Master Ray Torres, a participant of the original YOU MAN OGs Fountain of Youth martial arts event, shares his early inspiration, training experiences with his twin brother under their father’s guidance, and reflects on the challenges and community environment during his martial arts journey in New Jersey. This interview highlights his dedication and the significance of martial arts in his life.
In the midst of a snowstorm in New Jersey, an insightful interview took place with Master Ray Torres, one of the Twin Black Dragons and a participant of the original YOU MAN OGs Fountain of Youth martial arts event. This interview is part of a series featuring past and future participants of the YOU MAN OGs, a national tour celebrating martial arts and its practitioners.
The YOU MAN OGs Fountain of Youth National Tour is a martial arts event that brings together competitors from various backgrounds. The regional launch for 2025 is scheduled for February 28th. The original event, which Master Ray Torres and his twin brother participated in, took place on September 20th, 2019, marking a significant milestone in the martial arts community.
Master Ray Torres began his martial arts journey at a very young age, inspired primarily by his father, who was also an instructor. He recalls starting around the age of four, with memories of training at the YMCA in Asbury Park, New Jersey. His father’s role as an instructor was pivotal, and although the training was somewhat encouraged by his mother and could be seen as a forced activity, it laid the foundation for his lifelong dedication to martial arts.
Ray and his twin brother were among the first students in their area during the early 1980s. At that time, Asbury Park and nearby Long Branch were experiencing high crime rates, and the community was in need of positive outlets for youth. Their father’s decision to teach martial arts was not only about physical training but also about providing discipline and structure in a challenging environment.
The interview briefly touches on the social context of the time, clarifying that the riots in the area occurred after their initial training period. Despite the difficulties, the martial arts classes offered a safe space and a constructive activity for many young people in the community.
The interview was conducted with enthusiasm, capturing the essence of Master Ray Torres’s passion for martial arts. Although some parts of the conversation were interrupted or overlapped due to scheduling and weather challenges, the core message remained clear: martial arts has been a significant and positive influence in his life.
Master Ray Torres’s story is a testament to the power of martial arts as a tool for personal growth, community engagement, and resilience. His journey from a young boy training under his father’s guidance to becoming a respected master and participant in the YOU MAN OGs Fountain of Youth highlights the enduring impact of martial arts on individuals and communities alike.
This interview adds to the rich tapestry of stories from the YOU MAN OGs series, celebrating the dedication and spirit of martial artists across the nation.
