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Now, I am not sure when Tim actually started training but I was informed by Rocky Paswick that he tested Tim for his Brown belt and at that time Rocky was a 4th degree black belt, I just know it was maybe 12 years after my promotion that Tim Hartman got promoted to Datu. What was difficult to achieve in martial arts years ago is purchased openly today for those that may choose a different path other than “time honored training.” In reflection, I believe I did do just that, today it matters very little as I believe time in the arts, accomplishments, honor, integrity, and respect stand far above martial art ranks or titles. Over the early years of using the datu title, I shook my head and questioned the logic but people I admired such as Shishir Inocalla, Leonard Trigg, Sonny Umpad, Ted Lucaylucay assured me it was the honorable thing to accept his blessing and work hard to bring credibility to the title. In short, there were lots of physical challenges to stabilize that unheard (non-Filipino) use of status and title. Politically it was challenging and I was left to respond to many statements regarding an American using that title. I just know Professor dropped that “title bomb” on me and that was that, then and there I became the non-Filipino Datu. The certification was nothing I asked for or actually pursued, strangely enough, when promoted to “Datu” I didn’t even know what the term met, I’m not Filipino nor do I interpret Tagalog fluently, few westerners do. I didn’t pay for certification and I was not physically tested for the promotion to Datu. I believe this is why Professor decided my foundation in Arnis was established and made the decision he did. Prior to that time I trained in boxing, Isshinryu karate, Shotokan, YaoMun Kung Fu and trained with J.Cui Brocka in Combat Arnis who was directly under Ernesto Presas. When asked about Modern Arnis I responded, “I was actively involved in Modern Arnis since 1982 and promoted to Datu by Professor Presas in 1988.
#Sifu neil cauliffe professional
Initially I was just responding to simple questions but the interview quickly became fairly hot and active regarding my personal and professional opinions on the current state of martial arts in America. I didn’t understand why he needed to be involved but a few days later it became evident. It became evident he had nothing useful to say and said literally nothing for over an hour even when I personally addressed him well, maybe there was a “mouse squeak” but nothing of substance. I was rather surprised when my junior in age, life experience, and Modern Arnis, Datu Tim Hartman was sitting in on the interview. “Interview or a set up to call me a Liar?”Ī few weeks ago, I was requested to do an audio interview on FMAtalk I agreed.