About the Instructors
Meet TUHON DURAND HOWARD,
Founder of Combat Kali Silat NJ
Tuhon Durand Howard is a highly accomplished martial artist and the founder of Combat Kali Silat NJ. His martial arts journey began in Newark, New Jersey, where he trained under various grandmasters, earning his first-degree black belt by 1981. Durand was introduced to Vee-Arnis-Jitsu by his cousin, Professor Ronald Howard and later to Pekiti Tirsia Kali by Tuhon Alan Dennis, focusing on practical fighting concepts. He further honed his skills under the mentorship of Grandtuhon Leo T. Gaje Jr., Grandmaster Jerson "Nene" Tortal, and Tuhon Tony McGregor. Recognized for his expertise, he was promoted to the rank of Tuhon, a prestigious title in the Pekiti Tirsia Kali system.
In 2010, Durand founded Combat Kali Silat NJ, combining Dekiti Tirsia Siradas, Pekiti Tirsia Kali, and the teachings of Grand Master Eddie Jafri of Silat. The system emphasizes practical self-defense techniques, making it accessible to a diverse range of practitioners, including seniors and women. Durand's dedication to martial arts is reflected in his numerous awards, including titles in the Garden State Games and the W.K.U. World Kumite Champion, and his induction into several martial arts halls of fame. He is currently planning to write a book on self-defense for seniors and women, focusing on the effectiveness of Combat Kali Silat for these groups.
Known for his meticulous instruction yet personable approach, Durand excels in communicating fundamental principles in an enjoyable manner.
Tuhon Tony McGregor
Tony McGregor has devoted over 30 years to training in Kali and Silat under Grandtuhon Leo T. Gaje and Grandmaster Jerson "Nene" Tortal. Tony is the last senior member of the New Jersey Kali Group. Upon Tuhon Charles Vickers' request, Tony continued Durand's training in Kali after Tuhon Dennis left the group. Tony had the unique opportunity to travel to the Philippines, where Grandtuhon Gaje arranged for him to train directly under his uncle, Grandmaster Jerson "Nene" Tortal. During this time, he acquired advanced concepts from Grandmaster Tortal and brought this knowledge back to the group. His profound understanding of both systems earned him a promotion to master instructor before he pursued his career as a dancer. At Tuhon Vickers' request, Tony completed Durand's education in the various systems of Kali. Subsequently, at Tuhon Durand's request, Tony assumed his role as the senior member of the Combat Kali Silat group and now teaches advanced classes within the group
Tuhon Derek "Skeet" McGee
Derek "Skeet" McGee brings a wealth of experience from his extensive career in law enforcement, spanning three decades as a State Correctional Officer. During his tenure, he also served for 10 years as a Defensive Tactical Instructor at Sea Girt Police Academy and as a member of the Special Operations Group (S.O.G.) for another decade. His extensive training in Kali Silat, which he has practiced for over 20 years, has been crucial in navigating the high-risk environments typical of correctional facilities. Correctional officers, like Derek, often face dangerous situations that can arise suddenly, dealing with life-threatening scenarios that require quick thinking and effective self-defense skills. His background in Kali Silat has not only been essential in ensuring his own safety but also that of his colleagues in such volatile settings. Derek's experience and training have been instrumental in mentoring members of the Combat Kali Silat group, imparting skills that are vital for handling the intense challenges faced in correctional environments.
A Message Regarding our Teachers
Grand Tuhon Leo T. Gaje Jr.
Grand Tuhon Leo T. Gaje Jr. is a renowned figure in the world of Filipino martial arts, particularly known for his mastery of Pekiti-Tirsia Kali. Born in the Philippines in 1938, he began learning Pekiti-Tirsia from his grandfather, Conrado Tortal, who founded the system in 1897. Gaje brought this martial art to the United States in 1972, where he expanded its reach, teaching it to martial artists, law enforcement, and military personnel worldwide. He is recognized for his significant contributions to close-quarters combat and edged weapon techniques, and he continues to teach and develop the system, maintaining its relevance and effectiveness in modern times
Grandmaster Jerson "Nene" Tortal
Grandmaster Jerson "Nene" Tortal is a prominent figure in Filipino martial arts, known for his expertise in Dekiti Tirsia Siradas, a combative system focusing on close-quarter combat with a strong emphasis on bladed and impact weapons. Born on June 13, 1937, Tortal's training began at a young age under the tutelage of his father, Balbino Tortal, and later his uncles Conrado and Francisco. His martial arts education was steeped in the family tradition, making Dekiti Tirsia Siradas not just a fighting style but a lineage of knowledge passed down through generations
Grandmaster Eddie Jafri
Grandmaster Eddie Jafri was a distinguished martial artist known for his expertise in Silat, a martial art originating from Southeast Asia. Jafri's influence extended beyond Silat, impacting other martial arts practitioners, including those in the Filipino martial arts community. His teachings emphasized the practicality and adaptability of martial arts techniques, making them accessible and effective for real-world self-defense. Jafri's legacy continues through his students and the martial arts systems he helped shape and promote
REVIEWS FROM OUR COMMUNITY
Highlights from Our Group
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