Gary began his karate journey in 1968 at the age of 8, under the instruction of his first Sensi, Joseph Bonacci. Achieving his black belt in 1977, Gary has since trained extensively in both Japan and Europe. He holds an 8th degree black belt in Shotokan Karate and a 7th degree black belt in Matsumura Seito Shorinryu. Additionally, he is a Shidoin in Matayoshi Kobudo, and a 1st degree black belt in Kwan Mu Kan Zendokai.

With 56 years of continuous training, Gary has shared his expertise by teaching karate and self-defense seminars across the country. He is also affiliated with Adaptive Martial Arts, an organization dedicated to training individuals with mental and physical disabilities.