Today we’d like to introduce you to Laura Gomez.
Hi Laura, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
I started training in karate at the age of 15, almost 50 years ago. I have consistently trained throughout my life.
My teacher was a 9th-degree black belt, which is the very top of the ranking system in martial arts. There are very few 9th in the world. They are known as Grandmasters. When he got Alzheimer’s, he requested that I take his place. Women are still not given that rank, but I was accepted and became the first 9th Degree Grandmaster in the world.
It has been a loving journey for me. Karate taught me to persevere and gave me incredible confidence, both of which have served me well.
I have owned Orion Martial Arts in San Marcos since 1982. Our goal has always been to make martial arts affordable to everybody and to teach kids self-confidence and self-esteem, and self-defense.
Now, I am in the process of starting a National organization, the Traditional Tang Soo Do Alliance.
My ultimate goal is to show girls that they, too, can achieve their goals in martial arts can reach the highest of ranks, and make a difference in people’s lives.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it has not been a smooth ride. I trained throughout high school and college, and jobs. I train through family tragedies and hardships. I train through injury after injury. I trained through everything that challenged me in life, and I still train. When life has kicked my feet out from under me, Tang Soo Do has given me the strength to continue.
Being in a male-dominated field, I trained hard for half the credit. But I didn’t let that stop me because I trained for the love of my Art and for what it has given me.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I teach kids and adults to believe in themselves through Martial Arts. I teach them how to not be victims to others or to what ruminates in their heads.
I am known for being an exceptional teacher.
I am most proud of the fact that I am still going strong and that my love for my art only keeps growing.
What sets me apart? I am a Grandmaster, and I have opened the door for girls to follow.
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My best childhood memory: I hated dolls and was always receiving them for birthdays and Christmas. One year, my parents got me an air rifle and a cowboy hat. That little gesture made all the difference!
Pricing:
- $95 per month for unlimited classes. The best and most affordable pricing around.
Contact Info:
- Website: orionmartialarts.com
- Instagram: Orion Martial Arts
- Facebook: Orion Martial Arts
Image Credits
Orion Martial Arts
