Kendall Blair
KENDALL BLAIR’S interest in the martial arts began at the age of 10. His passion for training was evident in his daily rituals: Practice each night at the gym, then home to continue training with his father in their garage, building skills by repeating drills. In the days before video games or computers and with only 3 stations on TV, his older brother gave him plenty of opportunity to work out the pragmatic elements of self-protection.
After moving to California, Kendall trained in Tae Kwon Do but soon felt limited by its sport styling. He then moved on to Kuk Sul for 4 years and enjoyed the diverse aspects of the art. In 1998 he trained with then 5-time UFC Champion Frank Shamrock at the Universal Submission Academy in San Jose. In 1999 he placed 14th in Amphibian Athletics Super Seal Fitness Challenge in Oceanside, California. From 1999 – 2003, Kendall trained with TFTT (Tactical Firearms Training Team) in various weapons courses, High Risk Environment Training and the four-day and night Combat Field Craft.
In 2001, after reading Richard Machowicz’s book “Unleash the Warrior Within,” Kendall signed up for his first Bukido® course. He came to understand the underlying foundation of Bukido® is rooted in principle, not technique. These principles were external by definition and carried with them power of truth. From there he was hooked. Over the next few years he drove 5 hours from San Jose to Los Angeles repeatedly to experience four F.I.S.T. Level I’s, a F.I.S.T. Level II, two C.A.T.T. courses, a Lion Heart 4-day intensive, and to assist in the B.L.A.S.T. Seminar. He shared his enthusiasm with friends and family, driving them to Los Angeles to participate in Bukido® courses. Kendall’s training eventually lead to “The Forge,” a 72-hour day and night instructor-training course. He is the 2nd individual awarded the Senior Instructor certification.
“What I’ve learned is that anyone can get a belt, degree or certificate and learn great techniques for specific situations. Life has taught me that specifics of situations change with every choice or non-choice that I make. Bukido® has taught me how to be present to my choices and responsibilities in being a cause that effects a positive outcome in all situations… not an effect that was caused. It is a constant work in progress that I am passionate about sharing and learning with others.”
Kendall lives in San Jose and enjoys spending his free time with his 10-year-old son.
