Unofficially began studying self-defense at 3 years old.  Started studying karate formally at Master Fred Richmond's class at Omni Health Club in Schererville, Indiana during the Christmas school break of 2001.  Ranked 1st in sparring nationally in the novice division with the American Karate Association at the AKA Banquet in October for the year of 2002.  Also placed fourth in forms.  Justin has been wrestling for his high school team for 3 years.  He feels that his wresting has helped in his pursuit of knowledge within the martial arts.

  Due to a broken leg while wrestling in January 2003 and due to a near fatal car accident in December 2003, he had taken time off from competing in tournaments.  He expects to compete in the intermediate division for the 2004 season.

"Even nice guys hit really, really hard."
- Justin Blancas