Dave started his karate training in 1972.  He was promoted to Shodan (1st Degree Black Belt) August 14, 1974 becoming the first person to be promoted to black belt by Tim Golby. 

Dave Hofer is one of the original bare knuckle fighters.  He won grand champion bare knuckle in one of the largest national tournaments in the U.S. 

Dave won trophies in all 36 tournaments he competed.  Dave also was the All City Full Contact Karate Champion.

Dave also has the honor of wearing the famous Checkered Gi top. In 1972 Dave was honored by Joe Lewis, Al Tracy and Tim Golby in a special banquet where he was presented with the Checkered Gi.

As a Master Instructor Dave trains the other instructors and is the trainer of Tracy's Karate Tournament Team.  Dave is considered by many to be one of the great free sparring minds in the country.