Marc McGowan
5th Degree Black Belt Aiki Ninjutsu/2nd Degree To-Shin Do/1st Degree Kumdo
I am rapidly approaching my 35th year as an active martial artist, and it has been an interesting journey to say the least. Unlike most of my Warrior’s Edge compatriots, I followed more of a fighter’s path when it came to martial arts, but I am forever grateful because it still led me here. I am originally from Aurora, IL, the 2nd of 3 children and I have all the classical traits of being a middle child. Sadly, I was also born partially deaf, and as such my speech was delayed. My hearing was eventually restored through surgery, but at the time, my parents could not afford to send me to a speech pathologist, so even now, I really don’t talk all that well. Despite all that though, I still managed to earn 5 college degrees during my academic career.
I have been fortunate to hold a variety of different jobs during my professional career, ranging from a drug rehab counselor, to private investigator, to speechwriter. These jobs have allowed me to travel across the country and see interesting parts of the world, even if it hasn’t always been under the best circumstances. I also like to write, and I have been fortunate enough to have 5 books published. It is a big thrill for me to sign books at conventions and speak with fans. It makes a lot of the struggles worth it.
Martial arts can mirror life, insomuch that you will have moments of triumph, where you stand victorious with your hand raised high as everyone smiles… But with that comes those times where things don’t always go your way. Where despite giving it your all , you still may come up short. It hurts, believe me I know, but don’t give up! Don’t become frightened by the bite when in reality it is no harsher than the bark. Keep going, and I guarantee that you will make yourself proud.
