About the Editor

Shihan Holmes began his disciplineship of the Martial arts in a small dojo on 2nd and Dock Streets in Wilmington, North Carolina in 1969. Master Jerry Hobbs whom he chose to study under, today a Judan-Hanshi (Grand Master) 10th degree black belt, trained and graded in Japan, was teaching a traditional Japanese system of Testsu Ken Ryu Karate. Hobbs also offered training in Chinese and Okinawan systems. Sensei Holmes earned his first black in this Japanese system after three hard years of full contact, bare knuckle, bare footed, Kumite (Fighting). One year later, after cross training in a Chinese system, he received his black sash in Hong Chung (Kuen) Kung-Fu or Gung-Fu as some called it.

Holmes continued to study and train under Master Hobbs’ influence in Kempo, Jujitsu, Kobudo, and Okinawan Karate. In 1980, while on a return visit from Japan, Hobbs one again tested and cross graded Holmes to black belt in Okinawan Seidokan Karate. Years later he would receive a Nidan in Dentokan Jujitsu, and a Kyoshi title in Shorin Ryu Karate-Do.

Holmes also believes in being involved in his community. He is a member of the Leland Business Association, North Brunswick Chamber of Commerce, supports local sports, and participates in the Leland Christmas Parade.