About Us

Gabriel Harrington is a distinguished martial artist at the Lotus Self Defense Academy of Spokane. Beginning his training in 1986 under his father, Roy Harrington, Gabriel has dedicated his life to the art, achieving significant milestones throughout his journey.

In 2003, Gabriel received his 3rd Degree Black Belt from Lotus Founder Ajarn Preecha Mahachanavong during his stay in Thailand. His time in Thailand was pivotal, as it deepened his martial arts expertise and connection to the roots of Lotus Self-Defense.

In 2006, Gabriel was honored by Senior Grandmaster Tony Lasit, who was Preecha’s instructor in Thailand before the formation of Lotus and served as the Head Instructor for all of Kajukenbo prior to his passing in 2020. This recognition was a testament to Gabriel's dedication and contributions to the martial arts community.

Gabriel earned the rank of 4th Degree Black Belt in 2016, a recognition of his teaching excellence and continued training. His commitment to the art was further solidified in 2024 when he was promoted to 5th Degree Black Belt after taking over the Spokane Lotus program and becoming its head instructor. Under his leadership, the youth and adult programs at the academy have reached new heights.

In addition to his accomplishments within Lotus Self-Defense, Gabriel has earned several prestigious certifications. He received his CSSD - Combat Arnis and Modular Knife Instructor certification under Grand Master Bram Frank in 2007. In 2013, he earned his Lakan (Black Belt) in CSSD Combat Arnis under Grand Master Bram Frank, followed by his instructor certificate in CSSD Crimpt Street Combat in 2014.

Gabriel's martial arts journey is enriched by his competitive kickboxing background and his extensive involvement in various martial arts events and tournaments across the Northwest. His artistic endeavors, such as creating elemental light sculptures, reflect his deep connection to recovery, healing, and martial arts training.

Notable Achievements:

• Began martial arts training in 1986 under his father, Roy Harrington.
• Received 1st Degree Black Belt in February 1998.
• Competed as a full-contact kickboxer from 1999 to 2003.
• Promoted to 2nd Degree Black Belt in 2001 for continued involvement and teaching.
• Traveled to Thailand in 2003 to enhance martial arts skills under Ajarn Preecha Mahachanavong and received his 3rd Degree Black Belt.
• Honored by Senior Grandmaster Tony Lasit in 2006.
• Received CSSD - Combat Arnis and Modular Knife Instructor certification under Grand Master Bram Frank in 2007.
• Earned Lakan (Black Belt) in CSSD Combat Arnis in 2013 under Grand Master Bram Frank.
• Received instructor certification in CSSD Crimpt Street Combat in 2014.
• Promoted to 4th Degree Black Belt in 2016 for his teaching and continued training.
• Promoted to 5th Degree Black Belt in 2024 after taking over the Spokane Lotus program.
• Continues to grow the youth class at Lotus Self Defense Academy.
• Deeply involved in teaching and training at his father's school and with the local school district.
• Extensive involvement in various Lotus events and tournaments in the Northwest.
• Artist creating elemental light sculptures reflecting his recovery, healing, and martial arts training.