On January 12th 2023, Mark Reding had the extreme honor to be promoted to 9th degree black belt in American Kenpo Karate under his instructor of 30 years, Tim Bulot.

“30 years ago I started the journey to learn American Kenpo Karate. I was fortunate that I met Tim Bulot Milena and he has been my mentor and guide since I was 15 years old in the art. He is the only Kenpo instructor I have ever had. Today he awarded me as well as some of my close friends to the rank of 9th degree black belt in American kenpo karate. It represents a lifetime of learning the art and teaching it. I never set out in any of the arts I practice to achieve a rank. Honestly I never think of rank. I just want to learn. And I want my students to see that to this day I never stop learning and growing. Also to my kids who I hope read this, that anything you want in life is possible if you work hard, surround yourself with good people , and love what you do. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this chapter in my martial art life and I hope I’m around to pass it on for many more years to come.” – Mark Reding