Legends of Carolina Martial Arts

Join us on a journey through the fascinating world of martial arts with our guest, Mr Tony Thomas, one of the two most senior black belts in South Carolina. Listen in as Tony recounts his inspiring journey that began in 1966, sparked by Bruce Lee's performance in the Green Hornet television program. With no martial arts schools around, he and his friends trained in his backyard and at school with the help of their English teacher, Mr Lucius Fryerson. Mr Thomas' dedication and passion eventually led him to receive a Blackbelt at South Carolina State University.

Don't miss our enlightening discussion on the changing dynamics of martial arts practice. Mr Thomas shares how the movie Karate Kid played a significant role in drawing younger people to martial arts, shifting the ratio from 80% adults and 20% children to the opposite. We explore how martial arts can impart respect, discipline, and focus in children, and Mr Thomas' experience as a former school teacher adds another layer to this discussion. We also touch upon the evolution of safety measures in martial arts and his views on this change.

The conversation continues as he reflects on his martial arts journey and the various sources of inspiration that have fueled his path. He speaks fondly of his martial arts school that he and his wife established, and the remarkable evolution in the age range of practitioners over the years. Wrapping up our chat, Mr Thomas talks about the importance of timing and entrepreneurial spirit in his journey, and his impending induction into the Hall of Fame. Join us in honoring this martial arts legend as he generously shares his remarkable story.

In this engaging discussion, we are joined by martial arts legend, Brian Pena, who opens up about his inspiring journey from a baseball-loving kid to a martial arts icon. Revealing how a passion for baseball led him to the world of Karate and how it became something he could truly own as a young boy. Listen as he shares his training experience as a young man, his competition days, his constant drive to outdo his rivals, and the way Martial Arts has blessed his entire family.

In this episode we delve into his competitive journey, discussing the impact it had on him. He opens up about the arrogance and ego he developed along the way, his love for black clothing, and the confidence he gained from his wins at the Super Grands and the Battle of Atlanta. He also speaks about the impact of Martial Arts on his business and personal life, how his family has changed him, and the challenges of balancing parenthood and leadership. We also talk about Karate as an art and a sport, the need for professionalism. This is an episode you don't want to miss.

Welcome to a mesmerizing and enlightening conversation with a martial artist who has carved his name in history, John Chung. As he walks us through his incredible life journey from a 12-year-old immigrant from South Korea to a world champion martial artist in the US, you will find yourself captivated by his tenacity, resilience, and sheer love for martial arts. His childhood experiences, early competitions, and the intense rivalry between the East and West Coast teams will make you relive the golden era of martial arts in the 70s.

--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS ---------

(0:00:01) - Chung's Martial Arts Journey From Korea

(0:09:34) - Early Martial Arts Experiences and Competitions

(0:21:15) - The Journey to Becoming a Champion

(0:36:52) - Forms Rivalry and Martial Arts Showmanship

(0:50:01) - Martial Arts Journey and Achievements

(0:58:54) - Reflections on Martial Arts and Teaching

(1:14:40) - Appreciation and Wedding Anniversary Celebration

Episode with Tony Young, going through his career from the beginning to today. How he went from small Karate tournaments to sponosrships to fighting on the world stage.

Tony Young began karate at the age of 12 and earned his Black Belt 4 years later. Tony Young is now a 7th degree Black Belt in the Goju Ryu style of karate. Tony Young was named the National Super Light Weight Karate Champion for 19 consecutive years. Tony Young has won over 1000 championship awards and prizes throughout his career. In 1997, Tony Young retired from international and national competition to focus on community affairs, business and tournament promotions. In 1985 Tony Young opened the Tony Young All-Star Karate Academy to teach and make a difference in the community. Mr. Young’s overall goal is to make individuals aware of the need to develop his/her minds and bodies. Mr. Young works with Public and Private Schools in the Atlanta area. Mr. Young has also developed working relations with Billy Blanks, who is the creator and owner of Tae-Bo Aerobics. Mr. Young is certified by Billy Blanks to teach Tae-Bo Aerobics to children and adults.

In this Episode of the Legends of Carolina Martial Arts podcast we talk with the one and only Jay Bell and are joined by special guest Magic Johnson.

In this Episode of the Legends of Carolina Martial Arts podcast we talk with Lawrence McSwain and are joined by special guest Magic Johnson.

Beginning Karate in 1966 and achieving Blackbelt in 1970 Mr. Lawrence McSwain is a true Legend of the Martial Arts in the Carolina's and beyond. 

The Legends of Carolina Martial Arts is a non-political organization created to honor, each year, a small group of Blackbelts (from the 1960’s, 1970’s, 1980’s, and 1990’s) who have impacted Martial Arts through the Carolinas in a positive manner!

The Legends of Carolina Martial Arts is a non-political organization created to honor, each year, a small group of Blackbelts (from the 1960’s, 1970’s, 1980’s, and 1990’s) who have impacted Martial Arts through the Carolinas in a positive manner!

The Legends of Carolina Martial Arts is a non-political organization created to honor, each year, a small group of Blackbelts (from the 1960’s, 1970’s, 1980’s, and 1990’s) who have impacted Martial Arts through the Carolinas in a positive manner!

The history of Jerome 'Magic' Johnson, discussions on Karate-do, and other figures of Legend in Martial Arts.

The history of Hanshi Jerry Piddington, discussions on Karate-do, and other figures of Legend in Martial Arts.