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Founder's Background

Master Al Gauthier
Founder and President of K.M.A.R.A.

Master Al Gauthier began his Martial Arts study in 1973 under Grandmaster Soo Yong Cha. As a child he had a burning desire to study the Martial Arts and was inspired by the late Bruce Lee who played Kato on the Green Hornet TV series.

In 1977, Master Gauthier earned his first degree Black Belt. He would practice hard during this period, often seven days a week. Under Grandmaster Cha, he would develop a strong foundation in the arts of Tae Kwon Do, Hap Ki Do, and Ki Do.

After studying for ten years under Master Cha, he went on to study under several other Masters. One who was very inspirational to him was Grandmaster Myung Seok Seo. From Master Seo he learned Tang Soo Do, and the ancient art of Kwon Bop. Master Seo had extensive training under a high level Korean warrior monk.

Pictured here are some of the Masters that have influenced Master Gauthier in the development of his Martial Arts system.

In 1989, Master Gauthier joined the Prince George's County Police force in Maryland. As a police officer, he utilized his knowledge of Martial Arts to arrest violent aggressors. It was during these encounters that he was able to test the effectiveness of his techniques.

During his ten years of service he earned over a dozen letters of commendation and was awarded the Silver Medal of Valor for "unusual courage and bravery" during an encounter with an armed robber.

He was certified as a Police Instructor through the Maryland Police Training Commission. He spearheaded a special tactical unit that utilized police mountain bikes for patrol and special events. The valuable experience that Master Gauthier gained from his law enforcement background is reflected in the instruction of his real-life self defense techniques. The emphasis of modern combat instruction is on simplicity and effectiveness of the technique.

Master Gauthier has developed a professional staff of dedicated Martial Artists. He feels that review of the curriculum and advanced studies are important for instructors to maintain their knowledge and grow. All K.M.A.R.A. instructors are required to attend six in-service classes per year.

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Take a look at some photos of our staff and students in action.

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