Rick Young's martial arts journey commenced in 1975 training under Shaun Shanley laying the foundation for an illustrious career defined by dedication and a search for excellence. His early years were marked by the practice of Judo and boxing, setting the stage for a lifelong pursuit of mastery in various combative disciplines.
In 1976, Rick embarked on a transformative path as he delved into Wado Ryu Karate under the tutelage of the great Sensei Hamish Adam. The following years unfolded with significant encounters that shaped his martial arts trajectory. In 1979, a pivotal moment occurred when he met Dan Inosanto in London, England, marking the beginning of his immersion into Jeet Kune Do and The Filipino Martial Arts.
The year 1984 marked a significant milestone as Rick journeyed to Los Angeles to train under the guidance of Guro Inosanto, a pivotal experience that would shape his expertise and knowledge in martial arts. By 1987, Rick's dedication and skill were recognized as he attained his Apprentice instructorship under the esteemed Guro.
In 1988, Rick expanded his horizons by delving into Western boxing, representing Scotland with distinction and clinching the East of Scotland championship. The year 1989 brought a new dimension to his training journey as he embraced Brazilian Jiu Jitsu while training in Los Angeles, training with legendary figures like Royce Gracie and other members of the Gracie family.
Rick's passion for martial arts led him to the world-famous Edinburgh club in 1990, where he immersed himself in Judo, eventually training in full-time squad sessions until its closure in 2004. The year 1993 marked a significant milestone as he became the first individual outside the United States to receive a Full instructorship in Jeet Kune Do / Jun Fan Gung Fu and The Filipino Martial Arts, a testament to his expertise and dedication.
Rick's pursuit of excellence saw him travel extensively to train with Guro Inosanto, making nearly 60 trips to the USA to deepen his knowledge and skills under the guidance of his mentor. His accomplishments continued to flourish, with highlights including attaining his Judo Black belt in 1995 and securing the British Brazilian Jiu Jitsu championship in 1999.
The years that followed included triumphs at the European championship in 2001 and a world Masters title in Brazil as a purple belt in 2003. Rick's dedication and commitment were further acknowledged in 2005 when he received his Black Belt from Mestre Mauricio Gomes. To date Rick has competed in nine world masters finals, winning Gold in seven of them, five at the Black Belt level. He has competed in Brazil, the USA, mainland UK and all over Europe.
In 2008 Rick was awarded the Inosanto Academy Lifetime Achievement award from Guro Inosanto for his dedication to training and teaching Jeet Kune Do and the Filipino Martial arts.
In 2019, Rick's journey continued with the prestigious award of a 4th degree Black Belt in BJJ by Mestre Mauricio Gomes, a testament to his unwavering dedication and skill in the discipline. Presently, Rick Young continues to inspire and educate as he trains and teaches in his hometown of Edinburgh, Scotland, where he and his wife Fabiana run a thriving full-time martial arts academy, shaping the next generation of martial artists with his expertise and passion for the art.
