West Seneca resident and internationally respected Filipino martial arts instructor Datu Tim Hartman has been featured on the August cover of Arnis Magazine, one of the Philippines’ leading publications dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Filipino martial arts.
For Hartman, the recognition is more than a personal milestone — it’s an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the community he proudly calls home.
“I’ve had the privilege of teaching throughout 18 countries and 28 U.S. states, but West Seneca has always been home,” said Hartman. “Everywhere I travel, I represent not only the Filipino martial arts, but also our community. To be recognized by a publication from the Philippines is an incredible honor.”
Hartman began training in Filipino martial arts in 1985 under the late Professor Remy A. Presas, founder of Modern Arnis. Today, he serves as the head of the World Modern Arnis Alliance and is the owner and chief instructor of Horizon Martial Arts, headquartered in West Seneca.
Over four decades, Hartman has dedicated his career to preserving and promoting Filipino martial arts through seminars, instructor development, international travel and community outreach. His students and instructors can now be found throughout the United States and around the world.
“This recognition belongs to everyone who has been part of this journey,” Hartman said. “It honors my teacher, Professor Remy A. Presas, the art of Modern Arnis, my Filipino heritage, my students, and the West Seneca community that has supported me for so many years.”
The cover of Arnis Magazine features the quote: “Sometimes the strongest man in the room is simply the one who refuses to give up.”
Hartman says those words reflect the perseverance that has guided his career and his mission to leave the Filipino martial arts stronger for the next generation.
Beyond his work in martial arts, Hartman is active in the local community, serving on the board of the West Seneca Chamber of Commerce where he helps promote local businesses, community events and economic growth.
He plans to meet with the Arnis Magazine staff during his next visit to the Philippines and remains committed to serving as an ambassador for Filipino martial arts while proudly representing West Seneca on the international stage.
For more information about Horizon Martial Arts and the World Modern Arnis Alliance, visit www.wmarnis.com.
