David M. Grago grew up in Central New York where he began his martial arts studies in Kodakan Judo at the age of 12.

David M. Grago, a dedicated martial artist, began his journey in central New York, where he first trained in Kodokan Judo at just 12 years old. By the age of 13, he immersed himself in the Chinese boxing art of Southern Shaolin Chuan Ch'uang Pai under the mentorship of Sam (Iron Tiger) Wing. In May of 1970, Grago made a significant mark by establishing the first Chinese martial arts school in central New York. His academic pursuits led him to Walsh University in North Canton, Ohio, where he further honed his skills in Shaolin Kung Fu with esteemed instructors Bruce Ledger and James Cook. While at Walsh, he successfully launched the university's first martial arts club, attracting over 100 enthusiastic participants, demonstrating his commitment to sharing and promoting martial arts. Grago's journey reflects his passion and dedication to the art of Kung Fu.

During this timeframe, Grago continued his advanced instruction in Chinese martial arts, a lifelong passion. He trained under various masters, including Norman Pedelahore, who specialized in the Lung Shou Pai or Dragon Claw family style, and Mok Poi On, known for Pao Fa Lien Wing Chun. David Wei Kash taught him the techniques of Emperor's Shaolin Temple Boxing, while WL John Ng, a former coach of the Peking Wu Shu team, imparted knowledge in Wing Chun and Ng family style. Additionally, Andrew Tamper, associated with Yee Chong Mu Gwan International, contributed to Grago's diverse training. Currently, Grago has taken on the U.S. leadership role of one of the most intricate internal Kung Fu styles under the late Ngoc An, a patriarch formerly from South Vietnam, now based in Moscow, Russia..

In the early 1980s, Grago embarked on a significant journey in martial arts when he received permission from Leung Ting, a prominent figure in the Ving Tsun Kuen lineage derived from Ip Man Wing Chun. This pivotal moment allowed Grago to develop his unique art under the esteemed auspices of the Hong Kong International Chinese Martial Arts Federation. Leung Ting played a crucial role by personally introducing Grago to Grandmaster Mok Poi On, thereby facilitating his advanced study in a style of Wing Chun that diverged from the traditional Ip Man teachings. This opportunity not only marked a new chapter in Grago's martial arts career but also contributed to the evolution of Wing Chun as he explored its diverse expressions and techniques.

Grago established the Combined Wing Chun Association, which was subsequently recognized as a member of the Chinese Kuoshu Worldwide Promotion Association by the esteemed Chen Shou-shan, the president of Kuoshu Worldwide in Taipei, Taiwan. Grago's ICBA Worldwide organization has earned recognition from various prestigious entities, including the Kuoshu Association of the Republic of China under President Chen Shou-shan, and the Hawaii Martial Arts International Society led by Professor Jaime Abregana and Great-Grandmaster Ming Lum. Additionally, his contributions are acknowledged by the World Congress of Amateur Athletes - Team USA Martial Arts with GM HL Mayle, the American Karate Black Belt Association under GM James Toney, and the World Independent Chinese Martial Arts Federation headed by Klaus Schumaker. This extensive recognition underscores Grago's significant impact on the martial arts community globally.

In the early 1980s, Grago embarked on a significant journey in martial arts when he received permission from Leung Ting, a prominent figure in the Ving Tsun Kuen lineage derived from Ip Man Wing Chun. This pivotal moment allowed Grago to develop his unique art under the esteemed auspices of the Hong Kong International Chinese Martial Arts Federation. Leung Ting played a crucial role by personally introducing Grago to Grandmaster Mok Poi On, thereby facilitating his advanced study in a style of Wing Chun that diverged from the traditional Ip Man teachings. This opportunity not only marked a new chapter in Grago's martial arts career but also contributed to the evolution of Wing Chun as he explored its diverse expressions and techniques.

From 2002 to 2013, he distinguished himself as a prominent figure in martial arts, competing in prestigious events such as the America's Cup International Meet in Caracas, Venezuela. As both the US team coach and a dedicated member of the team, he showcased his exceptional skills at multiple world championships held in Cancun, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. His commitment and expertise in the grandmaster division were evident as he consistently secured gold medals in both grandmaster fighting and forms. His achievements not only highlight his personal dedication but also reflect his ability to lead and inspire others in the sport. Through his participation and success, he has left an indelible mark on the martial arts community.

In November of 2024, Grandmaster Grago received the highly coveted PKA Joe Lewis Eternal Warrior Award.