black belts 2nd, 3rd and 4th degree were demoted by Master Teague to Shodan rank. I began training with them at a catering hall in Huntington and soon they opened a Dojo in Levittown, my home town. At first Master Teague allowed us to keep our Brown Belts but we could not wear black Gi’s like his Brown Belts. Also no rank of purple belt was observed so all of them went back to Green. It seemed like a good deal since all these Ju-jitsu techniques were new to us. Soon I had both of my sons in the class and things were going well. After I while I was promoted to Brown belt in Tai-Zen and received my first Diploma after close to 8 years in these systems. Soon I lost interest in the system and began to attend less and less. During this time I still kept in contact with George Milo’s and Anthony Sqaudrito
John and Anthony’s parents had a home on the water in Massapequa and they allowed me to keep my boat there. When Anthony got married George Milo’s and I were in his Wedding party. One day John mentioned that he was opening a dojo in Massapequa at the Gym that Amy Fisher met Joey Buttafuco. My two sons and George Milo’s along with John’s brother Anthony went to the new school and it was great. John Squadrito and John Glenn where always there and it was hardcore. My sons loved the class and got such a thrill when they got their first stripe on their white belts. One night Renshi Bacci and Renshi Paul DeAngelo with his son PJ came to the Dojo and promoted John to Sandan, he went crazy and punched a hole in the wall. Mark Linchner the Hollywood rat was there and John had told me that sometime ago he had given Mark his Black Belt. This was a surprise to all of us but all of us where so happy for John that no one said anything and I never heard about it again. I can’t recall how much time had passed but one day we received news that John had passed away. My Wife and I along Franny and George Milo’s went to the church and sat with His Family and John Glenn and it was heartbreaking. After I retired I needed a job and like most Cops, I started driving limos. One night while dropping off some people at the Palladium in NYC I saw Renshi Jeff Craig working out front.
We talked for a while and he told me that he was now a 4th Degree Black belt (Renshi) under Ron Van Clief. He also said that he needed more armed people at the club since last Thanksgiving he was shot at the door and one of his doormen Marcus from Coney Island had been killed. I took the job. This was the best crew I had ever worked with and much to my surprise one day Grandmaster Ron Van Clief came to work with us and I became his partner. Now you have to understand that since Jeff got shot our priority was to protect him. He ran the door and made all the decisions. This was a very dangerous position and with our backing things went smoothly. One of Jeff’s dojo brothers and a student of Ron’s is Taimak from the movie the last dragon. For a short while he worked with us. All this time I still went to the Gym in the mornings and worked a couple of nights at the club. Ron Van Clief (10th degree Red Belt) was familiar with Kyoshi Barathy and he was a Godan when Barathy was a student in The Nisei-Goju system. He requested that I train with him with his personal students at his home Dojo in Manhattan. It was an offer I could not refuse. He permitted me to wear my Brown belt and soon promoted me to the Rank of Shodan.
I trained with him every night before work and we became lifelong friends.
After a year or so the Palladium closed and was turned into dormitories for NYU.
I started working at a night club in Bethpage; Long Island called Summertime’s when Franny told me that some of the guys we grew up with wanted to start training in the martial arts. He told them that he could not teach them because he was still a purple belt and they could learn more from me. At around the same time my sons Justin and Ryan had told me about a Ju-jitsu school near our home that looked pretty good. They asked if they could join and I said sure. This Dojo had boxing and Judo and karate and the head instructor was a third Generation Martial artist from England. He was the type of guy who came from a dojo in Europe where all your promotions came from the fights you had after class in the pub above the school. This reminded me of the original ACK school in the basement of Lock, Stock and Barrel in Elmont. I watched his class and I was sold that this guy was good. My sons seemed enthusiastic and they really liked the Judo instructor Ralph who was from a great School in Baldwin.
Both never lost a Judo match except when they fought each other, my oldest son Justin choked out Ryan to win the finals. My wife was not happy. I struck up a friendship with him and he asked me to teach in his school. This was not something that I was used to but as I met more and more Martial Artists they seemed to have more of an open door policy.
It was more about exchanging information than ego. Before I could commit to something like this I felt that I must at least ask permission from Shidoshi Ron Van Clief. He was very supportive and stated that at my age I should not have to ask anyone for anything. But he did appreciate the respect. Then he told me that he was training to fight Joyce Gracie in the UFC. I wished him luck and had to give him credit at 51 to enter such a difficult challenge. Soon I was given a class to teach at the Dojo in Hicksville and before I knew what was happening I had my own classes, and my own system which we named The Fighting Dragons. American Combat had dragons as part of it system and Ron Van Clief was known as the Black Dragon and the School that I now rented space at used a Dragon from the flag of Wales in Great Britton. It seemed appropriate. While renting space from this Dojo in Hicksville I met many other Instructors from all over The United States and Europe and even some Ju-jitsu Instructors from Japan.
During this time I was introduced to Soke Michael DePasquale and his Son Michael Junior.
These men permitted me to become a member of the International Federation of Practicing Jujitsuans. They also sponsored me into the Gold Shield Society which is for Law Enforcement Martial Artists.
Two weeks after receiving my Third degree Black Belt I had a party at my home in Levittown and invited George Milo’s and Anthony Squadrito. They had no idea of my plans. I presented them with their 1st Black Belts and told them that they where under no obligation to anyone and that if John was still alive both of them would have gotten their Black Belts. I also gave Anthony a Diploma that was signed by me and by them awarding the rank of Sandan (Posthumously) to his brother John Squadrito. Shortly after their promotion Francis X. Murray Jr. (Franny) was given his 1st Degree Black belt.
Over the years these instructors along with Renshi Jeff Craig, Shidoshi Ron Van Cliefs student, I have received the rank of Kyoshi.
My Son Ryan has seen John Glenn (Renshi-ACK) on numerous occasions at the Dolphin Gym that he runs and told him some bad news that Anthony Squadrito had passed away a short time ago in Florida. I will miss him.


George just sold me my gym membership. You promoted him in Chinese Goju?

What Gym does George work in? I gave him his black belt some time ago as I stated in the last posting.

What Gym does George work in? I gave him his black belt some time ago as I stated in the last posting.

When you promoted him wasnt my question. As I stated in my last posting, I was curious if it was Chinese Goju?

Synergy Fitness

What Gym does George work in? I gave him his black belt some time ago as I stated in the last posting.

I'm glad that you mentioned how Linchner got promoted because there's always been a shroud of mystery surrounding it for us. Last time I saw him, he was wearing a red-up Renshi belt (Godan) and claimed to have created his own system. I'll spare you the name of the system because you'll laugh too hard. Usually when all our upper ranks get together for a few beers, I'll let everyone get nice & sauced up and bring up Linchners fighting system. There's always belly laughs and beer being spit all over the place for about twenty minutes after.

Hey folks!? I am VERY happy that I found this site.
I trained briefly with Renshi Impellizieri at Elmont-long enough to earn my stripe on my white belt. Unfortunately, I couldnt continue with training due to work and family commitments.
Renshi Impellizieri is a GREAT person to know and train with. He was also my old boss at work-so we trained and worked together. He was a great friend to me and I am lucky to know him tru the years. Unfortunately we lost touch due to me having my daughter and him having new business ventures.
I would love to go back to training seriously and just getting back into ACK.
Please email me of time and places/cost to pd954rr@gmail.com. Im out in Suffolk,LI so let me know!!

Cheers,
Pat

When Mark Linchner showed up at Johns dojo in Massapequa he had two stripes on his belt and John Had only one. That also seemed strange!!!

I can't believe I found this site. Yes Richie was one bad MO-FO !! Last time I saw him was in the 70s in a bar ( Chanel 80 ) He knew me from ACK with Sen Sei Warren Montegnino ( Oceanside ) which he had recently switched over to. He had purchased a A&P supermarket I think in Lynbrook and turned it into a HUGE Dojo! I remember his Red White and Blue Gi and lightning speed. Wow 30yrs and like it was yesterday.The only man faster was SenSei Tague but he was on another planet! This is this first I've heard that Richie had passed away. Anyone here from the old ACK days in Oceanside? Mike Higgins, Terry Crew,Crazy Roger Offner. man I can go on forever! Good memories!

I was actually a white belt when American Combat was started by Sen Sei Warren Montegnino. Tiring of dealing with Korea he switched from Moo Duk Quan. We worked out in Island Park in a 100 yr old Parish with very hard wooden floors. Full contact no pads. We then moved to renting space in a Dance studio in Oceanside. Word got out and people like Ritchie B came to check out this new "Street " style. This was around 1972. The rest is history!

Back Problems not Hip. LIGHTNING!

WOW! Great story! Brings back a lot of memories! Also 52 YO now living in FL since 1979 and not much for flying around a Dojo anymore, but try keeping in shape. Rich was a wild man with enourmous talent! I went with him when he was checking out the A&P in Lynbrook to turn into a DOJO,,,weight room and all. Last time we hung out we got into a bar room brawl and I had the pleasure of watching him clean the place with 5-6 as--hol-s that were stupid enough to start with him! LOL!!! I really didn't have to help! I'm sorry to hear he passed away. His heart was good! ( But didn't take Crap) :)
Anyone know Chris Constantine??? 90lbs of amazingness!

When you speak with George tell him I said hello
Thanks, Paul

WOW! Great story! Brings back a lot of memories! Also 52 YO now living in FL since 1979 and not much for flying around a Dojo anymore, but try keeping in shape. Rich was a wild man with enourmous talent! I went with him when he was checking out the A&P in Lynbrook to turn into a DOJO,,,weight room and all. Last time we hung out we got into a bar room brawl and I had the pleasure of watching him clean the place with 5-6 as--hol-s that were stupid enough to start with him! LOL!!! I really didn't have to help! I'm sorry to hear he passed away. His heart was good! ( But didn't take Crap) :)
Anyone know Chris Constantine??? 90lbs of amazingness!

I have met Chris Constantine. Black Belt in Isshin Ryu who I met through Perry Ferlise.

When you speak with George tell him I said hello
Thanks, Paul


I'll tell George you said hello next time I break his balls about the gym, that he sold me a membership to, not being opened yet. He's a character.

Perry was a great guy! His brother Mike was my age, also a black belt, very cool. They both came over to ACK from Tracy's in RVC. ( Kenpo) Made there rank by Warren Montegnino in ACK around 1975 -76. Then they opened a Dojo in Oceanside. I could never get away from Perry's reverse punch!
I can't believe it's over 30 yrs since I've seen these guys!

Perry was a great guy! His brother Mike was my age, also a black belt, very cool. They both came over to ACK from Tracy's in RVC. ( Kenpo) Made there rank by Warren Montegnino in ACK around 1975 -76. Then they opened a Dojo in Oceanside. I could never get away from Perry's reverse punch!
I can't believe it's over 30 yrs since I've seen these guys!

He too lives in Florida

I'm so glad to finally see Warrens' name here! After all he started the whole ACK thing! Being in the very first class I am proud that people are still talking about something that was started in 1972 in a broken down Parish in Island Park!

During the late seventies and early eighties ACK had seminars at a farm in Milford Pennsylvania. After training outdoors all day we would all eat together and get to know all the black belts better because we were outside of the Dojo. Kyoshi Barathy would talk for hours about any thing that we asked him about. He once told us a story about a guy that had started trouble at a club he was working at. When they got him to leave he came back with a knife. A woman screamed watch out he has a knife. Kyoshi responded (“I see it lady, I got an EYE”). Well not everyone at the seminar realized he had one eye.
Those that did saw the humor that he had.

During the late seventies and early eighties ACK had seminars at a farm in Milford Pennsylvania. After training outdoors all day we would all eat together and get to know all the black belts better because we were outside of the Dojo. Kyoshi Barathy would talk for hours about any thing that we asked him about. He once told us a story about a guy that had started trouble at a club he was working at. When they got him to leave he came back with a knife. A woman screamed watch out he has a knife. Kyoshi responded (“I see it lady, I got an EYE”). Well not everyone at the seminar realized he had one eye.
Those that did saw the humor that he had.

Hysterical! What a sense of humor on that man.

Hysterical! What a sense of humor on that man.
Me again. Anyword on Percival ?

Me again. Anyword on Percival ?

What do you want to know?

I found a web site for ACK dojo in Levittown, when I asked my son if it was still there he said it had closed. What happened?

Kyoshi Pastore, congratulations. I heard Shidoshi promoted you and saw your name on his his directory.
Chien,
Sensei James (Palladium)

I found a web site for ACK dojo in Levittown, when I asked my son if it was still there he said it had closed. What happened?

I always hear different stories regarding that school. I think that Joe Impellizierri moved the school's location. His newest website is:
www.acklevittown.com (http://www.acklevittown.com)

Kyoshi71Thanks, I think that is the same location that Tai-Zen was located before they moved across the turnpike and into the East Meadow border. But I think that it has closed.

Sensei James,
Long time since I heard from you. Do you ever see Renshi Craig or his brother Dywane? Last time I saw or heard from them was when we worked with my son Justin at Webster Hall. Thanks for the congrats.
Keep me posted.

No I have not seen them, but I saw that the TV show 20/20 just ran a special on Jeff getting shot and Marcus getting killed at the Palladium.

Just want to let you all know that the Levittown school is still open, and hollding classes for adults on Monday Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Rensei Impellizieri is the head instructor, and it is in the same location as Romeo's first school.

Kyoshi71, did we train together at Rensei Rocco's?

Just want to let you all know that the Levittown school is still open, and hollding classes for adults on Monday Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Rensei Impellizieri is the head instructor, and it is in the same location as Romeo's first school.

Kyoshi71, did we train together at Rensei Rocco's?

If I knew who you were, I could answer that with some accuracy. However, if you trained at Renshi Rocco's, the answer is most likely yes.

Just want to let you all know that the Levittown school is still open, and hollding classes for adults on Monday Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Rensei Impellizieri is the head instructor, and it is in the same location as Romeo's first school.

Kyoshi71, did we train together at Rensei Rocco's?

Funny Public Profile. Who gave you your "Pink Belt?"

Hello all. It’s Gene Perceval

Just by chance I happen to come across this web site.

My name is Grand Master Gene Perceval, I have been in the Martial arts since 1955, and am currently still active in the arts. I don’t know where to begin this letter so I will just start from the beginning and write, and I’m sure that there will be much left out. Eventually I will get to my relationship with Richard Barathy.

I have known Warren Montenegrin and still do for over 50 or more years. When I returned from Korea as a 2nd Dan in Tae Kwon Do (which I was the first person to ever be tested in that style back Sunday April 18,1965) I started teaching Warren privately in his home, (we were long time friends with common interests). As time passed ,Warren passed his first degree black belt test and became my first black belt student. Warren was rather short about 5’5 or so, but, he was also a body builder and was built like a tree trunk. The time eventually came when Warren wanted to teach the martial arts, of course it was the style in which I taught him, Tae kwon Do Moo Duck Klan. Warren since I known him from his lifting days always had a bad back, and being that Korean karate involved all types of kicks, and Warren was of short stature, he would always try to kick above his natural chamber on side kicks. As a result, his back would constantly go out and he suffered most of the time.

One weekend I went to visit another one of my black belt students Forest Blair, who currently is a Master and still teaching in New Jersey. During that weekend we went to McGuire Air Force base to practice early in the morning, there was still dew on the grass, well we both went in the air and came down together and he landed on top of me at the edge of the cement walkway, as a result I broke my left clavicle bone. This put me in a cast for along time and also put me out of the martial arts for months. Warren was never happy with the style of Tae kwon Do and decided to move from teaching at the church parish in Island park to Rose Dance studio on Long Beach Road In Oceanside. There Warren asked if he could change the style from Tae Kwon Do to his own style and make some changes to fit his posture. I agreed, and he named the style “American Combat Karate”

The major changes were he made all his kicks from the hips and down and his punches from the hips up. He followed a logical street type of fighting, where getting in close and mixing it up was as real as it gets. Take downs were powerful, and since than Warren never had a problem with his back. One of Warren’s original students was Frank Finnegan, (hope I spelt it correctly) eventually Warren moved to Florida and Frank remained and connected with Richard Barathy. Going back to the story. Eventually there was some time in my Martial arts carrier when I met with Richard Barathy at Warren’s school. Barathy had a small school, I don’t remember the exact location or the town, it may be West Hempstead (not sure) but it was a small strip store where he taught. Eventually, he opened a karate school in Valley Stream and seem to do well there, I noticed a lot of his students still keeping touch and know them on what they write, they know who each other is and who there are. “Hi guys long time no see” .

I remember one evening several of us went with Barathy where he had interest in renting an old Super Market in Lynbrook. As we all looked, we seen it was a mess, but, with a little imagination and a lot of hard work, it had potential with possibilities. Well it happened. Richard Barathy took over the old super market and we all chipped in to help make it a martial arts school along with a gym in the front, it was called: RAB’S for Richard A. Barathy. The school took off nicely, eventually on Thursday nights I would have my night and taught the traditional martial arts for those who had type of interest, and all the other times, American Combat was taught. Brings back some wonderful memories, a great bunch of guys. Because I was a little older than everyone else, and been in the arts for many years, I was and was not part of the guys, our interest were the same as far as the martial arts goes, but outside of that we had different ideas and thoughts, yet we always respected each other for what we really were, true martial artists, no bull or phony crap.

Eventually, as time passed, my martial arts carrier turned to a different direction and I no longer worked out or trained at RAB’s. A few times I went with the guys to Howard Tague’s school, but not as often as the other guys, so, I remember very little about that.

I am now 67 and over my many, many years, a lot of black belts have passed away, and it is a shame that I only find out afterwards by chance. I would have found it an honor to be present at his funeral. I know over Richard Barathy’s last years I did not have any contact with him, but, when ever I would see one of the guys, I would always ask how he was doing and give my regards.

How did I see and view Richard Barathy: I do have to laugh inside, he brought back some eventful memories, he was a great guy, he would give you the shirt off his back if you needed one, he would go out of his way for you, and he what you would call a true friend. Either he liked you or he didn’t. He took his martial arts very seriously, which I held the highest respect for, not many people that I can still say that for today. Yes, for those who knew him, he was bigger than life, and was always the center of attention. I enjoyed my time with him, and on occasions, I do recall old times. Richard Barathy did leave us all with a very special gift, his memories and the times he shared with us while on this earth.

I hope I did not intrude his web site in his memory, and as for myself, I am not a sleeping master, I am still very active in the martial arts and teach one night a week and train 5 nights a week. I have been writing a book about the martial arts for over 4 years with 2 of my master students, and the 3 inch book should be published sometime within the next 100 years. If interested in anything that may bring back old history and memories, I can be reached at Bushido40@aol.com Please state who you are, I do receive aalot of spam.
ENJOY BYE.

Thanks to this fourm as was able to reach out to Master Percerval, and relive the days when "Martial Arts" was in its infancy.
Although I no longer practice, due to health reasons I like keeping up.
Thank you everyone.

Robert A. Moller/
/ AKA Burnerbob

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.

I wanted to collect my thoughts before commenting on your statement concerning my friend and former Instructor. First of all you never met this man and have no concept of his capabilities or the countless lives that he touched with his personality and never say die attitude. Kyoshi Richie Barathy was not someone who let any of his physical conditions (losing his eye, spleen, Lupus and a heart attack) prevent him from excelling in his art. He did not choose the name American Combat Karate but he surely made the name famous. When I say his art, which is what American Combat evolved into after his taking over the system. As far as the Red, White and Blue Gi with Stars. This uniform was worn by Joe Lewis and countless demo teams across this nation and since American Combat Karate was truly an American fighting style it was appropriate. I only wish he was around so you could question his way of doing things in person.

Karjitsu and Kyoshi,

It is admirable that you think of Barathy so highly. I do admire loyalty. However, you both see Barathy as the epitome of the benefits of brutal training and ability to hang with and defeat the best. I see him as a bad-ass wannabe who seem to have issues. You don't deny my allegations that he bastardized traditional martial arts to conform to some ignorant American mentality regarding what they should be: no philosophy, no forms, only concerned with beating people down. In the process he merely confirmed the notion that many people in the Orient have of us: the Ugly American who bastardizes martial arts just so he can be a better ass-kicker.
And as for my rank, you don't know me or my training history. To assume that my training or technique is lacking simply because I don't share your philosophies is ignorance at it's worst. And to say that I'd only be a yellow belt is so and so's organization is laughable. Who is this guy and what's he ever done?
I apologize for any issues people might have with my language. I just thought it needed to be said.

If I wanted to learn Philosophy, I'd go back to college. If I wanted to learn to baby sit and count in Korean, I'd join TKD.

Man!! I am going to ask my sahbonim for my money back!! I haven't learned a lick of babysitting at my TKD school. :shrug:

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Its a good thing we didnt keep medicine traditional

This Is for Paul Pastore. This is Renshi Willing, contact me at renshimatt@aol.com

I guess everyone's entitled to their opinion. Central to all styles is the respect we have for the art and for others. ACK students learn that respect the easy way or the hard way. But they are all a respectful bunch that would go out of their way to help another. I was not fortunate to have 20 consecutive years training but I can tell you this, all of the black belts in the system are inherently good people and I'd want them on my side in any situation. Respect of the art, of power, of all that stuff, is still respect - Kyoshi Barathy had unbelievable hurdles to get to where he got but he got there; for that alone, nobody has the right to use the terms like side-show. From Lynbrook to East Rockaway and Levittown today, his spirit is in his students; that alone says enough.

To anyone who believes Kyoshi Barathy "removed the philosophy" from Martial Arts, obviously never had the privilege of talking to him.
That said, PJ DeAngelo here, son of Renshi Paul DeAngelo.
I just came across this forum, scanned through the posts. I'm sure I know most people here, but do not know the names behind the screen names.
Please contact me or post with your names.
I'm going to go back and read everything!

Hi everyone, it's Gene Perceval again.

This was taken from page 8 from a person who stated the following in reference to Martial Arts Talk on Richard Barathy.
I only knew about Richard Barathy from the magazine articles he was in. Unfortunately, the American flag uniform he wore did not impress me. My personal opinion is that he took traditional martial arts, removed the philosophy, and turned it into a circus side show. For that, I have little respect for him. But again, that's just my personal opinion.

Gene's statement:
Being that I worked out with, and was friends with and knew him well enough to state the following:
Never talk bad about someone who cannot defend himself, so, I will take that as an insult in Richard Barathy’s behalf.

In my attic, I still have the old heavy canvas Stars and Stripes uniform that I wore at Barathy’s school, both in Valley Stream and in Lynbrook where it was once an old A&P supermarket before it became RAB’S. I am in the Martial arts 52 + years and studied with the original founders in the Martial arts when I was living in the Orient. To a certain degree, I do agree with a small portion of the statement that the person wrote in the above statement, that is: In my opinion, Richard Barathy took traditional martial arts, removed the philosophy. Richard was not from what I remembered a traditionalist in the martial arts, but his classes were as real to a life threatening situation as possible. Lets jump ahead to the year 2007 in the martial arts. If Richard Barathy were still with us, there is no question that he would be one of the teachers and or part of, the IFL International Fighting League or similar. What you see today on television or cable is exactly what Richard Barathy was teaching when he was teaching American Combat Karate, so, what is now popular, is just a spin off from what was taught to his black belts years ago.

Anyone who wished traditional martial arts, it was available at RAB’s school on Thursday evenings when I taught at his school. I wore my traditional uniform when I taught, and wore the Stars and Strips uniform as respect when ever Richard Barathy had the training floor.

Please try to understand Richard Barathy, he was what he was, just as you are what you are, each of us is what makes the world different. Richard Barathy did not live in a world of black, gray or white, but was a great believer in the American system, therefore the colorful Stars and Stripes, the fire on the breaking objects etc. Each of us are capable of being an entainer, Richard Barathy was not a "last week we covered that so this week we will cover this type of instructor. His classes and instructions were never boaring and always stimulated the mind as well as the constant physical challenge, what more can a true instructor offer his students.

Grand Master
Gene Perceval
Pioneer, founder

I can be reached at Bushido40@aol.com

Thank you Master Perceval,
I could not say it better myself..

What Sensi Barathay did was to take Karate a step further. We did not chastise Helio Gracie for changing the Japanese Jiu Jitsu that was taught to him, then why Sensi Barathy especially when you only read about him. The type of "Gi" one wears has no bearing on his ability. The "Stars and Stripes" Gi was to symbolize "American Combat Karate".
As far as "Grand Master" Perceval, I have been in touch with him and remembered when he was one of the distinguished Black-Belts that was present at Sensi DeMarco's GoJuRyu dojo when I tested for Green Belt over 30 years ago. He along with Sensi Barathy were and still are true legends of true "Bushido Spirit"

Nonetheless, I stand fully behind what I wrote. So far, everything that I've seen reinforces what I've mentioned. All I've seen so far are American students who simply take technique, strip it of philosophy or balance, add a healthy dose of xenophobia, and call it "American Combat Karate". Correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't karate designed for combat and self defense?
I'm all for adaptation and evolution. The Korean Tae Kwon Do of today is very unlike the "Korean karate" of yesteryear. Not better or worse, but different.
Taking Japanese karate or martial arts, stripping it down to simply a fighting style or way to hurt people, and packaging it as "American Combat Karate" is not evolution. It does nothing to advance martial arts, and simply shows contempt for the roots of karate.
And as for the uniform, if wearing the Stars and Stripes gi signifies nothing, then why do it? Obviously it signifies something or else it would not be used. Personally, I think it signifies this "America first" mentality I mentioned previously. It seems to be the ACK method of thumbing their nose at tradition; again, showing the xenophobia I mentioned previously.

Hi its Gene Perceval

It seems that no matter what is said about Richard Barathy, you have made your mind up and that I do respect you for. There is a problem here going back and forth, this discussion can and will reach a life of its own where tempers will arise and perhaps become insulting. I do not wish that to occur on Richard Barathy’s Martial Talk pages. Would I would like to see, is, direct questions and answers that can be productive and share what is unknown by those who did not know Richard Barathy personally.

As far as Peter Urban, who is also passed away, I knew him very well also. Trying to remember back, Peter Urban was a good hand and fist fighter, he and Gary Alexander (who was known for his leg techniques) were matched against each other several times, they (back then) were the great fights. Peter Urban, was a 4th degree black belt in the Go Ju system originated from Japan and went to Japan for his 5th degree testing. I may be incorrect, but, as I remember (which only a few knew) Peter Urban did not pass his 5th Dan test or had a disagreement over there and came back upset. As a result, he broke away from the Japanese Goju and started a path his own way of thought calling it American Goju. The rest is history.

I see the glass half full, not half empty, Enjoy, that is what this is all about.

Thank you for letting me express my feelings. By the way, I have been writing a book on the martial arts for the last 4 years, with luck, I hope it will be finished by the end of this year, it is rather thick.

Gene Perceval

I apologize for writing this in a column about Sensi Barathy. Master Perceval is correct this should be moved.

I have met many "KoreanMasters" who boast a 10th Dan, and when I bring up the fact that Gen.ChoiHee who founded "Tae Kwon Do" only issued up to 9th degree, their answer is This is my style of Tae Kwon Do
As far as O'Sensei Urban, he attained the rank of 6th Dan. This was told to me personally by Yamaguci while I was in Japan.
There was a disagreement with Sensi Urban and Gosei Yamaguci, the son of the founder as to who should be the US reprsentive of GoJu.
He challanged Urban to a "Death Match, which he lost however Urban would not kill him for respect to Yamaguci Master.

Didn't answer my question. I asked if Peter Urban declared himself 10th Dan. Yes, I know many Korean Instructors declare themselves rank they are not and have phoney certificates printed up stating as such. It doesn't make it any more right when they do it. Be careful who you associate with.
Anyway, it is one thing to disagree with someone who disagrees with your training methods or philosophy. Calling someone arrogant and ignorant because they disagree with your methods is immature and shows a lack of wisdom. I don't agree with some of the methods used by many of the Instructors in our organization. However, we still agree on enough things and root principles that we get along.
You admire, respect, and follow the things Barathy taught. That's fine. It doesn't mean we all have to or should.
By the way, it's "Sensei" not "Sensi". Which begs the question: if Barathy turned his back on the Japanese roots of his "style" to create an "American style", why even use the term "Sensei"?

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Didn't answer my question. I asked if Peter Urban declared himself 10th Dan. Yes, I know many Korean Instructors declare themselves rank they are not and have phony certificates printed up stating as such. It doesn't make it any more right when they do it. Be careful who you associate with.
Anyway, it is one thing to disagree with someone who disagrees with your training methods or philosophy. Calling someone arrogant and ignorant because they disagree with your methods is immature and shows a lack of wisdom. I don't agree with some of the methods used by many of the Instructors in our organization. However, we still agree on enough things and root principles that we get along.
You admire, respect, and follow the things Barathy taught. That's fine. It doesn't mean we all have to or should.
By the way, it's "Sensei" not "Sensi". Which begs the question: if Barathy turned his back on the Japanese roots of his "style" to create an "American style", why even use the term "Sensei"?
Excuse my spelling Sensei Urban was granted that rank from the "Budokukai" headed by Grand Master Richard Kim and Mas Oyama.
Sensei Barathy did not denounce Japanese Tradition. Again ignorance and arrogance, not because you disagree with myself and others, rather from forming an opinion based on magazine articles. Not knowing and understanding those involved.

Thank you for clearing that up, I did not know the actual facts. But I do remember Peter Urban going to Japan and coming back not very happy.

Gene Perceval

Hey YoungMan,

What do you consider the "Art" in the term Martial Art?

That could be a thread in itself, and probably is. To me, among other things, it is allowing you to express grace, individuality, beauty, and philosophy through your practice of a particular style. Very hard to explain. It is NOT just a set of fighting techniques and hurting people.

Just curious but how do you know that Richard Barathy didn't do these things, or have these qualities? I don't believe that you ever met the man, so I don't know where you are getting your basis from.

In hopes of bringing the discussion back to one about Mr. Barathy and American Combat Karate, can anyone here provide a sample curriculum as taught by Mr. Barathy other than "full contact sparring" or "bastardizing tradition?"

I am authentically interested in this and can find disturbingly little information regarding it. Many pages ago it was said that he used a lot of repetition and the like but what was being repeated?

Were/are belts formally tested for or were they presented based on continual assessment? What is the belt structure? Katas or no (this is kinda unclear through the readings...)?

Thanks much!

Hello again, its Gene Perceval

As one aspect of the martial arts, Richard Barathy was a firm believer that a true martial artist should be fully capable of defending him/her self without any hesitation of thought. Thus, the no-thought concept. If one practices effectively and proficiently continuously, the motor control (activation of muscles) from constant stimulation builds a direct path to the neurons. Where no-thought is required which would slow down the reflex action. Such as riding a bike or driving a c